How to Find a Chiropractor

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Are you in need of a chiropractor? If so, you’re not alone. Chiropractors treat more than 35 million Americans every year.

The chiropractic technique is very unique. They improve bodily function and relieve pain by working with your body’s own structure. Not only that, but chiropractors have individual practice philosophies to secure relationships with clients.

Because of all of these aspects combined, it’s important to find a chiropractor who will work with your unique needs. Read this guide and know how to find a chiropractor.

Start With a Chiropractic Consultation

You’ll be surprised how many chiropractors offer consultations and are available for phone calls. These consultations may also be free. Take advantage of this and get to know the chiropractor and their clinic.

While a personal consultation will eventually be necessary, you can ask some basic questions over the phone first. These questions can center around the clinic, the chiropractor’s training, and the techniques that they use.

These consultations can help you gauge how you feel toward the chiropractor. Ask yourself these questions when choosing the best one:

Do you feel comfortable talking to them?
Is the chiropractor courteous and friendly?
Are they listening to you, your symptoms, and recommending treatment?
Are they answering your questions?
How many years of experience do they have?

It’s also helpful to ask if they have a specialty. Some chiropractors pursue specialties, such as sports medicine and orthopedics. It’s worth it to consider these specialties and see if they may work better for your needs.

While preferences boil down to every individual patient, it’s important to gauge how you feel when talking to the chiropractor.

Ask for Recommendations

If you’re not sure where to start your search, ask around for referrals. You’ll likely find recommendations from your physical therapist, primary care doctor, and/or spine specialist.

But make sure they don’t offer a professional recommendation. Instead, word the question like, “if a loved one needed chiropractic treatment , who would you recommend?” you must visit: Chiropractic in Tarpon Springs, Florida. While skill and technique are major aspects to consider, you’ll also want to ensure your chiropractor is trustworthy and competent.

With that being said, it’s also helpful to ask co-workers, friends, neighbors, and other loved ones for recommendations. You should also note if the same people, whether personal or professional connections, recommend the same chiropractor.

If all else fails, there are chiropractor referral services. Websites such as https://chiropractors.sg/ search for chiropractors in your area, making it easy to find the best professional for you.

Research

When finding a chiropractor, it’s a good idea to do some research. Start with reviews, both on the chiropractor’s website as well as third-party websites.

Complaints and disciplinary actions are major red flags. You can easily search a chiropractor’s name on your state’s licensing board to see if a chiropractor has had any complaints against them. It’s also worth it to use this source and check if the chiropractor’s education and licensing are legitimate.

Ask About Their Techniques

Chiropractic care comprises a myriad of techniques, such as spinal mobilization and manipulation. It’s a good idea to ask specific questions about the techniques they will use and what they recommend.

Some questions you can ask include:

Which techniques do you use and why?
Do you use your hands or an instrument for manipulation?
Are you experienced in treating my condition?
Do you use low-force adjustments or deeper adjustments?
How many years of experience and training do you have in these specific techniques?

It’s also worth it to write down the proposed treatment plan and the techniques they will be using. Conduct some research on your own to discover the effectiveness.

Gauging Your Treatment Plan

After your consultation, your chiropractor will recommend a treatment plan that comprises various techniques as well as treatments outside of the office (we will discuss this in the next section).

How do you know if their treatment plan is right for you? First, consider their goals. Chiropractors use various techniques to accomplish a goal for patients, which can be to enhance mobility, decrease pain, and prevent a recurrence.

You’ll also want to consider your schedule. Will you be visiting your chiropractor once every couple of weeks? What about several times a week? See if the frequency of your visits is ideal for your condition, symptoms, and your own lifestyle.

Consider any evaluations after your treatment. Many chiropractors require a post-treatment appointment to monitor your progress.

Treatment Outside of the Office

Chiropractic care extends beyond in-office visits. A great chiropractor will give you advice on treatments you can do at home and other lifestyle choices that can prevent future problems.

For example, many chiropractors will recommend ergonomic products that correlate with your condition. These can include belts to keep your spine straight, sitting in ergonomic chairs while working, and more.

It’s also common for chiropractors to recommend exercises. These usually include stretches and other simple exercises that patients can do at home. Teaching good posture practices and recommending a diet are other ways that chiropractors can enhance wellness.

Make sure that your chiropractor recommends these best practices that relate to your condition. If they sound like general advice, you may want to get a second opinion.

Red Flags to Look For

While knowing what to look for in a chiropractor is always useful, it’s also important to take note of any red flags. Keep these things in mind when looking for a chiropractor:

They make untrue claims (such as stating they can cure your condition)
They’re promoting a new technique that no other chiropractor uses/knows
They don’t mention any goals, endpoints, or even progress assessments
They recommend treatments that aren’t based on your condition (more of a red flag if they do this for other patients)

If you suspect this behavior from the chiropractor you’re considering, get a second opinion or find a new chiropractor.

Find a Chiropractor Today

When you find a chiropractor, you should ask them specific questions, seek referrals, and gauge your treatment plan. You should also identify any red flags that you may experience. By following these steps, you’ll find a chiropractor who will fit your needs.

Continue reading our blog for more how-to advice.