Making the choice to seek chiropractic care can be a daunting one. While you might be suffering from neck and back pain and your family doctor has recommended that you see a chiropractor, the thought might make you nervous. It could be that you heard stories from friends or online about its actual effectiveness or you may worry that spinal manipulation could make your issues worse. Before you undergo your first treatment, there are a few questions you may want to ask your new chiropractor that may help set your mind at ease.
1. Is Chiropractic Care Safe?
This may be a major concern for you, especially if you have chronic pain and fear it may become worse with treatment. However, most types of chiropractic care are quite safe when they are performed by a qualified individual. Verifying your chiropractor’s credentials and reading reviews may give you a better idea of his or her experience and what kind of success others have had.
2. What Is Subluxation?
You may have heard the word subluxation as it relates to chiropractic care, but it is not as complicated as it might sound. Subluxation is a misalignment of the joints that can occur when a buildup of gases between the joints pushes them out of place. When certain manipulations are performed, these gases release, often with an audible cracking or popping sound. These noises are usually harmless and allow the chiropractor to gauge how well the treatment has worked.
3. How Long Does Treatment Take?
The duration of chiropractic care tends to vary from person to person and can depend on a variety of other factors that may include pain levels and the reason for the neck or spinal ailment. Some treatments may last for eight to 12 weeks, while others may be ongoing as part of an overall wellness plan. Your chiropractor will likely create and review a treatment plan that is right for you.
4. Will My Insurance Cover Treatment?
Not all insurance plans cover the cost of chiropractic care, while others require prior authorization from your general practitioner. Some plans offer limited coverage that requires a co-pay at the time of treatment. You may want to speak with your insurance company and the clinic’s reception staff about what kind of payment might be required if you plan to continue with sessions in the future.
Choosing to seek chiropractic care is a personal decision, and you may have many questions before you undergo your first treatment. Reach out to a Chiropractor, like the chiropractors at Mid-atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic to make an appointment or for further assistance.
