When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, I didn't know what I was going to do. After the devastation subsided, I decided to take a very standard, western approach to my healing. Although initial efforts were successful, my cancer recurred a few months later. I endured many additional months of treatment before I started focusing on myself. I decided it was time to incorporate complimentary alternative treatments into my healing regimen, including massage therapy. I can't even begin to tell you how much it changed my life. My healing became a process, instead of something I simply had to endure. I hope that the articles on my website can inspire you to stay open-minded about your own healthcare.
An estimated 100 million people in the United States of America currently live with chronic pain. In most cases, these individuals will take prescription medications to manage their pain. Although effective in some instances, painkillers have side effects that are dangerous and addicting. If you are currently living with chronic pain and prefer a safer, non-toxic treatment option, consider the benefits of chiropractic care. Here are a few things to know before your first visit to the chiropractor.
A Physical Is Required First
Whether you were referred by your regular physician or decided to seek care on your own, a physical evaluation will be required before receiving chiropractic treatment. Make sure to bring copies of your medical records to your first visit. Also, be prepared to undergo a series of x-rays and laboratory tests.
This medical evaluation is essential to determine the best plan of action to manage your chronic pain in a safe, effective manner.
You Should Prepare to Be Under Pressure
Your chiropractor wants to reduce or alleviate your chronic pain, without causing you further discomfort. However, the hands-on care will not be painful, but it will require placing you under physical pressure.
During an adjustment, the chiropractor will use their hands to firmly manipulate the spine into an aligned position. This will require placing pressure on your spine and neck to thrust it into a more comfortable position. Adjustments will not instantly cure your chronic pain, but ongoing treatments can reduce the physical and emotional stress of your condition.
Again, you should never feel pain during a spinal manipulation, but you should prepare yourself to feel a good amount of pressure.
Other Services Are Offered
Spinal manipulations and chiropractic adjustments may be the most common treatments, but you may benefit from a few other services offered by your chiropractors.
Massage therapy and hydrotherapy offer enormous relief for patients living with chronic pain. This gentle, yet firm kneading of muscles and joints or the use of hot/cold water improves blood circulation, which decreases inflammation and pain. In addition, massage and hydrotherapy are both proven to boost your brain's production of endorphins. These chemicals naturally improve your mood, which is imperative for patients living with the emotional stress associated with chronic pain.
Prescription medications may offer short-term relief of your chronic pain, but the side effects can be too dangerous to deal with for long periods of time. Chiropractic care offers a safer alternative for patients living with chronic pain. With this guide and the help of your physicians, you will understand what to expect at your first visit.
For more information, contact local professionals like North Pole Chiropractic.
Share11 January 2017