What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is a health care discipline that focuses on treating conditions brought on by problems with joints, ligaments, tendons, nerves and the spine.
Treatment involves gentle manipulative techniques designed to relieve pain, improve joint functionality and reduce muscle spasm.
Chiropractic care does not involve the use of drugs or surgery and, as it is a primary health-care profession, does not require referral from your doctor.
Chiropractors are trained to diagnose your problem and will refer you to other health-care professionals if that is what you need. The effectiveness of chiropractic treatment is supported by research and various UK government and medical bodies.
To find out more visit www.gcc-uk.org
What conditions can Chiropractic help?
- Back, Neck & Shoulder Pain
- Headaches Relating to Neck Pain
- Migraine Prevention
- Sciatica
- Minor Sports Injuries
Will Chiropractic treatment benefit my general health?
As Chiropractors, we believe that good health is as much about enjoying a positive sense of physical, emotional and mental well-being, as it is about being free from pain and disease. You’ll discover that small changes can make a big difference. When your body is well balanced it copes with the stresses of daily life more easily and is better equipped to deal with unexpected trauma.
What to expect form your first treatment?
The initial consultation lasts between 60- 90 minutes. This includes taking a full medical history and carrying out a physical examination. During their training chiropractors develop a detailed sense of touch, enabling them to feel for restrictions in movement within the joints in the body. When a restriction is found, adjustments are made using a series of Chiropractic techniques which your Chiropractor will discuss with you before going ahead with treatment.
Chiropractic training
Chiropractors train at University for between 4-5 years. After completing this degree, they register with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) who regulate the Chiropractic profession. The title Chiropractor is a legally-bound title that can only be used when registered with the GCC within human practice.
Post treatment advice
During a course of Chiropractic care, you can expect to feel physical changes as your body re-adjusts. By practising simple aftercare, you will help yourself to recover more quickly and maximise the benefits of your Chiropractic care.
How will I feel after treatment?
You may feel better straight away, or you might experience stiffness or tiredness, particularly after your first session. These effects should last no more than 48hrs and are signs that your body is responding well to treatment. Common side effects include: muscle stiffness or soreness, tiredness, headaches, emotional sensitivity including feeling tearful, dizziness and light headedness and changes in your menstrual cycle.
After each session, drink plenty of water and rest as much as possible. In the event that you feel dizzy or light-headed, avoid driving until you feel better. It is important that you talk to your Chiropractor if you feel worried about anything either during or after your treatment.
What can I do to help myself?
Your body needs 48 hrs to adjust to the changes that have been made so it is sensible to adhere to the following:
- Avoid strenuous exercise, housework, gardening, long distance journeys and visits to the gym.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
- Take lukewarm showers for 24hrs and avoid hot baths. A hot soak will soften muscles and ligaments, thus potentially undoing all your good work.
- Think about your balance. Avoid carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder or sitting with one leg crossed over the other.
- Follow any other specific advice that your Chiropractor has given you.
How many sessions will I need?
Most people find between 2-6 sessions is sufficient to address straightforward problems. Each follow up treatment is up to 30 mins. The number and frequency of treatments will depend on a number of factors including: age, extent of injury, duration of injury, general fitness, amount of stress you are under and posture.
The approximate number of sessions will be discussed with you prior to your treatment commencing. After an initial course of treatment, if the problem is still there, your Chiropractor will discuss further action or referrals to other healthcare providers. However, if your problem is resolved, we recommend having scheduled regular check-ups throughout the year to keep chronic conditions under control. This will all be discussed with you at the time.