When you are new to chiropractic, or simply switching to a new chiropractor, you understandably want to make sure that you are getting the best care available. To this end, you want to make sure that your chiropractor follows evidence-based medicine, has no red flags, and is giving you the care you need.
However, it can be hard to know what questions to ask your chiropractor so that you can make an informed choice about them.
As a practicing chiropractor in the Chesapeake region of Virginia for more than 20 years, I know how to tell whether a chiropractor is going to be a good fit for a patient. In this article, I will share questions you can ask your chiropractor to decide if they are right for you.
Question 1: What are your qualifications?
All chiropractors must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from a school that has been accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education. In addition, chiropractors must be licensed by the state(s) in which they practice. Some chiropractors go above and beyond, completing specialty training including fellowships. These specialties can give the chiropractor additional knowledge to competently treat your condition.
I’ll use myself as an example: beyond my D.C. degree from Palmer College, I have earned credentials in MRI spine interpretation, spinal biomechanical engineering, and orthopedic. Further, I have completed a fellowship in Spinal Biomechanics and Trauma recognized through SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine. I am also a board certified NUCCA chiropractor.
Question 2: Do you commonly treat my condition?
Because different chiropractors have different specialties, some may be more experienced at treating some conditions than others. Finding a chiropractor who has extensive experience in your condition is important because they are more likely to have the knowledge required to help you heal. Further, they are more likely to be able to recognize complications that may require referral to another provider.
Never be afraid to ask your chiropractor about their experience: your chiropractor should be proud to share this information with you and should have nothing to hide.
At Precision Spinal Care, I am always honest about my experience with my patients’ health conditions. I work closely with other spine specialists and have no hesitation about referring you to another provider if I feel it is in your best interest. Your health is my priority.
Question 3: How can chiropractic care help me?
It is vital that your chiropractor works with you to set goals and expectations for your condition. While some conditions can be cured entirely, others may be chronic conditions that can be eased with chiropractic care. Your chiropractor should be able to clearly explain how chiropractic can help you, and what both the benefits and limitations of treatment are for your condition.
At Precision Spinal Care, I devote your first visit to an assessment of your condition. This helps me fully understand your health status and needs. After your assessment, I will explain my findings in detail and take the time to patiently answer any questions you have about your condition and how chiropractic can help.
Question 4: What techniques do you use?
Every chiropractor performs adjustments differently, and it’s important to know what kind of techniques your chiropractor uses. At Precision Spinal Care, I focus on providing gentle NUCCA chiropractic, instead of the twist-and-pop chiropractic that some people expect at first.
Question 5: What can I do to optimize my results?
The time you spend in a chiropractor’s office is just one part of your overall care plan. A good chiropractor will have a customized treatment plan for you: this may include lifestyle modifications, nutrition, posture, ergonomics, exercises, and stretching. Your chiropractor should be willing to explain their recommendations to you in detail so that you understand what you can be doing to optimize your results even when you are not in the chiropractor’s office.
At Precision Spinal Care, I have a custom care plan for all of my patients. I make sure to fully explain everything that you can be doing at home to best treat your medical condition. Because I regularly reassess you for progress in your recovery, I will let you know right away if your care plan changes. I encourage my patients to let me know whenever they have questions about their care plan so that we can get the best results possible.
Choosing The Right Chiropractor at Precision Spinal Care
At Precision Spinal Care, I believe strongly in making sure that you have all the information you need to make a well-informed choice about chiropractic care.
As a certified NUCCA chiropractor and spine management physician, I work closely with you to optimize your health. I base all my treatment plans on the most recent clinical evidence and studies about chiropractic care. To accomplish your care goals, during your first visit, I will do a thorough examination. Afterward, I will go over my evaluation with you in detail. I will discuss my treatment strategy with you. I will take the time to answer all your questions and make sure you are comfortable with the facts about chiropractic care.
Together, we will set reasonable expectations and milestones. We will also put together a treatment plan that meets your care needs. I will reevaluate you to make sure you are meeting your goals.
My experience and expertise in spinal biomechanics allow me to competently and safely address your back issues. I am a trauma and hospital-qualified spine management physician. I have credentials in MRI spine interpretation, spinal biomechanical engineering, and orthopedic testing through the Academy of Chiropractic. I am also a fellow in Spinal Biomechanics and Trauma which is recognized through the SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine.
If I find that chiropractic care is not the best solution to suit your needs, I will recommend the type of specialist who is most appropriate for you.
We understand that you need to explore all your options when you look for expert treatment. At Precision Spinal Care, we are happy to help you determine the best way to address your specific needs and discuss all your options.
Call our office at (757) 382-5555 to speak to the doctor or set up a consultation. You can also set up an appointment through our webpage.
