Chiropractic

Chiropractors provide care for patients of all ages, who present with a range of acute and chronic conditions. As well as advice about self-help, exercise, diet and lifestyle, chiropractors often provide support for pain management, sports injuries and active rehabilitation.

Chiropractic is a fast-growing independent health care profession in the United Kingdom and it is regulated by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC).

Chiropractic is concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal manipulation or adjustment (World Federation of Chiropractic, 1999).

Chiropractors are regulated primary care practitioners, meaning that all chiropractors should be registered with the General Chiropractic Council (www.gcc-uk.org). As such there are guidelines to what we can treat. Many musculoskeletal complaints have been shown to improve with chiropractic care, including those that may not necessarily be associated with chiropractic. If you are unsure and want to discuss your complaint, you should call us for some advice.

Complaint History

When you first meet your Chiropractor he/she will ask you questions about the history of your pain or complaint, where you have the symptoms and when they are at their worst. They will also ask you about your past health history. This will help your Chiropractor decide what he/she feels is the most effective type of care he/she can provide for you.

Physical examination

Once your complaint history is complete, your Chiropractor will examine you to confirm any early ideas about your problem. The examination will concentrate on your musculoskeletal system (nerves, muscles and joints), but it may also be necessary to check other systems such as your heart, lungs and abdomen to rule out other causes; this thorough check up is a normal procedure in a Chiropractor’s clinic. If your Chiropractor feels it is appropriate you will be referred to your GP.

Gowns are made available for you to wear for the examination as well as for any following treatments. If, for religious or other reasons, you are unable to undress this should be discussed with the reception staff, and/or the Chiropractor before your appointment.

After the initial consultation and examination, your Chiropractor may offer you treatment immediately. However, it may be delayed for a day or two if your Chiropractor needs to take or view X-rays or obtain further information from your GP (for example blood test results) and, where appropriate, refer you for an MRI/CT scan. Any imaging will only be requested where clinically justified, in line with current legislation and guidelines. If your Chiropractor diagnoses a problem that will not benefit from Chiropractic treatment, you will be referred elsewhere without delay.

Report of Findings

At the conclusion of your consultation and case history, your Chiropractor will explain in clear, simple language exactly what is wrong, how it is to be treated and what you should expect when you receive your first adjustment. He/she will also outline approximately how many treatments you may require. The nature and duration of the complaint will have a bearing on this estimation. Blood, urine and other laboratory tests are sometimes required and these will be discussed with you at the time. Chiropractors are fully trained to take and read X-rays and may use these in conjunction with the other tests to help reach an accurate and safe diagnosis. At this point, your Chiropractor will also tell you of any likelihood of a recurrence of your problem, and the possible need for ongoing supportive care. This is not unusual for patients who have had serious injuries, as well as those who have long-term problems due to wear and tear to the joints.

Treatment

Chiropractors are concerned with the framework of bones and muscles that support the body (the ‘musculoskeletal system’). Some problems of the musculoskeletal system can be caused by accidents, stress, lack of exercise, poor posture, illness and everyday wear and tear. These problems may cause pressure on the nerves in the body. Depending on your condition, the chiropractor may manipulate parts of your spine or joints and give you advice on exercise, self-help, diet and lifestyle. At Alevia we also offer rehabilitation programmes with our trained therapist. Manipulation involves precisely handling or moving joints, or parts of the spine.

If you would like to make an appointment or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.