Your friends have been praising chiropractic care for years, and now you're ready to find out first-hand what it is all about. You've scheduled your adjustment, but now you have a few questions. With any luck, you'll find the answers below.
Will the adjustment hurt?
This is perhaps the biggest question people have before seeing the chiropractor. Especially if you are currently dealing with back pain, the idea of having someone press on your back might make you cringe. But rest assured, spinal adjustments are not painful. In fact, most people feel a profound sense of relief the moment their spine is adjusted. You might hear a popping noise when your chiropractor adjusts certain joints, but this is just like the noises your knuckles make when you crack them, or like the noises your knees might make when you bend over — it's harmless.
Will you have to take your clothes off?
No. You can remain dressed during your chiropractic appointment. If you're wearing a heavy sweater or thick sweatshirt, your chiropractor will likely ask you to take that off. Wear a thinner t-shirt or polo shirt, though, and your chiropractor should have no trouble adjusting you through your clothing.
How long will the adjustment take?
The average chiropractic appointment takes about 15 minutes. The first time you visit, you might be there a little longer as your chiropractor will want to collect a medical history, talk to you about what's ailing you, and talk you through what they are doing. If you plan on being at the chiropractor for a half hour the first time, that should give you enough time.
Are there any side effects to worry about?
Nope! Some people do feel a little sore the day after their adjustment. This is more likely if you are dealing with severe back pain due to a herniated disc or another injury. The soreness is just your muscles adjusting to the new position of your vertebrae. You can take a dose of ibuprofen if needed, but this is not usually necessary. There are no other side effects to worry about; chiropractic care is very safe and has a long track record of success.
Hopefully, all of your burning questions about chiropractic adjustments have now been answered. If you have additional questions, then don't hesitate to ask the chiropractor. Most assume you will have some questions at your first appointment and allow time for this.
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