The chiropractic profession is one with a large variety of options. These decisions can make it very difficult to choose the best chiropractor to meet your needs.
This task is exceptionally challenging because chiropractic treatment is a physical procedure, you must give consideration to the personality and rapport of the physician and your compatibility with their techniques.
Here are a few questions to ask when looking for a chiropractor and a few red flags that let you know who to avoid.
What is a “Good” Chiropractor? How Can You Find One?
In order to find the chiropractor that is best suited for you and your needs, there are a few steps you can take. Get a good recommendation from your primary care physician, physical therapist or other trusted health professional. Ask them what their recommendations are and who they view as competent and trustworthy, or who they would recommend to a friend or family member.
You can also ask friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors for recommendations. But make sure to take their advice with caution, as the perfect chiropractor for someone else may not meet your needs. It is important to choose a chiropractor who meets your individual needs.
If you get the same recommendation from different sources, that chiropractic is likely a trustworthy candidate.
Before starting treatment, it is usually best to conduct a telephone interview or request an in-office consultation to learn more about the chiropractor, the clinic, and the techniques used. Often the treating chiropractor will request a personal consultation to discuss these details.
For most people, it is important to feel comfortable with the chiropractor and the clinic to have an overall positive treatment experience. Your level of comfort has to do mainly with your personal preferences, anything from the techniques used to the location of the office and the overall feel of the practice.
There are many questions to consider:
- Is the chiropractor friendly and courteous?
- Does you feel comfortable talking with the chiropractor?
- Does the chiropractor fully answer all questions asked?
- Does the doctor listen to the patient’s complete explanation of symptoms and treatment concerns/preferences?
- How many years has the chiropractor been in practice?
- Does the chiropractor have a specific undergraduate or post-graduate specialty?
Although not necessary, some chiropractors pursue post-graduate programs in various specialties, such as orthopedics, sports medicine, rehabilitation, neurology, nutrition.
You may also want to research if there are any disciplinary actions against the chiropractor. This information is available from each state’s Chiropractic Regulation & Licensing Board, which can usually be found on the state’s website.
Do not feel like you must be treated by the first chiropractor you see, as many people interview several chiropractors before finding one best suited for their needs.
When you find the chiropractor that best meets your needs, your life and health will be significantly improved. Please contact Anderson Integrated Health Center today for more information.
