What To Expect: Chiropractic

What to Expect at Your Chiropractic Consultation

Many people are nervous about their first chiropractic visit and others have been treated by many chiropractors and want to know how our office and care is different.

Here are some points that may help in your search for the best fit for you:

• It is our intent to help each patient on their individual path to wellness by using the method that is the best suited to that patient and their particular health challenges. We strive to keep the treatments as comfortable for each patient as possible.

• There are many ways to practice chiropractic and Dr. Thompson has chosen to use the gentlest methods that will make the necessary changes in the musculoskeletal structures (bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves) involved. She also uses a system of indicators on the body to tell her what needs to be treated and when the treatment is done. This technique (Sacro Occipital Technique – SOT) is a very thorough, gentle and individualized method of chiropractic.

• Dr. Thompson has found that to help people get well and stay that way, it is important to address not only spinal alignment, which is the cornerstone of chiropractic, but also to address other lifestyle factor s that are heavily influencing the health issues at hand. Dr. Thompson will usually give recommendations in the areas of diet, nutritional supplementation, exercise, work habits, sleep habits, spinal supports and sometimes request imaging or lab tests.

• We encourage everyone to seek the type of healthcare treatment that they need and do not wish to interfere with any specific treatment prescribed or recommended by another healthcare professional. However, some forms of treatment may interfere with the functioning of the nervous system and the chiropractor’s ability to diagnose and evaluate necessary chiropractic treatment. These may include drugs such as pain relievers, muscle relaxers, anti-inflammatory and mood-altering medications.

• Dr. Thompson finds that it is essential to resolve problems affecting all joints of the body in addition to the spinal joints. This includes the feet, knees, hips, wrists, elbows and shoulders. She also addresses cranial and TMJ imbalances. Knowing it is vitally important to address the muscular and ligamentous problems affecting the spine and other joints of the body, Dr. Thompson also advises patients when additional soft tissue work by a qualified therapist is necessary.

• True, lasting wellness is a body-mind-spirit endeavor and we are committed to assisting our patients in addressing all aspects of their health.