1. What types of conditions do we treat? At Sikeston Chiropractic, we treat patients for many different reasons. Commonly, people think of a chiropractor to treat back pain and neck pain. While we do treat those problems, patients also come to us for help with sciatica, pinched nerves, bulging/herniated discs, headaches, and degenerative conditions like arthritis. Many patients simply feel better all around from being adjusted, and consider chiropractic a pillar of their well being and self-care.
2. What can I expect at during my first chiropractic appointment? The initial consultation with Dr. Taylor begins with a conversation. We will talk about your health history, any current symptoms you may be experiencing and how they impact your daily living, and your expectations from our office. Next, we will move on to a physical assessment. This may include range of motion testing, simple orthopedic/neurologic tests, and possibly X-rays (which we are able to perform in our office.) Once we have a full picture of your current situation, we will discuss treatment options, such as chiropractic adjustments and physiotherapy. If we determine that you are a good candidate for chiropractic, we will perform an adjustment on the first visit.
3. What methods does Dr. Taylor uses to adjust his patients? Some people are surprised to learn that there are many different methods or techniques that different chiropractors use to treat their patients. It is worth asking, especially if you have a history of going to other chiropractors, just so we are both on the same page with our expectations. Dr. Taylor uses primarily diversified technique with his patients. This is what people typically think of when they think of a chiropractor, where it is common to hear joints pop like cracking your knuckles. He also uses Flexion Distraction (a type of traction) and, in some cases, Thompson drops. He also sometimes use therapies such as ice, heat, electronic muscle stimulation, and therapeutic ultrasound.
4. Is it painful to be adjusted by a chiropractor? Most of the time, being adjusted is not painful at all. Most patients feel immediate relief after an adjustment. However, there can be a little soreness sometimes. This is most common when you are a new patient and your body isn't accustomed to being adjusted. If there is soreness, it is typically mild and resolves quickly. It should be mentioned that once in a while, a patient's condition is so severe that any little touch or movement is excruciating. In those rare instances, adjusting would be painful and may not be the best approach. To avoid unnecessary discomfort, we may decide it is best not to perform some of the normal aspects of a treatment, or even discuss referral to a medical doctor for co-treatment.