Your First Trip To A Chiropractor? Never Fear, Relief Is Near
If you have been experiencing back pain and you have been referred by your doctor to see a chiropractor, you may be a bit apprehensive about what to expect. Going to the chiropractor for the first time might be a scary experience, and you may be surprised at how good you feel after the appointment is over. Here is some information about what to expect at your first appointment in an attempt to relieve some of the fear you may have about seeing a chiropractor.
Take An Advance Tour
If you are really scared about a chiropractic appointment, taking a peek at the office and exam rooms in advance can be helpful. This will familiarize yourself with the rooms you will be visiting, making the day of the appointment less stressful. Call the office where you intend on going and ask for a small tour of the area before you have your appointment date made. Meeting with the chiropractor and staff members can also set your mind at ease for the upcoming appointment.
Ask Questions
Ask the chiropractor to explain to you in detail what your specific procedure entails and what results you will be able to expect. See if the particular procedure you are having will be painful at all, and ask the chiropractor for recommendations on how you can alleviate or avoid pain altogether. If you have reservations about having something done, you can always ask another chiropractor for a second opinion. Get your questions out in the open and answered before committing to any procedure that is to be done.
Appointment Day
Get a full night's sleep the night before your appointment. This will help you feel relaxed when you show up to have the procedure done. Eat a healthy breakfast and do some deep breathing or relaxation exercises in preparation for your visit. When you get to the office, have some reading material or another distraction available to keep your mind off of the visit while you wait. Many find it beneficial to bring along a friend to help pass the time.
When called in for the procedure, ask your doctor to explain each movement as they do it to your back and spine. Knowing what to expect as the procedure is done will greatly help in lessening anxiety. Visualize yourself on a beach, on vacation, or anywhere you feel comfortable instead of on a table in a doctor's office. This usually helps people relax their body instead of stiffening up when the doctor gets ready to do an adjustment. You may be delightfully surprised to find the entire procedure much more enjoyable than you originally thought.