Question 1

Is there any research evidence that proves chiropractic care works?

Accepted Answer

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) produces guidelines for health professionals, helping them provide the most effective care for their patients. NICE guidance is based upon evidence and is reviewed regularly. Low back pain is one of the most common reasons for visiting a chiropractor and the NICE Low Back Pain and Sciatica Guideline ‘NG59’ provides clear recommendations for managing low back pain with or without sciatica, which always includes exercise and may include manual therapy (spinal manipulation, mobilisation or soft tissue techniques such as massage) as part of a treatment package, with or without psychological therapy.Mobilisation and soft tissue techniques are performed by a wide variety of practitioners; whereas spinal manipulation is usually performed by chiropractors or osteopaths, and by doctors or physiotherapists who have undergone additional training in manipulation.

Question 2

Is chiropractic regulated?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is. The General Chiropractic Council (GCC) is the statutory body which regulates the chiropractic profession. All chiropractors have to be registered with the GCC to practice legally in the United Kingdom. The GCC is responsible for the overall regulation and development of the profession. It sets standards to make sure that chiropractors practice safely, that their education and training is thorough and that their behaviour is professional.It is illegal for anyone to call themselves a chiropractor unless they are registered with the GCC. You can search the register here to check that your chiropractor is registered.

Question 3

Are all patients treated in the same way?

Accepted Answer

No. Your treatment programme will be tailored to your specific needs.

Question 4

How long will it take to get better?

Accepted Answer

Your recovery is dependent on many factors – the problem, the length of time you have had it, your general health and your own commitment to any rehabilitative exercises and maintenance visits that your chiropractor may recommend.

Question 5

How often do I need to come for treatment?

Accepted Answer

All cases are assessed individually but it is likely that you will need to see the chiropractor more frequently in the beginning of your treatment and as your condition improves less so. In determining length and frequency of your treatment, your chiropractor will consider various factors: type and severity of your specific health problem, how long you have been experiencing symptoms, age, occupation, recreational activities and previous injuries, overall general health. It is important to keep your appointments, and make regular visits when necessary. Discuss this with your chiropractor, who will explain your treatment programme to you.

Question 6

What is the popping noise that sometimes is heard when a joint is manipulated?

Accepted Answer

When the two surfaces of a joint are moved rapidly, as happens in some chiropractic manipulations, there is a change of pressure within the joint space. This may sometimes cause a bubble of gas to ‘pop’ – but this sound is not significant and does not hurt.

Question 7

Do I need my doctor’s approval or a referral to see a chiropractor?

Accepted Answer

No, you don’t need a GP referral to visit a chiropractor. More and more GPs are recognising that chiropractic care is effective, particularly for back pain.

Question 8

Will treatment hurt?

Accepted Answer

Manipulation and manual therapy, when carried out correctly by a qualified practitioner, does not normally cause discomfort. Sometimes, if you have had a problem for some time, you may experience post-treatment soreness in the early stages of your treatment plan.

Question 9

Is there parking at the clinic?

Accepted Answer

There is no customer parking at the clinic however Dowker Lane car park is situated just outside the clinic. If this is full Brewery Arts car park is a 5 minute walk or Kendal Booths car park is a 10 minute walk.

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