New Patient FAQs are here to answer your questions. If you’ve never been to a chiropractor before you’re likely to have many questions running through your head. This is perfectly normal and those questions will have been asked by others many times before.
Questions Frequently Asked by New Patients
What happens at my first chiropractic appointment?
The first and most frequently asked of our New Patient FAQs.
Your first visit usually includes a detailed discussion about your symptoms, medical history and general health, followed by a physical examination. Your chiropractor will then explain their findings and discuss whether treatment is appropriate.
Do I need a GP referral?
New Patients often think that a GP referral is needed for chiropractic care. However, you do not usually need a GP referral to book an appointment with a chiropractor. If we believe another type of investigation or referral would be more appropriate, we will explain this clearly.
Will I need to remove any clothing?
Another common New Patient FAQ.
In some cases, yes. Depending on the area being assessed, your chiropractor may ask you to remove some items of clothing so they can examine you properly. Your privacy and comfort will always be respected, and shorts or a gown can be provided if needed.
Can treatment start on the first visit?
Yes, if treatment is appropriate and safe, it can often begin during your first appointment. If further investigation or referral is needed first, your chiropractor will explain the next steps clearly.
Is chiropractic treatment safe?
Chiropractic care is a regulated profession in the UK, and registered chiropractors are trained to assess whether treatment is suitable for each patient. If we feel chiropractic is not the right approach for you, we will advise you accordingly or recommend the appropriate next step.
Are chiropractors fully qualified?
All chiropractors practising in the UK must be registered with the GCC (General Chiropractic Council). To do so they must have undertaken a minimum of 4-5 years of study at an accredited institution. Areas of study include anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, orthopaedics, nutrition, diagnosis, radiology and pharmacology.
To ensure that we are always at the top of our game with skills and knowledge, all Chiropractors are required to complete 30 hours of annual Continual Professional Development.
How much will treatment cost?
Our current prices are displayed for each treatment type in our ONLINE BOOKINGS.
Treatment is different for everyone, and our chiropractors will only treat you if it’s necessary. The number of treatments you need will depend on how your body responds to treatment.
Initially you will need a NEW PATIENT APPOINTMENT. Following this you may need follow on CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT appointments. Your chiropractor will explain this during your NEW PATIENT APPOINTMENT. Your chiropractor may also recommend MASSAGE APPOINTMENTS to complement your chiropractic treatment.
How many treatments would I need to feel better?
There is no set plan when it comes to the number of treatments that are needed as this varies from patient to patient. Most patients will feel better after a treatment. They will have an increased sense of well-being and mobility will often be improved. Please be aware though that this is not always the case and in some situations, there may be a small exacerbation of your condition before you start to feel better. The number of treatments needed will depend on your presenting complaint, your health, your lifestyle habits and how well you have looked after yourself over the course of your life.
Does treatment hurt?
For most of us, chiropractic manipulation won’t hurt. Generally, patients may experience some minor short-term discomfort. As symptoms improve, most people tend to find that follow up treatments are more comfortable.
What is the popping sound?
People experiencing Chiropractic care for the first time can feel a little anxious when having an adjustment as there is often a popping sound. This is nothing to worry about! The popping sound is simply a release of gas when the joint is moved like popping your knuckle. Contrary to popular belief, it is NOT the bones cracking!
What if I need an x-ray?
Sometimes an X-ray of your spine or joints is useful in helping us identify any problems that are related to your symptoms. If an X-ray is required, we will refer you to your local x-ray service, usually at the local hospital. We can also refer you to the Health Services University (HSU), Bournemouth if you wish to use private healthcare.
I have Arthritis – can anything be done?
Any chiropractic treatment aims to restore normal joint function spreading the load and taking the excessive strain away from degenerated joints. If you suffer from Arthritis or any other degenerative condition, please ask your chiropractor for advice on suitable exercises for maintaining joint function. Please also ensure that your chiropractor is fully aware of any conditions before treatment is considered.
Is treatment suitable even though I have had previous surgery?
In most cases, the answer is yes, however this will depend on the surgery and extent of the previous illness. Your chiropractor will be able to advise on whether treatment is suitable and may advise you to consult your GP before treatment.
What is Kinesio Tape?
Here at Lymington Chiropractic, we are great advocates of Kinesio Tape. Kinesio tape is latex-free, hypoallergenic and wearable for days at a time. It is generally used to help with sporting related or muscle injuries as it relaxes and stimulates muscles and does not limit the range of motion.
Is treatment safe during pregnancy?
In a word, yes. Many women suffer from back pain during pregnancy. It is easy to modify treatment positions to allow pregnant women to benefit from this form of treatment. Kinesiology tape is also very beneficial in treating pregnant women.
I am not in pain now, but my pain comes and goes. Should I be checked?
As with anything in life, ongoing maintenance and care, in the long term, should help to keep the ailments at bay. Wellness care is a big part of chiropractic practice. Prevention is better than cure. Exactly the same as regular dental check-ups, take time to schedule in a regular chiropractor check. Whether this is every two months or every six months, a regular check can help to keep the ailments at bay.
New Patient FAQs and Free Screen Appointments
We hope that our New Patient FAQs have answered your questions and put your mind at ease regarding chiropractic care. Should you have further questions or concerns we recommend that you book a FREE SCREEN APPOINTMENT with one of our chiropractors. This is an opportunity to discuss your concerns face-to-face with a chiropractor. Appointments are for 15 minutes and are free of charge.
How do I book a Chiropractic New Patient Appointment? The last of our New Patient FAQs.
Booking is easy and we have many ways to choose from.
You can BOOK ONLINE by following the link.
CALL our reception team on 01590 679560.
CONTACT US via our website.
EMAIL us at clinic@lymingtonchiro.co.uk.
Book your New Patient Appointment now and we will help you to the path to a better you!