16 11 月 I’m Nervous About My First Adjustment – What Should I Expect?
It is completely normal to feel a bit nervous about your first Chiropractic adjustment. You may be thinking: “Will it hurt?” or “is it even safe to do?”
The good news is that Chiropractic care is gentle, safe and an effective way of helping with your pain and stiffness. Your first appointment will surround understanding you rather than getting onto the bed and going straight into it. We want to understand the reason why you’ve come in, what your goals are and why this means so much to you. In this blog, we’ll talk about what is to be expected so that you are confident with Chiropractic care.
1. What Happens Before the Adjustment
Initial Consultation & History
- Your chiropractor will take a detailed history of your symptoms, lifestyle and health.
- They’ll also ask about your pain, where your symptoms are, previous injuries, daily habits and goals for treatment.
- This initial section may take longer as your Chiropractor will want to know as much as possible about you to ensure that the management of your condition is appropriate.
Assessment & Exam
- A physical assessment is then conducted, which involves examining your posture, range of motion, performing orthopaedic and neurological tests, and palpation (assessing the body via touch) of the muscles, joints, and other areas.
- You may also be asked to perform other functional movements (e.g. squats, lunges, push-ups, etc) to provide an understanding of how these movements are impacted on a daily level.
Imaging (if required)
- In some cases, an X-ray or referral for imaging may be requested before treatment, especially if there are any concerns or complex histories.
Key point: You will not be adjusted if the Chiropractor believes that it is not safe to do so!
2. What a Chiropractic Adjustment Involves
What is an Adjustment?
- A chiropractic adjustment is a quick, gentle, targeted movement applied to a specific joint (often in the spine) that’s not moving as it should.
- The goal is to restore mobility, reduce pain, and help your body function better.
Techniques Used
- Generally, prior to an adjustment, soft tissue massage will be done on the muscle surrounding the area to assist with this.
- Increased tension and spasms of the muscle will result in guarding of the muscle further making the joints feel stiff. Therefore, prior to an adjustment, soft tissue massage is often done to reduce muscle stiffness, improve mobility and reduce pain overall making an adjustment more efficient and comfortable (Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (2016) Evans, R., & Malott, D.)
- After this is the adjustment, all you’ll need to do is relax and breathe and your Chiropractic will do the rest.
- If the thought of an adjustment is too much for you then that’s fine. Your chiropractor can also perform a more gentle approach which moves the joint or even assist with stretching certain muscles.
What’s That “Cracking” Sound?
- That noise is called cavitation — it’s just gas releasing from the joint, similar to cracking your knuckles. It’s painless and doesn’t mean anything is breaking or going out of place.
Key point: You’re always in control! We’ll explain everything, ask for your consent, and ensure you’re comfortable every step of the way.
3. Will it hurt?
- Most people feel relief after an adjustment — not pain.
- You may feel a little soreness afterward, similar to post-workout muscle fatigue, but this is normal and temporary.
- If you ever feel uncomfortable during a treatment, your chiropractor will adjust their technique or approach. You can also give them a call just to keep them updated.
4. What Happens After the Adjustment?
- Your Chiropractor may give you some advice regarding posture, movement, home based exercises to assist with your symptoms.
- You may feel immediate relief however, it may take a few sessions to see bigger changes however, this depends on the severity of your issue.
- Follow-up appointments are typically spaced based on what you and your Chiropractor discuss!
Final Thoughts: You’re in Safe Hands
Chiropractic care does not follow a cookie cutter approach where everyone gets the same treatment. At Sun Chiropractic we tailor your treatment to your body, preference and comfort level. We will take the extra time that you need to explain everything, address your concerns, and make you feel heard, safe and supported.
If you’re still unsure or have any questions, feel free to call us! We’re here to help 🙂