Is It Time to See a Chiropractor?

Maybe you have been referred to a chiropractor, or perhaps you are considering seeing one on your own. Either way, you may be wondering: When should I see a chiropractor?

Chiropractors are licensed healthcare professionals who help manage pain and improve mobility for conditions affecting the spine, joints, muscles, and extremities. They use evidence-based, non-surgical approaches to support the body's natural healing process. Common reasons people seek chiropractic care include lower back pain, neck pain, muscle pain, sciatica, and certain types of headaches.

A chiropractic adjustment is a therapeutic treatment in which a chiropractor uses their hands or specialized instruments to apply controlled force to a joint. Also known as spinal manipulation or joint manipulation, chiropractic adjustments are often used alongside traditional medical care as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Here is what experts say about when chiropractic care may be appropriate:

• According to the Cleveland Clinic, chiropractic adjustments may be a good option for people experiencing pain who are looking for a treatment approach that does not rely on prescription medication.
• The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) notes that chiropractic care can be one of several tools to help support overall health, mobility, and physical function.
• According to the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, approximately 20% of adults who receive chiropractic care are age 65 or older, while 44% are between the ages of 31 and 64.
• A 2022 study published in Chiropractic & Manual Therapies found that, among older Medicare beneficiaries with spinal pain, those who received chiropractic care had a significantly lower risk of filling an opioid prescription.

Your first chiropractic appointment typically includes a review of your medical history, a physical examination, and a discussion of your symptoms and treatment goals. Based on the evaluation, your chiropractor may develop a personalized treatment plan and recommend exercises or other self-care strategies to support your recovery.

Contrary to common misconceptions, chiropractic care does not necessarily continue indefinitely. The length of treatment depends on your condition, symptoms, and personal health goals.

Many people only need care for a few weeks or months while recovering from an injury, while others choose periodic maintenance visits to help manage recurring pain or support mobility. Insurance coverage for chiropractic services varies by health plan and insurance provider.