Most of us don’t know how to find a good chiropractor. Generally, when we are looking for a doctor, we just open up the yellow pages and let our fingers do the walking. Sometimes, we may ask our friends, family or co-workers for a recommendation, but face it, what works for them may not work for you. Finding a good chiropractor can be a very difficult decision, because this is a profession with an unusually wide variety of techniques and philosophies. Here are some tips on how to find a competent chiropractor best suited for you as an individual.

Do a phone interview. Take time out to interview your prospective chiropractor. If the doctor is not available when you call, then arrange a time when you can speak to the doctor. Take note of the doctors communication skills, he should be comfortable to speak with and eager to answer your questions. You may want to ask:

What the doctor’s feelings are about how chiropractics differ from other health professions?

What does the doctor see as his responsibility when performing a competent diagnosis?

How does the doctor feel about referring patients to other specialists?

What kind of techniques does this doctor offer?

What kind of experiences has he had with other patients with similar conditions to you?

What are the doctor’s fees or does the doctor take your insurance, or in case you have an HMO, do you need a referral?

What is doctor’s location and what are his hours of operation?

Avoid a chiropractor who:

Considers his profession as being opposed to the medical profession.

Denies responsibility to diagnose and refer patients in a good manner.

Tries to sell you on his “miracle cures” or any other technique that only he knows how to do or has learned in some “school of thought.”

Insists you have x-rays done as a routine or requirement, or insist on having an EMG scan or other expensive test that is often not necessary.

Uses scare tactics or if he sounds like he’s making a sales pitch on you.

Has a dirty, littered or foul smell in his office.

Cold calls you to announce their presence in your area and tries to make you a free appointment.

All depending on the seriousness or extremity of your condition, you may need to see the chiropractor several times before your condition can be relieved. This is a good reason to choose a chiropractor that works within a reasonable driving distance with hours that suit your schedule. It’s important to have a chiropractor that you can rely on to get into fairly quickly without having to wait a month or so to get in.

On your first visit to the office, what is your general impression? Any doctor’s office should have a clean and professional appearance. The office staff should be able to treat you with the courtesy, respect and professionalism that are expected of a medical establishment. Many offices require you to fill out forms about your general medical history and the problem that brought you to them for the doctor to review with you during a private interview. You should be able to discuss your problem in detail, followed by having vital signs taken, and a number of other neurological and orthopedic tests. You should also have an analysis of your musculoskeletal system functions and structure, to determine if your problem is within the scope of chiropractics. If the doctor insists that other laboratory tests are necessary, ask why. He should be able to provide a clear and concise explanation that makes sense and that is easy for you to understand. The doctor should be able to explain your problem, treatment options and customize a treatment plan that you are able to understand. If he is unable to do this, then he is not the right doctor for you.

The length of treatment varies with each individual. Although your condition may resemble your best friends, it does not mean you will heal as quickly as she did. Everyone’s musculoskeletal system is different and responds differently to treatment. This is why it’s important to do your own research and interviews before settling with a chiropractor. Never let anyone pressure you into seeing a particular doctor.

James Calvin
http://www.articlesbase.com/advertising-articles/your-body-needs-alignment-how-to-choose-a-chiropractor-74824.html

Anxiety isn’t the only menopause symptom. Menopause can also cause a slew of other emotional and physical symptoms including back pain and discomfort. The good news is that menopausal women who suffer from back problems are finding relief through chiropractic medicine.

What is chiropractic medicine? It is a treatment that assists in restoring balance, healing and energy throughout the body. When our bodies lack balance, the hormonal and stress response system are affected. Thus, chiropractic medicine works by alleviating pressure on the nerve roots of the spine, helping to relieve discomfort. It detects dislocation (subluxation) and promotes correction by encouraging the function, repair, coordination and communication of the nervous system. Chiropractic medicine is a non-invasive drug-free treatment that is performed by a chiropractor.

How is it performed? First of all, chiropractor treatment will vary for each patient, as different techniques may be used to help alleviate certain symptoms or health conditions. Therefore, a chiropractor will want to know the medical history of the patient and their current health problems. Once this information has been processed, treatment will then be provided.

Most chiropractors will use their hands to perform treatment; however, they may also use other treatment methods such as light, heat, ultrasound, electrotherapy and other special adjusting instruments. You will also likely be provided with information regarding a personalized exercise program, nutrition and lifestyle changes that can help improve your symptoms.

Is treatment painful? No. Most people find chiropractic medicine to be quite relaxing. What may be unnerving to some patients are popping sounds that joints make when they are adjusted. This popping noise is the sound that occurs when a gas bubble between the joints pop. It’s the same sound and feeling that happens when you crack your knuckles.

How can a chiropractor help during menopause? Chiropractic medicine can relieve a variety of painful and uncomfortable menopause symptoms related to estrogen deficiency including:
Â?Back pain
Â?Headaches and/or migraines
Â?Stress and tension
Â?Neck problems

Chiropractor treatment is also considered beneficial for treating the beginning stages of osteoporosis. It is incredibly effective at restoring flexibility to joints and decreasing muscular tension and pressure on nerves.

Chiropractic treatment can provide relief fast, which is often why it is one of the most celebrated alternative remedies. That being said, you will need more than one chiropractic treatment. The average patient has eight annual visits, but this number will vary depending on the health concern.

Are their any risk? It is extremely rare for complications to occur during chiropractic treatment, especially if performed by an experienced and qualified chiropractor. Therefore, it is a low risk, non invasive therapy that is virtually safe for everyone.

How do I find a chiropractor? Although you don’t need to be referred to a chiropractor by your doctor, it is a good idea to first consult your health care provider to find out if he/she has any recommendations. You should also speak to others who have had chiropractor treatment to learn about their experiences and ask them about their chiropractors.

You can find chiropractors to help treat your menopause symptoms by checking your local yellow pages, phoning your local hospital, or doing an online search with your city and “chiropractor” as the main keywords.

Kathryn Whittaker
http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/can-a-chiropractor-relieve-your-menopause-symptoms-125478.html