A guide to chiropractic treatment

Published on 21/9/2021

Reviewed on 15/9/2023 by Bryony Rhodes-Wort

Your questions about visiting a chiropractor, answered by our Clinical Product Team here at Simplyhealth.

What does chiropractic mean?

Chiropractic is the treatment and prevention of conditions affecting the bones, joints and muscles (musculoskeletal problems).

What does a chiropractor do?

Chiropractors use their hands to help relieve musculoskeletal problems. They can treat patients of all ages for a variety of conditions, such as:

• back pain

• neck pain

• headaches

• joint pain e.g. shoulder/elbow/knee

• migraines

• sports injuries

• pain from osteoarthritis.

What happens during a chiropractic appointment?

Initial consultations can usually last between 30-60 minutes. During your first appointment, your chiropractor will ask you a number of questions regarding your condition, symptoms, medical history and your general lifestyle.

Your chiropractor will then determine what the problem is, assess your symptoms, and decide if they feel that chiropractic treatment is appropriate. If the condition is not appropriate for chiropractic treatment, they may refer you to another health professional.

Chiropractors use many different techniques, and treatment may consist of the manipulation of the spine or joints. Manipulation is precise handling and moving of the joints and spine, safely moving them further than they normally go and moving them into different positions.

Treatment is not normally painful for patients, but you may experience a little discomfort. The chiropractor will also give you advice on self-management, diet and lifestyle.

Is my chiropractor qualified?

Chiropractic is a regulated profession and is provided by specialist, trained practitioners called chiropractors. In order to use this title, they must be registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC).

All chiropractors must evidence their continuing eligibility to practice each year. You can check if your chiropractor is registered on the GCC website.

How much is a chiropractic appointment?

The cost of an appointment can vary, but you should expect to pay between £30 and £80, depending on the length of the appointment and whether it's part of ongoing treatment or your first time.

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