Not all back pain or musculoskeletal problem is the same. Your back pain may have a different cause than the person next to you suffering the same condition. Having said that, don’t assume that just any chiropractor is right for you. Here are some questions that will help you find the right one to make sure that the partnership will be a good fit.
1. Did You Acquire Any Post-Graduate Degrees?
A chiropractor with a post-graduate degree or special training is an indication he more suitable for you. This is especially true if it’s a training or specialization that is directly related to your specific condition. Just like how an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT) may diagnose and treat you better than a general practitioner when it comes to a serious ear problem.
2. How Many Experience Do You Have Treating My Particular Condition?
When it comes to treating your condition, your chiropractor’s experience could mean the difference between getting better or not. If you really want the root cause of your condition to be addressed then the first thing you should be inquiring about is his experience. Ask if he had similar cases before, how he handled them, how many have treated with the same cases. A chiropractor who has had experience treating your particular condition will always be better than the one who’s only treating it for the first time.
3. What Is Your Technique?
Some chiropractors prefer a more forceful manipulation which may offer immediate relief, while others prefer to use a more gentle and gradual approach. Neither technique is necessarily better, but you may be more comfortable with one or the other.
4. Types Of Treatments He Performs
There are different techniques used in chiropractic care. It’s important to know if the chiropractor performs the treatment that is necessary for your condition.
5. How Long Will My Treatment Last?
You have to have a clear idea how long the treatment is going to last. This will help you plan your schedule, budget, and as well as prepare you physically, mentally, and emotionally on how long will it take for you to get better.
6. Test And Preparations You’re Likely To Undergo
This is necessary for the chiropractor to device the treatment plan that suits you best. If they guy you’re talking to couldn’t tell you test or other preparations he plans to put you through and only sells you his treatments, be wary.
7. What Are The Estimated Costs?
Higher price doesn’t always mean better. But of course, this is important for you to know so you can work around your allotted budget for the treatment and whether you can afford the specific specialist or not.
8. Do You Have References?
Don't be afraid to ask the chiropractor to give you references. Any professional who is proud of his or her work will be happy to offer you the opportunity to speak with happy clients. Follow up with phone calls to the patients to ask about their experience with the particular chiropractor.
9. Ask Friends And Family For A Recommendation.
As much as possible, try to ask your family, relatives, or close friend if they know a good chiropractor to be sure you’ll only be working with a trustworthy professional. People, especially those close to you, won’t recommend someone that they themselves don’t trust.
10. Check If The Chiropractor Is Licensed To Practice By Your State.
Before a chiropractor can become licensed to practice, he or she must pass rigorous state and national exams. If you can’t find his name in the list of chiropractors who are licensed to practice by your state or location, that’s a warning sign. Even if his answers to the rest of your questions are promising, look for another one. Because if all the information he gave you are true and he doesn’t have any troubles with the law, he should be licensed to practice by your state.