Finding the Right Chiropractor for You

Finding a new health care professional of any type can be both confusing and stressful. As a chiropractor I’m frequently asked by friends and family members if I know a good chiropractor in their area. Most of the time I do not so I can only advise them on how to go about finding the right chiropractor for them. 

What not to do. Location is not the most important factor. If the best chiropractor just happens to be next door great, but I don’t recommend making location the number on factor. Do not base your decision on an attractive sign or advertisement. 

Keys to finding the right Wellness Chiropractor for You

1. Meet the doctor. Most chiropractors will be willing to meet with you for a consultation at no cost. This is a great opportunity to ask the doctor any questions you may have about chiropractic care or any questions you have about the doctor. A few things to look for are:

· Does the doctor look healthy? If the doctor doesn’t him/herself look healthy they may not be the best person for your health advice.

· What does your gut tell you? Most people will have a gut feeling about how they feel about the doctor after visiting with them for a few minutes. If you feel comfortable with the doctor it might be a good fit.

· Does the doctor teach you about chiropractic? One of the main jobs of any doctor is to explain to the patient what they will be doing. Does the chiropractor do a good job explaining to you what chiropractic is? Does he/she explain the functions of the nervous system? Does he/she explain what a subluxation is and how it affects your health?

2. Ask your friends. If you have friends with similar health views as yourself, ask about their chiropractor. Ask what they like and what they don’t like. 

3. How are you examined? Chiropractors, like any physician, can use various methods to evaluate their patients. Be sure the chiropractor took a through history so he/she fully understands your problems and concerns. What was your exam like? Did the doctor explain to you what he/she was looking for and what his/her findings were? Many chiropractors will us advanced instruments such an EMG or a thermograph scan to functionally evaluate the nervous system.   Were x-rays taken to see if you have a major injury or structural damage?

4. Training. Education and licensing are now standardized for all chiropractors. However, very few chiropractors or any physician for that matter is actually wellness certified. There is only one specialized wellness training program for chiropractors and that is the International Chiropractic Associations wellness certification program. Look for a Certified Chiropractic Wellness Provider (C.C.W.P.).

5. Fees. Insurance isn’t really “health” insurance, its sick insurance. This is because most forms of health care will only pay for specific conditions. Your health insurance will likely only pay for a portion if any of your care, so ask about payment options to make your care affordable for you.

Chiropractic care has the potential to greatly influence your health. The key is to find the right chiropractor for you. Following these 5 steps will help make sure you have a great chiropractic experience.

About the author: Dr. Paul Juszczyk is a Certified Chiropractic Wellness Provider that specializes in helping people with a wide variety of spinal, musculoskeletal and nerve issues. He is also well known for being a health coach with his advanced wellness training.