FAQ

Chiropractic FAQ’s

What is a Chiropractic adjustment?

Adjustments are highly specific, quick but gentle movements applied by the Chiropractors hands to a joint with the intention of restoring mobility and to support the connection between the brain and the rest of the body.

What is the cracking or popping noise?

With some techniques, you may hear a noise from the joint as it is adjusted. This is simply the release of gas or air bubbles from the fluid inside the joint. You may not always hear this sound, and this does not mean that the adjustment was not successful. Some of the lower-force techniques we use may not produce a noise at all. All of our techniques are adaptable depending on the patients age, any conditions present, and preferences.

Will it hurt?

Chiropractic adjustments are generally not painful.  Adjustments are gentle, precise, safe and effective and we will choose techniques that are best suited to you for your age, complaint, medical history and personal preference. You may experience some mild soreness, similar how you may feel after exercise but this typically fades within 24/ 48 hours.

However, for patients presenting to us who are experiencing high levels of acute pain, anything, even moving on the bench may hurt. We are all highly trained and experienced and aim to ensure every patient has the most comfortable experience possible.

How will I feel afterwards?

It is common to experience some mild stiffness or achiness following an adjustment, similar to how you may feel after exercising in the gym. This is especially so following your first adjustments, during which time your body may be resistant to change. Your muscles will likely be working more, as the joints they are attached to will move further after they are adjusted. An inflammation response may be elicited, so it is a good idea to apply an ice pack to the region for a few minutes.

Is Chiropractic care safe?

Yes, if performed by a licenced and properly trained Chiropractor. In the UK, Chiropractic training is a 4 or 5 year degree, during which we receive training on neurology, biomechanics, clinical medicine, pathology to name a few, as well as rigorous technique training. Once we qualify, we register with the General Chiropractic Council, who regulate Chiropractors in the UK, and we are required to provide evidence of ongoing training annually. Our Chiropractors are all trained to assess all patients thoroughly to ensure they are suitable for Chiropractic care, this includes pregnant women and the elderly. It is very important that you are honest when you disclose your medical history to your Chiropractor.

What happens if you can’t help me?

Our Chiropractors will be transparent and honest if we feel that Chiropractic care is not the best option for you at that time. This may mean that further investigation is required and we may refer you to a GP or another health care provider.

Do I need to see my GP first?

No. We are primary health care providers, meaning you can self-refer. We do often take GP referrals too.

Will I need to remove clothing?

No. During all regular adjusting visits you will remain fully clothed. We’ll only ask you to remove jackets and shoes once you enter the practice. If, during an examination visit we need some clothing to be moved or removed we will ask your permission and ensure that you are comfortable with this.

What should I wear?

Please wear loose, stretchy, comfortable clothing. However, if you arrive in your skinny jeans, we can still adjust you!

Do you do home visits?

We do not offer a home visit service.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

Before your initial consultation you will be asked to complete a pre-assessment history form so that you can share medical records, scans, medication and any clinical letters. If anything changes throughout the course of your care, please share this with your Chiropractor so your care plan can be adjusted accordingly, if necessary.

What will happen during my first visit?

Your Initial Consultation visit is an opportunity for your Chiropractor to try to work out the underlying cause of the symptoms you present with. Your nerves, joints and muscles will be tested gently and we will carry out a digital posture screen for you. You will be asked In detail about your presenting complaint, and your goals or health aims.

How many visits will I need?

This will vary from patient to patient depending upon:

  • Your state of health before starting care
  • How long you’ve suffered from the presenting problem
  • The number of regions of your body that are affected
  • Your age
  • Your posture
  • Your diet
  • How long you sit for each day
  • Your health aims
  • Negative lifestyle choices (smoking, alcohol, processed food, sugar, sedentary hobbies or work)
  • Your attitude towards reaching your health goals.

Will I be adjusted in my first visit?

No, your first visit will be a consultation where we will discuss your medical history, current complaints and your goals. You will also receive a physical assessment. During the follow up Results Visit your Chiropractor will take you through your personal care plan, and you can choose to go ahead with your first adjustment during this visit. Please note that if you do choose to be adjusted during the Results Visit this will be at an additional cost.

What are the costs?

All costings and payment options will be clearly shared with you during your Results Visit, once a bespoke care plan has been made for you.

We often have offers running for New Patient Initial Consultations so please ask when you contact us.

Please see our Investment page for cost outline

How long will my visits take?

Typically the first two visits required as part of the New Patient experience, your Initial Consultation and separate Results Visit, take roughly 30 minutes each. Subsequent adjustment visits are thankfully much quicker, for the convenience of every patient.

Sports Therapy FAQ’s

Do I need to be an athlete to see a Sports Therapist?

No- anyone can benefit from the help of a Sports Therapist! Our Sports Therapists see a huge variety of patients from desk workers and elderly patients who need help with mobility, to weekend warriors as well as professional athletes.

What do Sports Therapists do?

Sports Therapists focus on the assessment, diagnosis, care and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal issues. Sometimes these are sport-related injuries, but often the cause is not sport-related at all and can be as a result of the constant repetition of movements over time, postural stresses, minor physical traumas and emotional stress.

Our Sports Therapists will make a plan to help you and may use a combination of hands on techniques, such as massage, clinical cupping, taping and exercises to help you get back to doing what you love doing.

General

Is there parking?

Yes. Abbey Terrace car park is right next to our practice and is free for 2 hours, so you will have plenty of time.

What payments do you accept?

We accept all credit and debit cards, (apart from AMEX).

Can I see a female practitioner?

Yes. You can select a female practitioner if you are booking online. If you call us please just state your preference to see a female practitioner.

Do you accept health insurance?

We do not work directly with insurance companies. All visits are required to be paid for upfront and we can issue you with a receipt which you can send to your insurance company for reimbursement – we do not claim on your behalf. PLEASE check with your insurer BEFORE booking any visits to ensure that they will accept this, and to avoid disappointment, as some companies may not.

Is Chiropractic available on the NHS?

All services we provide are private, non- NHS.

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If you’re ready to book an appointment or you have any questions then please get in touch! You can email us on hello@thecotschiro.com or phone 01242 437970.

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