Chiropractic Treatment Plan

Most chiropractors begin treatment during the patient's first visit, although some may wait until the next appointment. Chiropractic treatment recommendations may include some or all of the following:

• Adjustments to key joint dysfunctions
• Modalities to improve soft tissue healing and pain control, such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and traction
• Exercises to improve muscles balance, strength, and coordination
• Patient education to improve posture and motor control
• Other treatments such as massage, heat/cold application, and education on nutrition

Importantly, at this point the chiropractor will establish specific goals for a patient’s individual chiropractic treatment plan:

• Short-term goals include reducing pain and restoring normal joint function and muscle balance
• Long-term goals include restoring functional independence and tolerance to normal activities of daily living

To reach these goals, the chiropractor will prescribe a specific number of chiropractic visits, such as 1 to 3 chiropractic visits/week for 2 to 4 weeks, followed by a re-examination by the chiropractor.

At the re-evaluation, the chiropractor will measure the response to treatment and determine whether to:

• Continue chiropractic treatment if appropriate
• Release the patient from chiropractic care if treatment goals have been met
• Refer the patient to another health care specialist if treatment goals have not been fulfilled

Chiropractic manipulation is a recognized and popular pain relief treatment, with an estimated 250,000 chiropractic visits each year. Knowing what to expect from the first chiropractic visit can help an individual receive the maximal benefit from chiropractic treatment.

Because chiropractic is a profession with an unusually large variety of practice philosophies and techniques, individuals should feel comfortable asking all the questions necessary to understand the chiropractic examination, diagnosis, and treatment program.

• Article written By:
• Peter J. Schubbe, DC

May 22, 2000

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