Choosing a chiropractor can be daunting task. There are often many choices in any given town, and each chiropractor likely does things a little bit differently. Here are some tips to help choose the right chiropractor for you. These are the same guidelines we use when looking to refer our patients.
Do Choose a chiropractor who....
1. has current licensing and is in good standing with the chiropractic state board
2. pursues continuing education, post-doctoral degrees, diplomate programs, and expert specializations in the field
3. takes x-rays when medically necessary (usually this is less than 10% of patients)
4. performs a thorough physical exam and discusses your history
5. routinely coordinates care with other providers, i.e physicians, PAs, NPs, PT, ATC, orthopedic surgeons, massage therapists, acupuncturists, etc.
6. recommends treatment plans that are short in duration and goal oriented (<2 months)
7. incorporates the latest evidence including therapeutic exercise, rehab, soft tissue techniques, or physiotherapy into treatment plans
8. limits passive modalities (electrical stimulation, ultrasound) to the acute phase of treatment (not every single visit)
9. give transparent and up front pricing and explanation of insurance benefits to best ability
10. advocates for patient to take control of their condition
avoid a chiropractor who...
1. offers extensive "pre-payment" plans for chiropractic services
2. offers free or discounted treatment or exam as an introductory offer
3. spreads anti-vax or anti-medicine propaganda
4. refuses to work together with other healthcare providers
5. retakes X-rays yearly to document "progress"
6. uses fake awards or accolades on website and advertising materials
7. uses scare tactics or bullies patients into care or treatment based on their imaging results
8. recommends excessive visits for your condition (an initial "trial of care" for any given condition is typically 6-12 visits)
9. makes unsubstantiated claims about curing non-musculoskeletal conditions though chiropractic adjustments
10. uses outdated medical terminology