A chiropractic adjustment is a special technique that only chiropractors are trained to perform. It’s somewhat akin to manipulation, but it’s more focused and gentle. The chiropractor applies careful thrusts to joints that are not moving properly or are misaligned, helping them regain their normal function and easing the pressure on any affected nerves (like in the case of a pinched nerve). Sometimes during the adjustment, you might hear a 'crack' sound. This is just air escaping from the joint and is absolutely normal.

The straightforward answer is no, chiropractic treatment shouldn’t cause pain. Though, you might feel a bit tender if the area being treated is already inflamed. Moving an inflamed area can be a bit sore, regardless. I am dedicated to ensuring that your treatment is within your comfort zone while still being effective to help you recover.

Certainly not. In the UK, the title 'Chiropractor' is protected by law. This means that only individuals who have undergone proper training and are registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) can legally call themselves chiropractors.

I have gone through an extensive 4 or 5-year Chiropractic degree programme. The depth of study is comparable to that of a medical degree, but instead of focusing on medications and surgeries, the curriculum concentrates on specialised chiropractic training. This training earns chiropractors the title of Doctors of Chiropractic. Moreover, I am fully registered with the General Chiropractic Council and am also a member of the United Chiropractic Association (UCA).

The frequency and duration of your visits will depend on various factors, including:

• The nature of your issue

• How long you've been experiencing the issue

• The presence of any underlying conditions, such as degeneration

• Your lifestyle, including your occupation, stress levels, and physical activities. As you undergo treatment, I will regularly evaluate your progress. I compare the improvements with the findings from your initial assessment, which allows me to tailor the treatment plan to your needs.

Chiropractic care can be a safe and effective option for a wide range of people. On your first visit, I will conduct a detailed examination, may request X-rays or other diagnostic tests if needed, and will discuss your medical history and symptoms. Then I'll suggest a tailored treatment plan. Chiropractic care can be particularly beneficial if you have:

• Pain in any area of your body, or pain that radiates down your limbs

• Joint discomfort

• Muscle aches, weakness, numbness or tingling

• Difficulty in walking, balancing, or sitting and standing without pain

• Frequent headaches, tiredness, or trouble concentrating due to pain. Chiropractic treatment aims to tackle the root causes of pain, rather than just masking it.

At Ground Chiropractic, your first visit starts with a chat where I will ask you about your concerns, medical history, and what you hope to achieve. If it seems like chiropractic care can help, you’ll undergo a physical assessment.

If not, or if you need X-rays or MRI scans, I’ll refer you to a GP or specialist. The physical assessment will check your nervous system, posture, muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, and general mobility. After the assessment, I will explain the findings, how chiropractic can help, the estimated timeline for achieving your goals, and the costs involved. If suitable and you’re happy to proceed, I may begin treatment during the first visit. The entire appointment will take around one hour.

X-rays can be quite beneficial because they:

• Help rule out severe issues like fractures or tumours

• Allow assessment of osteoarthritis levels

• Enable me to see the alignment of the bones. In essence, x-rays give us a peek under the surface so I can tailor the safest and most effective care for you. However, the need for x-rays is determined on a case-by-case basis. If necessary, I will refer you to have an x-ray taken elsewhere.

Once you are feeling better and are able to live your life and do the things you love, you can decide what’s next. I usually suggest ongoing maintenance chiropractic care to sustain the improvements you’ve made. It’s similar to keeping fit or maintaining weight loss – it’s about preserving good habits. I want to make sure you don’t revert to the state you were in when you first came to us. However, everyone’s needs are different, and we will discuss all options with you when the time comes!