When Is It Worth Seeing a Chiropractor?

Most of us put up with aches and stiffness for longer than we should. We tell ourselves it'll settle by the weekend, and then it's still there a month later, stopping us from sleeping properly, lifting the kids, or getting through a round of golf.

If you're wondering whether it's worth getting checked, here are some common reasons people see a chiropractor, what to expect, and when your GP is the better first stop.

Common reasons people book in

Back pain that's lingering, keeps coming back, or is stopping you from doing normal things
Neck pain or stiffness, especially if you're struggling to turn your head while driving
Headaches that seem linked to neck tension or long hours at a desk
Pain down the leg, such as sciatica
Stiffness that's making it harder to move the way you used to
Sports or activity-related aches that aren't settling
Pregnancy-related back and pelvic pain
Posture concerns, often linked to screens and desk work

Signs it's worth getting checked

Pain that hasn't improved after a couple of weeks
Pain that keeps coming back
Discomfort that's affecting your sleep, work or activity
Stiffness that's limiting how you move
You're not sure what's going on and want a proper assessment

What happens at your first visit

Your first visit at Vitality includes:

A conversation. Your health history, what's going on, how it's affecting you, and what you want to get back to.
An examination. How you move, posture, muscle and joint function, and nerve checks where relevant.
Screening for warning signs. Anything that needs medical attention is referred on.
An explanation. What your chiropractor has found, in plain language.
Your options. If your chiropractor thinks they can help, they'll explain the plan and what's involved, so you can make an informed choice.

When to see your GP or go to emergency

Pain after a major accident or fall
Chest pain, shortness of breath or pain spreading into the arm or jaw
Back pain with fever, unexplained weight loss or a history of cancer
Numbness in the groin area, or new trouble with your bladder or bowels
Sudden weakness, numbness, slurred speech or a severe sudden headache

Ready to get it checked?

If something's been bothering you for longer than you'd like, it's worth finding out what's going on. New to the clinic? See our new client information, or book online at our Yokine clinic.

This article is general information only and isn't a substitute for individual advice from a registered health practitioner.