Choosing a chiropractor can be a daunting task, given the number of practicing chiropractors and the number of different styles and techniques. Chiropractors have success in treating many symptoms and problems, including many health and visceral problems. Numerous studies show that chiropractic treatment is effective in dealing with blood pressure, breathing and digestive problems, to name a few.

Chiropractors have been treating pain symptoms for over a century with great results, as witnessed by the number of chiropractors practicing today.

There are many things to look for when choosing a chiropractic clinic.

Quality

According to the American Chiropractic Association, accredited chiropractors go through a total of at least 4,200 classroom hours, in addition to the four or five years of professional training. This usually equals eight years of schooling, both undergraduate and graduate. This rigorous training ensures that you will receive expert care. The learning does not stop in the classroom, as most experience is learned "on the job." When choosing a chiropractor, ask about their training, credentials and work history.

Techniques

There are literally hundreds of chiropractic adjusting techniques, and there is not one "golden technique" that fixes everyone. Some techniques are good for helping with health problems, while others are good for helping with back pain. There is ample evidence and research that shows that the majority of back problems are caused by structural deficiencies. Techniques that fix postural or structural problems are a good bet for long-lasting correction. Choose a chiropractor who has many techniques: they can work with and you will have a lot better chance that they will have one that works best for you.

Clinics

Is the clinic you are looking for warm and appealing, or something out of the '70s? There are many additional tools and modalities that chiropractors are licensed to use, other than just their hands. Some clinics use high-tech devices such as Spinal Decompression Tables and Cold Lasers, as well as traditional modalities like ultrasound, electrical stimulation and massage devices. All of these tools have shown to increase and speed up healing, resulting in better results.

Physical therapy

Research has shown that doing strengthening exercises further accelerates and prolongs healing. Some clinics have full physical therapy wings dedicated to stretching and strengthening the muscles in charge of supporting the spine. If these muscles are not strong and balanced, how is your spine going to stay in place? It is extremely important that exercise is incorporated into the treatment for long-lasting results.

Multi-disciplinary team

Multi-disciplinary treatment clinics are appearing in cities around the country. These clinics employ both doctors of chiropractic and doctors of medicine. When a clinic has multiple types of doctors, there are multiple treatments and an exponential combination of treatments that can be used to heal a patient's specific condition. Each type of doctor has their unique "box of tools" and diagnostic techniques used to treat patients. When you have multiple tool boxes to treat with and multiple doctors working together on your unique problem, your chance of success goes up significantly.

Insurance coverage/ cash plans

Most all insurance covers chiropractic services in Idaho. Sometimes the coverage can be limited, and finding a clinic that has reasonable cash plans and services can be helpful. Also, some clinics offer medical financing for those without insurance or for those who need a little help meeting their deductibles.

Get referrals

One way to find a good clinic is to ask your family, friends and co-workers. Chances are someone you know has received excellent treatment from a chiropractor. They are usually happy to share their experiences with you.

If you already have a clinic in mind, ask your family physician what he knows about the clinic and doctors. By taking your time and researching on the internet and with your peers, you can choose the perfect clinic that fit your needs and style.

- Disk and Spine Northwest