Broadly speaking there are three phases of care;
Initial Intensive Care
The first phase of care is referred to as Relief or Acute Care. This is designed to eliminate or reduce the majority of the discomfort and stabilize the condition in the shortest amount of time. During this phase of care, visits will be frequent. Repeated visits will be required to reduce or eliminate the symptoms.
Rehabilitative Care
Once you have completed Initial Intensive Care the option of undergoing Rehabilitative Care will be available to you. The objective of the second phase of your treatment program is to correct any underlying spinal injury as well as strengthening the muscles, improve spinal function and provide more complete or optimum healing of tissues and organ systems. Visits will reduce in frequency and care is supplemented by exercises and modification of your daily work habits.
Remember, many of the conditions for which people seek Chiropractic care develop over many years, so it is unrealistic to think these problems could be eliminated in just a few short weeks.
Supportive, Maintenance or Wellness Care
The third and final option available to you is Supportive, Maintenance or Wellness Care. After symptoms are relieved or managed, we often return to the same stress, work, sport or whatever triggered these challenges in the first place. Since we don’t “live in a bubble”, it is important to recognize that keeping ahead of issues is healthier (and cheaper) that waiting until they become painful again. This phase of care is designed to maintain your improved health and spinal function, and prevent the return of the original condition once spinal correction has been attained. Regular attention catches small problems before they become serious. Prevention saves time and money by helping you stay well.
Wellness Care can continue for as long as you want, like dental checkups. Once patients experience the value of chiropractic, a conservative, drug free way to better health, many choose to continue regular checkups for life.
The Preservation of Health is easier than the Cure of Disease – BJ Palmer, D.C.
Remember, your chiropractor will provide you with accurate ongoing information regarding your condition and future goals, but the degree to which you utilize Chiropractic is always up to you and you will be 100% supported in your decision.