When you first visit a chiropractor, a case history will be taken.

Details of your complaint are taken, but also questions will be asked about your general medical history to check whether you have any other problems which may affect your condition and subsequent treatment.

Anna will then examine you, paying particular attention to your neuromusculoskeletal system (nerves, muscles and joints).

Other areas may also be examined to rule out other causes (such as the abdomen, your blood pressure etc): this thorough check-up is a normal procedure in a chiropractic clinic.

After this examination, it may be possible to proceed with treatment immediately.

In some cases, however, x-rays may be required, or other investigations such as blood tests (through your GP) may be necessary. Anna will discuss this with you and refer you swiftly so as not to delay treatment.

Before treatment starts, Anna will explain your condition in clear terms such that you understand what is wrong with you, what can be done about it, and how you can help yourself. You will also be advised of all costs relating to your care.

You will be told of any likelihood for recurrence, and the possible need for any on-going supportive care, which is not an unusual situation for patients with serious injuries or long-term problems due to wear and tear on the joints.

Many people believe that chiropractors only manipulate the spine.

Chiropractors, however, are equally competent at treating other conditions such as sports injuries, and any other area of the musculoskeletal system. Treatment may indeed involve manipulation, but this may not necessarily be appropriate for your condition.

Anna may use a combination of other treatments such as massage, stretching, exercises or other procedures such as strapping or ultrasound. The important thing is that your treatment is individually tailored to your needs, based on your condition, your physique, and your medical history.

If manipulation is used, this is done to free joints in the spine or other areas which are not moving properly. Usually, this involves a short thrust to the joint which may result in an audible ‘click’, which is the sound of gas bubbles popping in the joint fluid as the pressure is released. There is, however, no instant cure and some patients may experience temporary soreness due to inflammation in the early stages of treatment.

As your care continues, your condition should improve and stabilise, and you will be advised of life-style changes and/or exercise to maintain this.