If you are new to chiropractic treatment or are considering it for the first time, here are some facts you should know.

A chiropractor is a graduate of an accredited chiropractic college and has had extensive training, both academic and practical. Though the hallmark of chiropractic treatment is spinal adjustment, a precise movement of the individual bones of the spine, the chiropractor also has an array of other techniques at his or her disposal. Muscle stimulation is one of them. Muscle stimulation uses a small amount of current that is conducted through targeted muscles to treat injury to soft tissue, which can reduce pain and increase circulation.

Chiropractors are also able to dispense advice about nutrition and other lifestyle issues that can help you address a particular problem, or just keep your body running smoothly. A typical chiropractic adjustment will take from 5 to 10 minutes. An initial exam, though, will take longer(up to an hour or more) because the chiropractor, like any health care professional, is going to collect information about your general health and medical history and give you a thorough exam to establish a baseline for future treatment.

The initial exam will most likely include measuring your legs. A slight difference in leg length is not uncommon and can cause back problems. A little soreness after chiropractic treatment is not unusual, just as you’d experience after a good workout. Visit a chiropractor if you have any questions about the value of chiropractic treatment.