Regular chiropractic care can help ease an array of ailments, from general back pain to migraine headaches. To ensure you get the most out of your chiropractic appointments, it's important to choose a chiropractor who suits your needs. Here are four factors to consider when making your choice.

Do you need to see a specialist?

If you're seeking chiropractic care to deal with general back or neck aches or to simply improve your overall health, a general chiropractor will likely do the trick. However, you may want to consider seeing a specialist if you're seeking treatment for a more specific, severe issue such as migraines or allergies. Athletes should consider seeing a chiropractor who specializes in sports medicine since a chiropractor in this field will be more familiar with issues that commonly plague athletes.

Does the chiropractor you're considering prefer gentle or more forceful techniques?

Some chiropractors use very gentle, gradual methods to adjust the spine. Others prefer to use more force. Neither method is better than the other; it's really a matter of personal preference. If you are nervous about someone working on your back, you may feel more comfortable with a chiropractor who uses very gentle manipulations. On the other hand, some patients like the feeling of having their spine "popped" into place, and feel more comfortable with a chiropractor who uses more force.

Do you want a chiropractor who uses treatments in addition to manipulation?

Some chiropractors focus mostly on spinal manipulation to treat their patients, while others believe in integrating other therapies, like cold laser treatments and at-home exercises. There are even chiropractors who specialize in nutrition, making dietary recommendations that are meant to enhance the effects of the spinal adjustments they make. Ask yourself whether you'd rather go to a chiropractor who strictly uses manipulation or whether you'd prefer a multi-faceted approach, and then ask multiple chiropractors about their approaches to find one that's right for you.

Do you need a chiropractor who works closely with a physician?

If you're suffering from a severe medical condition like cancer or advanced rheumatoid arthritis, you probably require the care of a physician. Many hospitals are beginning to integrate chiropractic care into their services. You may be able to find a chiropractor who works closely with your doctor, so the two of them can converse and collaborate to provide you with the best care. On the other hand, if you're seeking treatment solely for back pain or another relatively minor ailment, it may not be important to you that your chiropractor works closely with a physician.

Keep the factors above in mind as you find a chiropractor. Since chiropractors work closely with their patients in a hands-on manner, it's essential you find someone you're comfortable with and who offers the specific treatments you need.

For professional chiropractic care, contact a doctor such as Dr. Paul Lyons.