The Complete Guide to Finding the Best Chiropractor

If you’ve been dealing with nagging pain, quick fixes aren’t going to cut it. In fact, you’re probably already sick of popping painkillers every couple of hours or using ice or heat packs constantly only to get a few moments of relief. We’re familiar with how frustrating that cycle can be, it’s something we hear from patients every day. Chiropractic care can help break the cycle and give you back something you may not have had in a long time: comfort!

This guide covers everything you need to know about finding the right chiropractor in Des Moines or Burien, from what to look for in a provider to what your first visit should feel like.

TL;DR: The Key Points

Too busy to dive into the full guide? No worries! Here’s the fast version:

• Chiropractors help with various types of pain, sports injuries, and car accident recovery.
• A great chiropractor will use a “whole-body” approach.
• Expect a consultation, exam, and adjustment during your first visit.
• Complementary therapies like massage and corrective exercises boost results.
• Long-term chiropractic care is beneficial to your mobility and overall wellness.

Why Choose a Chiropractor?

A chiropractor in Burien can help with:

• Back pain and stiffness
• Neck pain from posture or injuries
• Sciatica and pinched nerves
• Headaches and migraines
• Sports-related injuries
• Car accident recovery (including whiplash and concussion care)

The goal isn’t short-term relief. Chiropractic care is designed to help reduce and prevent pain in the future.

What Makes a Great Chiropractor?

Not all chiropractic clinics are the same. Consider the following points when looking for a chiropractor near you:

1. Whole-Body Approach

A great chiropractor doesn’t just “crack backs.” Instead, they evaluate posture, movement, and lifestyle habits that may be contributing to pain. At Ascent Chiropractic, our care plans are built around each patient’s unique needs as opposed to a one-size-fits-all adjustment.

2. Certifications and Experience

Credentials are essential when it comes to medical care. Seek out certifications like DC (Doctor of Chiropractic) and specialties such as CCSP® (Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician). This shows that your provider has advanced training in sports injury rehab and performance care.

3. Complementary Therapies

Some conditions respond best when chiropractic care is paired with other treatments. For example, massage therapy, corrective exercises, and posture training can accelerate healing and provide better results.

4. Patient-Centered Care

Your first visit should feel welcoming and thorough. A chiropractor should listen to your concerns, explain what’s going on in clear language, and outline a personalized care plan.

First Visit Expectations

Walking into a chiropractor’s office for the first time can feel overwhelming. Here’s the usual process for what we do at Ascent Chiropractic:

1. Comprehensive Consultation: A full discussion about your pain, health history, and lifestyle habits.
2. Physical Examination: We check on your posture, range of motion, and take some specific orthopedic or neurological tests.
3. Diagnostic Imaging (if needed): X-rays or scans may be ordered to understand the root of the problem.
4. Personalized Planning: Our specialists create a tailored program combining adjustments, exercises, and supportive therapies based on your specific needs.
5. First Adjustment: Many patients receive their first gentle adjustment on day one, often experiencing immediate relief.

Conditions Chiropractic Care Can Help With

Most people think about back pain when they think about chiropractors, but the conditions that chiropractic care can help with range widely, including:

Back Pain

One of the top reasons people seek chiropractic care. Adjustments reduce stress on the spine and nerves, restoring comfort and mobility.

Headaches & Migraines

Many headaches stem from neck or spinal misalignments. Gentle adjustments often decrease frequency and intensity.

Neck Pain & Whiplash

From car accidents to hours of computer work, neck issues are common. Chiropractic adjustments paired with rehab exercises can restore mobility and reduce tension.

Sciatica

A painful condition that radiates from the lower back down the leg. Chiropractic care helps relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and improve mobility.

Sports Injuries

Athletes benefit from chiropractic not only for injury recovery but also for performance optimization. With certifications like CCSP®, our team provides sports-focused chiropractic to help athletes return stronger.

Long-Term Benefits of Chiropractic Care

While many patients come in for pain relief, they often stay for the health benefits they didn’t expect:

• Better posture
• Improved sleep
• Increased energy
• Greater flexibility
• Fewer flare-ups of old injuries
• Overall better quality of life

Corrective chiropractic care doesn’t just fix today’s pain, it helps prevent tomorrow’s problems.

How to Choose the Right Chiropractor

If you’re ready to find a chiropractor near you, here are a few tips:

• Check Reviews: Look for consistent feedback about care, results, and atmosphere.
• Ask About Techniques: Every chiropractor has their preferred methods. Make sure they align with your needs (gentle vs. traditional adjustments, sports care, etc.).
• Consider Location: Choose a chiropractor close to you to make regular visits realistic.
• Look for Whole-Body Care: Pain relief is important, but long-term correction is what keeps you moving well for years.

The Role of Massage and Complementary Therapies

At Ascent Chiropractic, we recognize that adjustments alone aren’t always enough. Massage therapy, corrective exercises, and posture retraining are often included in care plans.

Why? Because muscles and soft tissues support the spine. Addressing them together means faster recovery and better long-term results.

FAQ: Some Common Questions You Might Have!

We get a lot of questions about chiropractic care, here are some of the ones we get the most:

Is chiropractic safe?

Yes. Chiropractic care is widely considered safe when performed by a licensed provider. At Ascent Chiropractic, adjustments are gentle, precise, and customized for each patient.

How many visits will I need?

It depends on your condition. Some patients feel relief after just one adjustment, while others with chronic issues may need a structured care plan. The focus is always long-term results, not quick fixes.

Does insurance cover chiropractic?

Most insurance plans include chiropractic benefits. Our team can verify your coverage before starting care so you know exactly what’s included.

Still curious? The best way to know if chiropractic is right for you is to schedule a consultation.

Ready to Start Healing?

At Ascent Chiropractic, we’re proud to serve patients in Burien, Normandy Park, Des Moines and the greater South Seattle area. From first-time chiropractic patients to seasoned athletes, our goal is the same: provide drug-free, natural care that truly works.

👉 Call Ascent Chiropractic today at 206-241-3836 or contact us online now to schedule your first visit and start your path toward lasting relief.