Patient Care During Therapy Visits: What to Know

When visiting for any therapy—whether chiropractic, physiotherapy, or consulting an orthopedic surgeon—there are certain precautions and considerations you should keep in mind. Additionally, understanding major contraindications and red flag symptoms can ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.

General Care Tips for Therapy Visits

• Share Complete Medical History
  Provide information about past surgeries, current medications, allergies, and chronic conditions.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing
  Dress in loose, comfortable clothes that allow easy movement and access to the area being treated.
• Follow Pre-Visit Instructions
  Adhere to any instructions provided by the therapist before your appointment, such as fasting or avoiding certain activities.
• Communicate Clearly
  Describe your symptoms accurately, including when they started, their intensity, and what worsens or alleviates them.
• Ask Questions
  Don’t hesitate to ask about the treatment plan, expected outcomes, and any concerns you may have.

Major Contraindications and Red Flag Symptoms

Contraindications for Chiropractic Therapy

• Bone Weakness
  Conditions like osteoporosis or bone cancer.
• Nerve Damage
  Severe nerve damage or spinal cord compression.
• Blood Clotting Disorders
  Patients with bleeding disorders or on blood thinners.
• Severe Arthritis
  Advanced arthritis affecting the spine.

Contraindications for Physiotherapy

• Open Wounds or Skin Infections
  Active infections or unhealed wounds in the treatment area.
• Unstable Fractures
  Recent, unstable bone fractures.
• Severe Cardiovascular Conditions
  Uncontrolled heart conditions or recent cardiac events.
• Acute Inflammation
  Severe inflammation or swelling in the affected area.

Contraindications for Orthopedic Surgery

• Infection
  Active infections can increase the risk of complications.
• Poor General Health
  Severe health conditions that may complicate surgery or anesthesia.
• Severe Obesity
  Increased risk of surgical complications.

Red Flag Symptoms to Watch For

• Severe, Unrelenting Pain
  What to Do: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience pain that doesn’t improve with rest or medication.
• Sudden Weakness or Numbness
  What to Do: If you suddenly lose strength or sensation in an arm or leg, it could indicate a serious condition needing urgent care.
• Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control
  What to Do: This can be a sign of severe spinal cord compression and requires emergency treatment.
• Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue
  What to Do: These symptoms can indicate underlying serious conditions such as cancer or infection.
• Persistent Fever
  What to Do: A continuous fever may suggest an infection that requires medical evaluation.

FAQs from a Patient's Perspective

• What should I bring to my therapy appointment?
  Bring a list of your current medications, any relevant medical records, and wear comfortable clothing. Also, note any questions or concerns you have for your therapist.
• How do I know if a therapy is not suitable for me?
  Your therapist will assess your medical history and current condition to determine suitability. If you have conditions like severe osteoporosis or active infections, certain therapies may not be recommended.
• What are some signs that I need to stop therapy immediately?
  Severe pain, sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, unexplained weight loss, and persistent fever are red flag symptoms that need immediate medical attention.
• Can I combine different types of therapies?
  Yes, often therapies like physiotherapy and chiropractic care can complement each other. However, it's important to coordinate with your healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective treatment plans.
• How can I ensure my safety during therapy sessions?
  Follow your therapist’s instructions closely, communicate any discomfort or concerns, and report any new or worsening symptoms immediately.
• What should I do if I feel worse after a therapy session?
  Mild soreness is normal, but if you experience severe pain or other concerning symptoms, contact your therapist or healthcare provider immediately.