How to Choose the Right Chiropractor

Finding the Best Chiropractor for you…

Choosing a chiropractor can be one of the most important health decisions you make, especially if you’re dealing with chronic pain, mobility issues, or looking for natural ways to maintain optimal health. With 30 years of experience in chiropractic care, running one of the largest clinics in the country, and training some of the best chiropractors in the business, I’ve seen firsthand what sets exceptional chiropractic care apart from mediocre care. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing the best chiropractor for you and your family.

1. Credentials and Experience

Not all chiropractors are created equal. While many have similar licenses and certifications, their level of experience, training, and philosophy of care can vary greatly. Look for:

Years of Experience: A chiropractor with years of experience will have encountered a wide range of conditions and developed a keen sense of what works. It is a perfect mixture of knowledge, clinical experience and intuition.
Special Training: Some chiropractors specialize in areas such as pediatrics, sports injuries, or chronic conditions like sciatica or fibromyalgia. Ask if they have experience with your specific needs.
Philosophy of Care: Are they focused on short-term pain relief, or do they emphasize long-term health improvements? Chiropractors who are trained to identify and correct the root problem tend to deliver better outcomes.

2. Treatment Philosophy

One of the most significant differences between chiropractors is their approach to care. Some are more symptom-focused, while others take a comprehensive approach, addressing the underlying issues that cause pain or dysfunction.

Old-School Approach: Chiropractors who come from the traditional, old-school mindset believe in getting to the root of the problem and supporting the body’s natural ability to heal. This approach often leads to life-changing results.
Customized Care Plans: Beware of cookie-cutter care plans. Every patient’s body is different, and their care plan should reflect that.
Wellness vs. Symptom Relief: An exceptional chiropractor will work beyond short-term symptom relief and strive to restore long-term wellness and function.

3. Track Record and Reputation

Reviews, testimonials, and success stories can reveal a lot about a chiropractor’s effectiveness. Look for clinics with a strong track record of success and a solid reputation within the community.

Patient Reviews: Read online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or the clinic’s website. Hundreds of 5-star reviews are a good sign that the chiropractor consistently delivers results. Read the reviews.
Referrals: Asking for recommendations can be helpful, just recognize that the person may or may not know the difference between an average chiropractor, ors someone who might be the best chiropractor for you and your needs..
Case Studies: Has the chiropractor successfully treated conditions similar to yours? Sometimes you can discern this by reading the reviews, or even calling the office and asking.

4. Diagnostic Capabilities

A chiropractor’s ability to accurately diagnose the issue is critical. The right diagnosis leads to the right treatment plan, and ultimately, better outcomes.

Thorough Evaluation: A good chiropractor will perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include physical exams, X-rays, and reviewing your medical history.
Problem Identification: Exceptional chiropractors pride themselves on figuring out what’s wrong and whether it can be fixed through chiropractic care.

5. Range of Techniques

Chiropractic care isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best chiropractors are trained in a variety of techniques and can adapt their approach to your specific condition.

Traditional Adjustments: Manual adjustments to correct misalignments and restore proper function.
Gentle Techniques: For patients who need a softer approach, like children, seniors, or those with sensitive conditions.
Supplemental Therapies: Some clinics offer additional treatments, such as non sugical spinal disc decompression, shockwave, laser, nutrition and functional care.

6. Communication and Compassion

A chiropractor should do more than just deliver adjustments—they should make you feel heard, cared for, and empowered.

Active Listening: Do they take the time to understand your concerns and goals?
Clear Explanations: A good chiropractor will explain your diagnosis, the treatment plan, and what you can expect.
Caring Attitude: You want someone who genuinely cares about your well-being and is committed to your health journey.

7. Insurance and Financial Considerations

Navigating healthcare costs can be tricky, so it’s important to find a chiropractor who works with your budget and insurance plan.

Insurance Coverage: Do they accept your health insurance, Medicare, or other coverage options? Is it more important that they take your insurance than being the best chiropractor for your condition? If so, look through your insurance company for a list of providers, and then do your research on these doctors.
Affordable Care Plans: Some clinics offer flexible payment plans to make care accessible.
Transparency: Ensure they are upfront about costs, so you’re not surprised by hidden fees. Asking how much is a visit, or what are your fees is not the best question. You need to understand what your problem is, and what the treatment plan looks like.
Cash practices: The Joint is an example of an easy in, easy out, cash chiropractic clinic, with a simple fee schedule.

8. Results-Oriented Mindset

At the end of the day, you’re looking for results. The right chiropractor will be committed to helping you achieve noticeable improvements in your health.

Progress Tracking: Do they measure and track your progress with scheduled evaluations?
Patient Success Stories: Can they share examples of patients who achieved life-changing outcomes?
Long-Term Benefits: Are they focused on helping you maintain long-term health, not just
temporary pain relief?

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right chiropractor can be a game-changer for your health. As someone who has built and managed one of the most successful clinics, raised a family without relying on medications, and trained many of the top chiropractors in the business, I know the importance of finding the right fit. Look for someone who combines experience, diagnostic precision, compassion, and a results-driven approach—a chiropractor who sees amazing, life-changing results every day and genuinely cares about their patients.

Your health is an investment, and the right chiropractor can help you live pain-free, improve your mobility, and achieve optimal well-being. And the good news is, there are lots of great chiropractors in this community.