Why Do Chiropractic Treatment Times Vary?
Have you ever wondered why some chiropractic sessions last just 5–15 minutes while others extend to 30 minutes or more? The difference comes down to the chiropractor’s treatment philosophy, techniques used, and the needs of the patient. Let’s explore the key factors that influence session length and what it means for your care.
1. Treatment Philosophy & Techniques Used
Chiropractic care isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Different chiropractors use different techniques, which can impact session length:
Shorter Sessions (5–15 minutes): Chiropractors who focus on spinal adjustments often provide quick, precise treatments. Techniques like Diversified, Gonstead, and Activator are designed for efficiency, correcting misalignments with minimal additional therapy.
Longer Sessions (20–45 minutes): Some chiropractors integrate soft tissue therapy (such as myofascial release or massage), rehabilitation exercises, or lifestyle coaching. These approaches require more hands-on time but may help address underlying muscle imbalances or movement dysfunctions.
2. Clinic Model: High-Volume vs. Comprehensive Care
Chiropractors structure their clinics in different ways based on their approach to patient care:
High-Volume Clinics: These chiropractors focus on efficient adjustments, seeing many patients throughout the day. Their goal is to provide quick, effective spinal corrections, often in multiple short visits over time.
Comprehensive Care Clinics: Other chiropractors take a more holistic approach, spending additional time on assessments, movement analysis, and soft tissue work. These sessions tend to be longer and more tailored to individual needs.
3. Complexity of the Condition
The nature of your condition plays a significant role in determining session length:
Simple Cases (e.g., mild stiffness or minor misalignments) may only require a quick adjustment.
Chronic Pain or Complex Conditions (e.g., disc injuries, postural imbalances) often require longer treatments, including rehabilitation exercises and mobility work to ensure long-term improvements.
4. Patient Expectations & Preferences
Some patients prefer a quick adjustment and regular visits, while others seek a more hands-on, rehabilitative approach. It’s important to choose a chiropractor whose treatment style aligns with your health goals.
5. Billing & Insurance Considerations
Session length may also be influenced by how chiropractic care is billed:
Some clinics offer a flat fee for adjustments, regardless of time spent.
Others may charge based on session duration, particularly if additional therapies like soft tissue work or exercise prescription are included.
Insurance coverage can also play a role, as some policies reimburse only for adjustments and not for extended therapy sessions.
Which Approach is Best for You?
There’s no right or wrong answer—whether a shorter or longer session is best depends on your specific needs and what you’re looking for in chiropractic care. If you prefer quick, efficient adjustments, a high-volume clinic may be ideal. If you need a more in-depth, rehabilitative approach, a chiropractor who offers longer sessions might be a better fit.
At Epoch Health, we take an evidence-based approach, tailoring our treatments to suit each patient’s condition and goals. Whether you need a targeted adjustment or a more comprehensive treatment plan, we’re here to help you move and feel better.
Looking for the right chiropractic care for you? Book an appointment with Epoch Health today and experience personalised treatment that works for you.