Frequently Asked Questions
Can Chiropractic help me?
Chiropractic care can be of benefit to many people suffering pain and dysfunction. Shall a problem be diagnosed, Chiropractic adjustments may help. The degree of response can vary due to time the condition has existed, the lifestyle of the patient and one's compliance to care recommendations.
Does the adjustment hurt?
Typically, no. We take every measure to deliver a gentle and effective adjustment. If one is experiencing a high degree of pain, such as an acute episode, simply touching the spine may hurt. In these situations, your Chiropractic doctor may apply ice for up to 15 minutes to reduce any discomfort that may occur during the procedure.
What is that cracking sound?
Joints are highly pressurized. During adjustment, joint surfaces slightly move, allowing for nitrogen gas to escape from an area of high to low pressure. This sudden movement of gas results in a unique sound that can be heard.
How many adjustments will I need?
It is difficult to predict exactly how many visits a new patient will need to resolve their initial complaint because each individual's injury and healing response is generally different. Experience allows us to give each patient an estimate on how long their recovery may take after the initial exam. We have a much clearer picture after 2-3 visits.
Does Everyone Need X-Rays?
Not all patients require an X-Ray before commencing care. Our chiropractors assess each case on an individual basis to determine whether an X-Ray is necessary. Factors increasing the likelihood of requiring X-Rays include previous history of trauma to the spine, chronic problems, signs of nerve irritation, arthritis, and history of serious illness.
Who can be checked for Chiropractic problems?
Anyone from infants to the elderly may carry problems that can benefit from Chiropractic care. A thorough history and examination will determine if you are a suitable candidate for Chiropractic care. There is a common concern among parents who might think their children will receive similar force adjustments to the ones they received. Firstly, a chiropractic examination is required to determine if a spinal dysfunction is involved. If treatment is required, adjusting techniques are modified to low-force, where no more pressure is applied than what would be used to test the ripeness of a peach.
Do I need a referral from my medical doctor to see a chiropractor?
Although we receive referrals from General Practitioners and other health care professionals you do not require a medical doctor referral to see us. Chiropractors are primary health care practitioners and no referral is required.
What if my problem is not one that required Chiropractic?
Being a primary contact practitioner your chiropractor will know when to refer you to another appropriate provider. Chiropractors are trained in organ systems diagnosis along with musculoskeletal diagnosis and are trained under what circumstances to refer accordingly.
Is Chiropractic safe?
Like many procedures in health there is also risk with the application of Chiropractic. Chiropractors are trained to mitigate risk with thorough history taking, detailed examination and appropriate technique selection for the individual.
Can I have Chiropractic after back surgery?
Yes. Rest assured that we will avoid the surgically modified areas of your spine. Instability may occur above or below the surgical level. This will be the focus of your Chiropractic care.
Isn’t some back pain normal?
Pain of any kind, at any age, is a sign that something isn't right. Pain is the way your body signals that a limit has been reached or a problem has developed. Since we can adapt, minor aches and pains are often shrugged off. While they may go away, if the underlying problem remains unattended, the problem can slowly worsen until it becomes more difficult to resolve.
Can patients with osteoporosis have Chiropractic care?
Of course. your Chiropractic doctor considers the unique circumstances of each patient. There are many ways to adjust the spine. The method selected will be best suited to your age, size and condition.
Can I adjust myself?
No. Some people can make their joints "pop" but that's not an adjustment! Worse, damage can occur by mobilizing a joint with weakened muscles and ligaments. Adjustments are specific and must only be applied to the joint that is subluxated. It take years to master and even your Chiropractic doctor must consult a colleague to benefit from Chiropractic care.