About Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic is a non-invasive approach to healthcare that focuses on diagnosing, managing, and preventing mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, specifically the spine. It prioritises drug-free and surgery-free treatments, addressing the impact of these disorders on both the nervous system's functionality and overall well-being.
There is an emphasis on manual techniques, including joint adjustment and/or manipulation, with a particular focus on subluxations.
What is a Subluxation (Chiropractic Definition)?
A lesion or dysfunction in a joint or motion segment in which alignment, movement integrity and/or physiological function are altered, although contact between joint surfaces remains intact. It is essentially a functional entity, which may influence biomechanical and neural integrity. (note: This definition is different from the current medical definition, in which subluxation is a significant structural displacement, and therefore visible on static imaging studies)
YOUR INITIAL VISIT
Starts with a discussion.
After reviewing the information provided on your new patient form, the chiropractor will engage in a conversation with you, asking questions to gain a clearer understanding of your specific concern.
Assessment
Our experienced chiropractors pride themselves on thorough assessments to uncover and inform you of the cause of your presenting concern. We may advise that spinal X-Rays or other imaging such as MRI or CT (CAT) scan should be performed to further assess your concern.
Diagnosis
This may be discussed on your first or second visit, dependent on whether the chiropractor is awaiting results of other tests, such as X-Rays, or if your case is complex and requires the chiropractor to take more time.
Treatment Plan
If we determine that another healthcare professional is better suited to address the cause of your problem, we will provide guidance and direct you to the appropriate resources.
When we believe chiropractic care can help you achieve your goals, we will offer our expert recommendation regarding the optimal course of action. This will include an estimation of the number of chiropractic appointments that may be necessary for you to experience noticeable improvements.
Subsequent Chiropractic Visits
Once a plan has been made to achieve your health goals, the following visits are much shorter in time, as the sole task to perform is the chiropractic adjustments (the term used to realign the joints of the spine) specific to you.
Progress Assessments
After completing the agreed-upon series of chiropractic visits, your chiropractor will conduct a progress assessment, which is included in the initial cost of your treatment. These assessments serve multiple purposes:
- to gauge the distance you have traveled from your initial state to the present
- to determine the remaining distance required to reach your desired outcome
- to evaluate whether adjustments need to be made to the frequency of your care.
- additionally, this is an opportune time for your chiropractor to introduce or modify any rehabilitation exercises or lifestyle advice as needed.
Nervous About Seeing a Chiropractor?
Rest assured, we have treated many patients facing similar challenges like yours. During your initial visit, our primary objective is to identify the root cause of your issue. Once we have thoroughly explained the diagnosis and recommended the most effective course of action, the decision to proceed with your first adjustment and begin your path to recovery lies entirely in your hands.
"We prioritise empowering you to make informed choices about your healthcare journey"
Our chiropractors use a variety of techniques including hands-on techniques (from firm to very gentle - suitable for infants), to using tools such as SOT wedge blocks, and Activator (‘clicky’ tool).
Don’t hesitate to call our office to ask questions. If you prefer, we can have one of our chiropractors speak with you personally over the phone before coming in.
