What is the difference between physiotherapy and Chiropractic?

The two methods are based on entirely different philosophies.

Functional problems of your spine and the painful response it causes in your central nervous system is the heart and soul of what we do as Chiropractors.

Our fundamental principle is based on the healthy function of your central nervous system and your body’s ability to self -heal once nerve interference is removed. Our focus is on how the nerve supply affects your muscles and organs; and how their relationship keeps the body functioning at its optimum.

Physiotherapy focuses on muscle and soft tissue injury to assist in speeding up the healing process through machines, exercises and rehabilitation work. Both are specialised techniques- and each profession within itself differs somewhat- as Chiropractors and physiotherapists will have their own unique approaches to managing your condition.

An important part of where and to whom you choose to go is that you feel comfortable discussing your needs, expectations, medical history and lifestyle.

Is Chiropractic care safe?

Extensive studies have shown that Chiropractic care is considered safe and effective for treating acute pain, chronic pain and injury prevention. The central component of Chiropractic is the management of the neuro-musculoskeletal system without the use of medication and surgery. Through extensive study and clinical training chiropractors are able to pinpoint the origin of your pain and use gentle adjustments, massage and stretching techniques to address the symptoms and treat the root cause of your pain.

Of course any type of procedure should only be performed by a qualified chiropractor who is properly trained in this area, and whose education and clinical experience complies with strict Australian standards.

What is a Chiropractic adjustment?

It is a specialised technique whereby gentle force is applied in a specific direction to unlock or realign a misaligned joint. This adds a better range of motion to the joint and gradually restores normal function to the spine, which in turn improves how your nervous system functions.

There are many ways to adjust the spine; the most common is by hand with a quick action; or with the use of an instrument called an activator which delivers an accurate thrust. Sometimes you may hear a cracking sound with a certain procedure, however this is not always the case.

Chiropractors are specifically trained to perform these procedures.

What causes vertebrae to misalign?

The body has an amazing ability to heal and regenerate itself from the daily stresses of living a physically and mentally active life. If you want your body to heal its organs, tissues and cells optimally you need your nervous system to function at its best, which in turn relies on the protection and health of your spinal column. Misalignment of vertebrae typically occurs due to some unfortunate side effects of enjoying life’s pleasures, such as sports injuries, falls, whiplash, car accidents, stress, poor posture, tension, overexertion and poor sleeping habits; along with some of the more pleasant ones such as pregnancy- which can cause muscle aches and joint pain.

Nerve interference caused by misalignment means your organs, tissues or cells won’t function as well as they are designed to, and it reduces your body’s ability to heal itself and maintain optimal health.

Detecting the problem, removing the interference and freeing up pinched nerves is the chiropractor’s area of specialty.

How many sessions will I need?

Each patient is different and this really depends on the condition of your spine to start with. If there is no sign of arthritis in your spine your symptoms would typically resolve faster than a person who does present with it. If you have long standing injuries that have been there for years, it would realistically need weeks, possibly months of care to fix.

The number of adjustments is also dependent on your individual health goals. Some people want periodic checkups to keep on top of their health. Others have a stressful or labour intensive job, or prolonged sitting and slouching at work and find that a schedule of preventative visits are helpful in the maintenance of good health and minimising the side effects.

Can I adjust myself?

No. By attempting to adjust yourself you are potentially creating more harm than good. Self adjustment usually affects the hypermobile segment and not the fixated one that needs the correction. Simply put, adjusting a person’s spine is an art and take years to master.

Will adjustments make my spine too loose?

No. Only the locked up joints receive the adjustment.

Am I too old for Chiropractic care?

More elderly people are turning to Chiropractic as a safe and natural option to pain management. This is due to the growing concern over side effects with some over the counter medications, combined with years of more traditional treatment which has proved costly and ineffective. Chiropractic care restores as much mobility to the spine as possible which can help with stiffness, aches and pains associated with the natural ageing process. The adjustment technique we use is modified depending on the age and condition of our patients to ensure maximum comfort during your visit.

Is Chiropractic care appropriate for children?

From the stress on your newborn’s skull, spine and neck during the birthing process to learning to walk, run ( and fall! ) as toddlers, misalignments of vertebra often occur. Many childhood problems brushed off as growing pains can be traced backed to the spine, and if treated early enough prevent a condition becoming more serious as your child grows into adolescence. Chiropractic care for children involves modifying the adjustment technique to accommodate a child’s spine, particularly babies.

Can I see a Chiropractor If I am pregnant?

Chiropractic is particularly beneficial for pregnant women due to the hormonal changes and stress placed on your body to accommodate for the extra weight of your growing baby. Optimising the function of your organs, tissues and cells through a healthy spinal column will help to keep your body as strong and stable as possible during your pregnancy. You may also find the delivery process a little easier with regular Chiropractic care in the lead up to your baby’s arrival. Our techniques will be modified accordingly to ensure you are comfortable.

Can I receive Chiropractic treatment if I have had back surgery?

Yes. Discussing your medical history is essential in determining the best way to manage your condition. We will not work directly on the operated area, focussing instead on the surrounding area. It is generally these surrounding sections which become sore, as instability occurs above or below that level.

Can I see a Chiropractor If I have osteoporosis?

Yes. There are many ways to treat your spine which are gentle and low force. We will take into account your age and extent of your condition, to ensure weakened bones are not compromised in any way.

Is Chiropractic covered by my private health insurance?

Yes. Nearly all health insurers cover chiropractic care in their ‘Extras’ cover. We also have HICAPS facilities so you can claim your rebate on the spot.

Is Chiropractic covered by medicare?

Medicare now covers up to a maximum of five Chiropractic treatments per patient per calender year. The patient must have had a complex or chronic condition of six months or more. The GP has to fill out an Enhanced Primary Care plan before you visit the chiropractor to be eligible.

Does Chiropractic care require a referral from my GP?

Chiropractors are primary health care practitioners hence a referral is NOT necessary. The GP can refer you to receive five treatments via Medicare(see above) through the Primary Enhanced Care Plan if you fit the criteria.

Do I have to take my clothes off?

Treatment is performed with your clothes on. If you are wearing bulky clothing such as heavy jackets they will need to be removed.

What results can I expect?

Your results will vary according to the type of problem you have, but the majority of our patients see improvements immediately after their first visit. Some may require a few sessions before noticeable results are felt; factors like age, the presence of arthritis and the medical history associated with certain conditions could slow your rate of progress.

An important note from us...

While there is no process that doesn’t require time to achieve its result, our primary objectives are to treat the cause of your pain, educate you on what else you can do to achieve optimal health and have you feeling better as soon as possible.
 

If you have a question, please contact us and we would be happy to assist you with further information.

Please click here to contact us for your consultation today