Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is a primary health care modality so no referral is required to see a Chiropractor.
Chiropractors work with the structure of the body – primarily the spine and pelvis (but also other joints) and through this effect the function of joints, muscles, and as coordinated by the nervous system.
What is a Chiropractic Subluxation?
Chiropractors detect and correct subluxations. Subluxations are misalignments in the spinal joints and joints of the limbs that can impair optimal function of the nervous system. When the nervous system is functioning well, all the cells, tissues and organs of your body are better able to maintain homeostasis or balance. Subluxations may or may not cause pain.
Subluxations are caused by physical, mental/emotional and chemical stressors. Physical stressors include trauma, poor posture and repetitive movement. Mental and emotional stressors have a well documented physiological effect on the body and tissue healing and can range from stress over work, relationships, and finances. Mental and emotional stress has a major influence on health and wellbeing and pain perception in the body. Chemical stressors include preservatives, pollution, allergens, food colourings, prescription and illicit drugs, alcohol, caffeine and even things like a high fat and sugar diet!
How do Chiropractors Adjust Subluxations?
Chiropractors adjust subluxations in the spine, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, ankles and feet. These adjustments are gentle and specific and may be done with the hands or an instrument.
An exercise programme may be included.
How Often Do I Need to See a Chiropractor?
The frequency of visits depends on the issues assessed and can vary due to chronicity of a problem (how long it has been there) and the type of dysfunction.
Do I Need X-Rays?
You will be assessed individually to ascertain whether you need x-rays. Usually if there is a long-standing problem or trauma x-rays will be needed. If your Chiropractor refers you for spinal x-rays you will need to take your medicare card with you.
Can Chiropractors Treat Pregnant Women and Children?
Yes. Chiropractic is effective in helping pregnant women with pelvic stability, decreasing pain and discomfort and assisting spinal and pelvic balance as the body changes. Children and babies can be checked by chiropractors.
Do I Need a Referral from a Medical Doctor to See a Chiropractor?
No. Chiropractors are primary health practitioners (the third largest world wide after medical doctors and dentists). We can and do often co-manage patients with other practitioners like GPs, physiotherapists, psychologists, naturopaths and dieticians. We are also able to assist people who are referred for Chiropractic from their GPs under the Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) Programme.
Do Chiropractors Prescribe Drugs?
No. Chiropractic is non-invasive and drug and surgery free
How are Chiropractors Trained/Educated?
Chiropractors must complete 5 years of university covering anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, biomechanics, diagnosis, radiography, nutrition, chiropractic studies and clinic experience.
I Am Not Suffering Pain, Should I Still Have a Regular Check up?
Yes. If there is tension in the body or limitation in joint movement it can be useful to get an adjustment to improved range of motion. These changes in motion can occur before pain is felt. Pain is the red alert system of the body and often the last indicator of a problem or dysfunction. Only 10% of the nervous system registers pain, so pain is often the last indicator of a subluxation or joint dysfunction.