Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to some of your most common questions about our services.
FAQ's
What should I wear?
Something comfortable is advised. I don't get you changed into a gown. I will stretch you where necessary so no skirts please.
Will it hurt?
During the examination I have to do movement tests that may aggravate the problem area, this can cause pain. It is advised to stay active and drink a glass of water after treatment to help flush the system. Also, it is normal to have post treatment soreness for a day or two after the appointment. This depends on how bad you are. If you are concerned take some pain relief and call me.
How many appointments do I need?
That depends on the extent of your injury. Expect constant improvements and if not I will refer for further investigations. I am results driven so most people improve in 3-6 appointments.
Are you ACC registered?
Yes! I can start a claim for you on the initial consultation or simply bring in your existing ACC45 number and you will only pay $75 for the initial consultation and $55 per follow up appointment.
Are there exercises I can do to help with care?
Yes. I will discuss your goals and advise you depending on what you want to achieve.
What happens on the first consultation?
On your first visit, history will be taken and an examination performed. This will include a range of motion testing, orthopedic tests, and neurologic tests where indicated. From these, the patient will be advised if x-rays or GP/specialist referral is recommended. A treatment will be given at this appointment if clinically indicated.
Can you have chiropractic while pregnant?
It is absolutely safe to have chiropractic treatment while pregnant. In fact, a lot of pregnant woman get back pain due to the weight of the baby pushing on the pelvis. Also, the table is designed to raise up in a section to allow for the baby bump. The only precaution I advise is for first time mom's not to have chiropractic in the first trimester as this is when you may have a miscarriage. It's not due to chiropractic but for some other reason and I would hate you to associate it with chiropractic.
What is a subluxation?
This is a term used to describe a vertebra (spinal bone) that has lost its normal position or motion affecting the surrounding function of nerves and soft tissue, contributing to pain, dysfunction, and loss of mobility. Chiropractic consists of correcting vertebral subluxations.
Conditions
What is back pain?
The most common type is lower back and neck pain. 80% of adults experience this at some point in their life. Often due to muscle or joint injury, less commonly disc or nerve injury.
What is sciatica?
This is lower back pain with shooting pains down the leg or legs (along the course of the Sciatic nerve). Due to lumbar disc injuries, spinal stenosis, degenerative spinal disease, or spondylolisthesis. Sacroiliac dysfunction and Piriformis syndrome can mimic sciatica.
What is neck pain?
Neck pain is commonly due to poor posture at the desk. Can cause headaches as well (defined as cervicogenic). Cervical dystonia can sometimes be confused for a trapped nerve in the neck.
What is cervical dystonia (Torticollis)?
Cervical Dystonia (Torticollis)Is a painful condition that causes the neck muscles to contract involuntarily.Your head may tilt to the spasmed side.Cervical dystonia can sometimes be confused for a trapped nerve in the neck.
What are cervicogenic headaches?
They are tension headaches thatfeel like a tight band that spreads around from the back of the head.Often due to stress, anxiety, depression or poor posture.
Chiropractic can help!
What is Hip pain?
This can be due to muscle or joint problems in the pelvis or lower back. Pain can radiate into the groin or lower back. Knee or foot problems can cause it also so the therapist may refer you on for further assessment.
Chest and rib pain
Can be due to thoracic joint dysfunction.Trapped nerves between the ribs can cause extreme and acute pain that mimics heart attacks. Called Intercoastal Neuritis. Can also be mistaken for shoulder pain.
What are Acute vs Chronic Injuries?
Acute pain is classified as pain there for less than three months. It can be sharp, severe and worsening.Chronic pain is classified as pain longer than three months. It can be constant or intermittent. Both are treatable with chiropractic.
Shockwave Therapy
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy uses high power ultrasound waves targeted at a specific area to produce a rapid increase and then decrease of pressure (the Shockwave) to breakdown damaged tissue and stimulate cytogenesis (cell growth)
What are the Contraindicationds of Shockwave?
You must not have Shockwave Therapy if any of the following apply to you:
Pacemaker or heart conditions,
Blood disorders/thinners,
Pregnancy,
Tumors in the area concerned,
Steroid use,
Cuts or abrasions .
What are the side effects of Shockwave therapy?
Any of the following may happen after Shockwave therapy. If you are concerned please contact the therapist.
Swelling and redness,
Numbness or itchiness,
Tenderness.