FAQ'S

What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a registered primary health care profession. Chiropractors are regulated by the General Chiropractic Council. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose, treat, manage, and prevent disorders of the musculoskeletal system, (bones, joints, and, muscles,). They have a specialist interest in back and neck pain. Chiropractors use a range of techniques to decrease pain, improve function, and increase mobility, including hands-on manipulation of the spine.

What should I expect when I see a Chiropractor for the first time?

When you see a chiropractor for the first time, they will do a detailed assessment of your health. You will be asked questions about your current problem along with your past medical history, and overall health.

The chiropractor will perform a physical examination. A typical examination will include, vitals, posture assessment, range of motion testing, orthopedic and chiropractic tests. Your chiropractor may refer you for further imaging (x-rays, MRI, ultrasound etc.) or further tests.

Following the physical examination, the chiropractor will explain your condition and how chiropractic treatment may help. You will be given a care plan, which will set out what you can expect when receiving chiropractic treatment, the cost of care, and treatment options. You will be asked if you fully understand the treatment proposed and will be asked to give your written consent to treatment. If it is appropriate, your chiropractor will perform a treatment on the first visit.

Does the Chiropractor treat more than just back and neck pain?

Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat many different types of musculoskeletal conditions, such as pain in the shoulder, knee, elbow, wrist and foot and ankle pain. Many injuries create compensation patterns and alter how you move. Your chiropractor will look and treat the entire frame in order to get a patient to move optimally.

Treatment is tailored to your condition. A typical treatment will include chiropractic manipulation, along with other forms of “manual therapy” including, IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft-tissue Mobilsation), manual stretching, rehabilitative exercise, joint mobilisation, and kinesiology taping.

What is a Chiropractic manipulation or “adjustment”?

Manipulation involves the chiropractor using their hands to apply a quick, precise thrust to a restrictive joint. During the manipulation there may be a popping sound (similar to the cracking sound heard when one cracks their knuckles). This is simply the sound of gas bubbles popping as pressure is released in the fluid of the joints. Chiropractic manipulation is designed to free stiff or restricted joints.

The manipulation provides at neuro-muscular stimulation to muscles surrounding a joint in order to improve mobility and relieve pain.

Is a Chiropractic treatment safe?

As with any form of treatment or exercise that is applied to muscles and joints, there can be minor short-term pain or discomfort. This short-term discomfort commonly occurs in the initial stages of treatment and quickly subsides. Most experience a sense of relief from treatment. In the initial stages this relief may be short-lived, but this relief becomes more permanent as your condition resolves with further treatment.

The likelihood of having serious side-effects from chiropractic treatment are extremely rare. The research has shown that the risk of serious complications following spinal manipulation is extremely low. If your chiropractor identifies any possible risks, other techniques can be used.

If you have any concerns about the risks or side-effects of chiropractic treatment, your chiropractor will be able to discuss these concerns with you.

How many visits are required?

Following the initial exam, your chiropractor will inform you of the recommended treatment plan and what is required. This depends on the condition, severity of the condition, how long you have had the condition, and your health status.

Will the chiropractor provide home-care instructions?

The chiropractor will discuss pre-cautions to take at home, icing instructions, and instructions on work or sport capabilities as part of the initial exam. He will also recommend home exercises in order to improve range of motion, strengthen the areas of concern, and reduce pain.

Will the chiropractor communicate with my GP?

Following the initial examination, the chiropractor can provide a letter for your GP with your approval. This letter will provide a history of the condition, diagnosis, recommended treatment, expected outcome. When necessary, your chiropractor will liasse with you GP if further imaging (x-rays, MRI, ultrasound, etc), lab tests, or consultant referral is recommended. A letter may also be written to update your GP on the progress of your recovery and outcome of treatment.

Can I claim my treatment through third party insurance?

Many private insurance companies provide reimbursement for chiropractic services. It is recommended that you contact your insurance provider or policy on the benefits of your plan. Your chiropractor will provide a receipt of services provided, fill out any required forms, and provide any documentation provided for your claim.

How do I know if Chiropractic care is right for me?

Following the initial consultation, the chiropractor will explain your treatment options and any potential risks or side effects. You will be asked to sign a treatment consent. Your chiropractor will be able to tell if you would benefit from chiropractic treatment. The chiropractor is available for free phone consultations to discuss your problem and the benefits of chiropractic treatment.

Is the Chiropractor available for a phone consultation before booking?

The chiropractor is available for a phone consultation if there are any questions or concerns before booking.

What is IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft-tissue Mobilsation)?

IASTM is a form of tool assisted massage. IASTM is designed to provide a sensory stimulation to the injured or dysfunctional area in order to help the nervous system become more aware of the area. This awareness allows the patient to improve their movement in order recover from the injury.

What is Dry Needling or Medical Acupuncture?

Dry needling commonly referred to as Medical Acupuncture, is a form of acupuncture where a very thin single-use, sterile needle is inserted into the painful or dysfunctional muscle in order to cause localized inflammation, increase blood flow, and provide a neurological stimulation in order to decrease pain and induce healing. It has been shown to help decrease musculoskeletal pain in a variety of conditions.

If you would like to book an appointment or have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch by calling 0750 0062 177 or email rcrowleydc@gmail.com