Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
Is Chiropractic care safe?
Chiropractic is extremely safe and a low risk intervention. One area which has been received much attention is the risk of a stroke in neck adjustments. Research shows that this risk is about 1 in 2,000,000 to 5,000,000 neck adjustments, which is considerably less than the risk of having a stroke during surgery.
Occasionally patients may experience some mild pain or stiffness after an adjustment, however this is usually short lived and a good sign that we are making changes.
Is an adjustment painful?
No, a Chiropractic adjustment should not be painful at all. Some patients find it slightly uncomfortable however this is usually due to the associated clicking noise, which is due to small gas bubbles being released from the joint.
Do I need a referral from my GP or any other health care professional?
No, you do not require a referral from your GP or any other health care professional. Chiropractic is the third largest primary health care profession in the world after Medicine and Dentistry. However it is completely private and not covered by the NHS meaning you can self refer. In our practice we find that the majority of our patients are referred from other patients who have had great results.
How long will it take to get better?
This will depend on how long you have had the condition, severity, age, previous injuries, general health, diet, fitness, etc. Everyone is different however we would always advise to address your complaint as soon as possible and follow your recommendations in order to get the most out of your care.
Is it covered by insurance?
Yes you may be covered by insurance however this will depend on your policy. We recommend you check before you begin care.
Questions About Adjustments
Are Chiropractic adjustments safe?
Yes. A New Zealand government study found that adjustments are “remarkably safe.” Chiropractic care enjoys an excellent track record. A thorough exam can identify the rare person for whom chiropractic care might be unsuited.
Will adjustments make my spine too loose?
No. Only the spinal joints that are “locked up” receive adjustments. The occasional spinal joints that move too much, are passed over so weakened muscles and ligaments can stabilise and heal.
How many adjustments will I need?
The number of adjustments varies with each practice member and their individual health goals. Many practice members sense some progress within a week or two of frequent visits. Visits are less often as your spine stabilises. In difficult cases, complete healing can take months or even years.
Can I adjust myself?
No. Some people can make their joints “pop” but that’s not an adjustment! Adjustments are specific and take years to master. Even your chiropractor must consult a colleague to benefit from chiropractic care.
What does an adjustment feel like?
Most practice members report a sense of well-being or a feeling of calmness. Since repeated adjustments are necessary, if adjustments didn’t feel good, practice members wouldn’t return to finish their care. Chiropractors are experts at making adjustments feel good.
Can practice members with osteoporosis get chiropractic care?
Of course. When developing a care plan, your chiropractor considers the unique circumstances of each practice member. There are many ways to adjust the spine. The method selected will be best suited to your age, size and spinal problem.
Isn't some back pain normal?
Pain of any kind, at any age, is a sign that something isn’t right. Pain is the way your body signals that a limit has been reached or a problem has developed. Since we can adapt, minor aches and pains are often shrugged off. While they may go away, if the underlying problem remains unattended, the problem can slowly worsen until it becomes more difficult and expensive to resolve.
can I have chiropractic care after back surgery?
Yes. Rest assured that we will avoid the surgically modified areas of your spine. However, surgery may produce compensation reactions either above or below the involved level. If necessary, these other areas will be the focus of your chiropractic care.
