The Performance Chiropractor

faq

What is Chiropractic? 

Chiropractic is a health profession specialising in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system.

Our profession has adopted a specialised approach to examination, diagnosis and treatment, based on best available research and clinical evidence with particular emphasis on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system.

Chiropractors are considered expertly qualified providers of spinal adjustment, manipulation and other manual treatments, exercise instruction and patient education.

Of utmost importance is collaboration with other health professionals for the most effective management of patients.

How does an “adjustment” or manipulation work?

The high velocity low amplitude thrust (meaning fast but not hard) places a rapid stretch through the soft tissue around the joint. This stimulates nerves to fire to structures in the brain, which in turn fire back down to the spinal column and joint.  This affects the control muscles of the joint, how the brain fires to that joint and the future of that particular messaging system. This mechanism also appears to have a calming effect on pain perception. It is control and not just strength that ultimately allows your nerve, muscle and joint systems to function optimally. 

Does a chiropractor only treat the spine?

Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat most disorders of the musculoskeletal system, including other areas other than the spine, such as the knee or shoulder. However, we do specialise in spinal disorders. The spine, functioning as the control pathway to the rest of your muscle and joint systems, is of central importance to the chiropractor. 

Will a chiropractor just “click” my back?

While many chiropractors choose to focus on spinal manipulation, many will use other soft tissue and treatment techniques to help facilitate the healing process. These may be things such as massage, ultrasound, dry needling, stretches and trigger point therapies, just to name a few. They will also give you educational advice so that you can take an active part in your treatment and future maintenance.

What can I expect from my first consultation?

Once you have arrived for your first consultation you will be given some paperwork to fill out to inform the chiropractor of your past medical history and current concern. The chiropractor will then go through this form with you so that they can elaborate on anything they may think is significant. 

After that you may be asked to change into a gown so that you can undergo a full physical, orthopaedic and neurological examination followed by some special tests. 

The chiropractor may require you to perform some activities from your particular sport or discipline to give them a better idea of your technique and movement patterns (such as playing your instrument or performing a particular acrobatic movement). 

When will I have my first treatment?

If the chiropractor thinks they are the best person to treat you, they will endeavour to begin treatment at the first consultation. However, if they think you should be referred to another professional or for further investigations, such as an x-ray, they may not be able to treat you until this is done.

Once I’ve been adjusted do I have to keep going forever?

This is a common question. No, is the short answer. Having said that, we hear from many patients that it is less about them having to keep going, and more about them wanting to keep going. Once you have had the experience of feeling everything working together and moving more smoothly, you tend to start to notice when things go “out” and this usually brings people back to our practices. Not because they have to, but because they now know what it feels like when everything is working well together.