A beginners guide to chiropractic care

What is chiropractic care? Chiropractic care is a type of healthcare focused on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. Chiropractors use hands-on techniques to help improve movement, relieve pain, and support overall spinal health. 

Chiropractors may be able to address musculoskeletal issues like back pain, neck pain, and joint problems, as well as improving posture and mobility.

This article guides you through chiropractic care in simple terms and aims to better help you understand this ‘hands on’ form of healthcare.

What does a chiropractor do?

Chiropractors assess your spine and other joints to identify misalignments or restricted movement. Chiropractors use a range of different techniques to help address musculoskeletal symptoms. These may include:

The chiropractic adjustment 

A chiropractic adjustment is an applied controlled pressure to specific areas of the spine to improve movement and relieve pain.

Soft tissue therapy

Soft tissue therapy can be used to relieve tension, improve circulation, and promote healing in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Soft tissue techniques include massage, stretching, and pressure application to specific areas.

Exercise and stretching advice

Chiropractors often provide recommendations for exercises to support recovery and improve strength and flexibility. Exercise and stretching go hand in hand in managing spinal health.

Ergonomic and lifestyle advice

Your posture is the way you sit and stand. It is very important. Chiropractors may offer suggestions to improve posture and daily habits that may be contributing to discomfort.

So, when should you see a chiropractor?

Many people visit chiropractors for conditions related to the spine, joints, or muscles. Some common reasons include:

• Lower back pain - the most common reason patients see chiropractors
• Neck pain
• Headaches
• Joint stiffness or discomfort
• Posture problems
• Injuries from sports, work, or accidents
  
  

What to expect on your first visit?

When you visit a chiropractor, your first consultation usually involves a thorough examination of your medical history and a physical assessment. This may include checking your posture, range of movement, and testing muscle strength. Based on this, the chiropractor will recommend a treatment plan.

You may then receive your first chiropractic adjustment. 

It’s important to note that if your back pain, neck pain or other presenting condition does not respond to treatment within an expected timeframe, you may be referred to the appropriate health professional or specialist for further investigation or treatment.

Is chiropractic care safe?

Chiropractic care is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed professional. Some people may feel mild soreness after treatment, similar to how you might feel after exercise. Chiropractors take precautions to ensure treatments are appropriate for each individual. It’s important to note that no medical treatment is entirely risk free.

Do you need a referral to see a chiropractor?

No, you do not need a referral to see a chiropractor. Chiropractors are nationally registered healthcare workers and can form part of your allied health team. Simply call your local chiropractic clinic to book!

Finding an affordable chiropractor

Chiropractic care is often more affordable than people expect. In Australia, the average cost of a chiropractic consultation is typically $70 to $120 per visit, with initial appointments sometimes slightly higher due to the full assessment. Sydney Spinal Care offers new patients their first consultation complete with their first treatment for $99 - that's not bad.

If you are looking for an affordable chiropractor, check clinic websites for fee information, ask about new patient offers, and see whether your private health insurance includes chiropractic cover, which may reduce the out-of-pocket cost

One thing worth checking when comparing clinics is whether the initial assessment and Report of Findings are included in the consultation fee or charged separately. Some clinics bill these as additional items, so it is worth clarifying upfront so there are no surprises. The Back Clinic in Sydney, for example, includes the full assessment and Report of Findings within their new patient offer, with treatment only charged if you decide to proceed.

Key points

• Chiropractic care is a form of healthcare that diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal conditions, particularly the spine.
• Chiropractors use hands-on techniques to improve movement, relieve pain, and support spinal health.
• They can address issues like back pain, neck pain, joint problems, posture, and mobility.
• Chiropractic care is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed professional.Disclaimer: This article is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.
  

Author: Dr. Paul Lee (Chiropractor) is a distinguished Chiropractor with a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of chiropractic care. Dr. Paul runs Aurum Health Care, a top-rated Sydney chiropractic clinic. He completed his Master in Chiropractic at Macquarie University, Sydney, in 2009 and has since been a prominent figure in Sydney’s North Shore and Hills District, focussing on fast pain relief techniques for patients suffering from lower back pain and other musculoskeletal conditions.