FAQs
Is Chiropractic care safe?
In the words of the New Zealand Government’s Inquiry, chiropractic care is “remarkably safe.” Chiropractic care is generally considered safe but occasionally adverse reactions may occur. Our chiropractors undertake a thorough and comprehensive case history and examination before any treatment begins to determine the most suitable care, and options are explained and considered by you before you consent to our recommendations. Our approach is conservative with the safety and comfort of our patients always our priority.
What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment involves the use of a specific force in a precise direction, applied to a joint that is fixated, “locked up”, or not moving properly. This adds motion to the joint, helping the joints to gradually regain more normal motion and function. The objective of this procedure is to permit improved spinal function, improved nervous system function, and improved health.
There are many ways to adjust the spine, cranial bones and extremity joints of the body. Usually the chiropractor’s hands or a specially designed instrument delivers a brief and highly-accurate thrust. Some adjusting methods are quick, whereas others require a slow, constant or indirect pressure.
After years of university training and clinical experience, each chiropractor becomes highly skilled in the delivery of a variety of adjusting approaches.
Is chiropractic care appropriate for children?
Many parents choose to bring their babies and children to the chiropractor for the assessment of their neuro-musculo-skeletal system. It is important to ensure that the connections between the brain and body develop and function well. Infancy and childhood are times of rapid growth and change. A well-functioning nervous system can support the achievement of your child’s developmental milestones. We are committed to the careful assessment and gentle correction of your child’s spine and neuro-musculo-skeletal system to support their healthy development. Naturally, Chiropractic adjusting procedures are modified (low force and low amplitude) to a child’s spine, particularly babies.
Am I too old for chiropractic care?
More and more people are consulting chiropractors, especially in their later years. With growing concerns about the overuse of medication and the side effects of combining various prescription medications, chiropractic care is growing in popularity as a natural alternative.
Better spinal function may help improve an ageing person’s life. The adjusting techniques used by our chiropractors are modified for maximum comfort and results.
For how long will I need chiropractic care?
Chiropractic care is guided by your health goals and outcomes and so may range from a visit or two to a lifetime of care. In most cases due to the constant load of environmental stressors, ongoing supportive care may be required and is often recommended to help maintain optimal spinal and nervous system function. Some people seek chiropractic care only when their ache or pain becomes unbearable. While this style of “crisis management” is usually more costly and time consuming, our chiropractors are respectful of your health choices and are committed to help and support you, regardless of your health goals.
How long you decide to benefit from chiropractic care is always up to you.
Do chiropractic adjustments hurt?
In most cases, not at all. In fact, most people find having an adjustment very relaxing. With some adjustments you may sometimes feel or hear a popping sound from the spinal joints. This is simply caused by a gas release from the joint as spinal movement is restored, such as when a wet glass is removed from a table. Some Chiropractors use a hand held instrument to adjust the spine. Others use pelvic blocks to re-align the body. Special techniques are used for adjusting infants and children. Whatever the technique, Chiropractors use skill, not force or strength, to conduct a safe, effective adjustment.
What results can I expect?
If you’re new to Chiropractic care, you’ll want to know what type of result you can expect. Individual experience varies from person to person, but most people can expect some benefits soon after beginning care and for these to consolidate further as care continues.
Progressive examinations are done at regular intervals to monitor your progress.
Do you need a referral from a GP?
Chiropractors are primary contact healthcare practitioners therefore a referral is not necessary.