Frequently asked questions

The term ‘Chiropractic’ was derived from the Greek words 'cheiros' & 'praktikos' & translates to ‘done by hand’.
As a manual therapy, chiropractic is known for its manipulative (adjustments) to the spinal, pelvic & peripheral joints.

When people think of Chiropractic, they frequently only think of spinal manipulation; however we routinely assess & work with all regions of the body, from head-to-toe.

We consider the contribution of the fascia/soft tissues & how appropriate load share across these soft tissue elements may be impacting not only your joint function, but also your movement capacity, balance, pain perception & strength. We aim to address all of these factors when we work with you.

We can also provide advice on appropriate exercise approaches, ergonomics & self-care techniques that allow you to better take care of yourself at work, the gym, or at home.

The 3 most common conditions that people consult a chiropractor for are back pain, neck/shoulder pain & headaches; however, these are not the only conditions that respond to contemporary chiropractic care.

We enjoy managing a broad-range of musculoskeletal complaints & some people are surprised to learn that we have patients presenting for lower or upper limb pain, jaw pain, vertigo or other conditions that they wouldn't have necessarily considered a 'traditional' chiropractic presentation.

We also see people who present to our office that do not have any symptoms at all - they simply want to move & perform better in their chosen activities & address any small niggles or limitations before they become bigger issues.

For example; a painless reduction of internal rotation of the left hip can wreak havoc with a right-handers golf swing & they are typically very pleased to get that range back!

We always want to know about past trauma's & their chronology, so a timeline of past injuries (sprains, broken bones / fractures, concussions), surgeries or major accidents is VERY helpful. Previous injury is the number one risk factor for future injury, so knowing what has happened to you in the past can help us to contextualise what is happening with you now.

You should bring along with you the results of any imaging studies or other tests you may have had done & also the images themselves if you have access to them.

During your appointment you will typically be asked to perform various movement assessments. For this reason, it is best to wear loose, comfortable clothing that doesn't restrict your movement. Tracksuit pants, active wear, t-shirts or singlets are all great choices.

Your modesty is of utmost consideration & is preserved at all times. Gowns can be provided upon request.

No.

A referral is not required, although we always welcome open communication between our practice & your GP.

More GPs are now referring to chiropractors under the new Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan under Medicare, although only certain patients qualify for a rebate. You will need to check with your GP, to see if you qualify.

** Please note that this plan does not cover the total cost of the appointment & there will be a 'gap' payment required (i.e. we do not 'bulk bill').

Before attending your appointment, you will be sent an initial history form to complete online, prior to your appointment.

At your first appointment we will discuss the key findings from the history form, along with your health goals.

We will then perform a physical examination, in order to establish the best way for us to help you. This will usually begin with overall movement assessment to create a baseline for your general movement health.

We then progressively narrow in our focus to more specific assessments based on both your presenting symptoms & where your major movement deficits are. Orthopaedic testing can also help us to identify which bodily structures may be irritable.

This stepwise approach helps us to see how dysfunction in one area of your body might be causing compensatory changes elsewhere & which tissues may be involved.

Once this is completed, a palpatory assessment will begin on the areas of chief concern highlighted through your movement screening.

The results of your movement assessment will be combined with your palpatory findings & discussed with you, along with a plan moving forward on what we think will be the next best steps.

If we feel treatment is appropriate on the day & you agree, treatment may begin on your first visit.