Is it SAFE ?
Chiropractic adjustments of the spine are internationally recognised as being far safer in dealing with neck and low back pain than medication and many other alternatives. (A Risk Assessment of Cervical Manipulation, JMPT 1995. Manga Report, Ontario Ministry of Health, 1993) Chiropractic treatment has been proven time and again to be safe, beneficial, time and cost effective for people from all walks of life - adults, children and babies.
Do I need a Referral ?
No! Anyone can visit a chiropractor from babies to the elderly. It is a safe, effective and proactive health care modality that seeks to enhance your health and prevent painful or degenerative conditions, illness and dis-ease. If you are unsure if Chiropractic can help you, check out the list of benefits at the top of this page, or contact our office for more information. Our home page lists a number of common conditions that can be helped with Chiropractic Care.
What is a vertebral subluxation ?
Vertebral subluxation is a chiropractic term that is used to describe myriad signs and symptoms (syndrome) thought to occur as a result of a misaligned or dysfunctional spinal segment. Chiropractors believe that a subluxation complex is a functional biomechanical spinal lesion that can alter neurological function, which in turn, is believed to cause neuromusculoskeletal and visceral disorders. Officially, the WHO definition of the chiropractic vertebral subluxation is: "A lesion or dysfunction in a joint or motion segment in which alignment, movement integrity and/or physiological function are altered, although contact between joint surfaces remains intact. It is essentially a functional entity, which may influence biomechanical and neural integrity." The purported displacement is not necessarily visible on X-rays.
What causes a vertebral subluxation?
A subluxation can occur for many reasons. Common causes are physical trauma such as improper lifting, car accidents, repetitive motions, poor sleeping habits, even the birth process. Poor posture, bumps and bruises and stress are also causes.
How do you know when you have a vertebral subluxation?
Sometimes we are not lucky enough to notice or recognise the warning signs of a subluxation. The results of vertebral subluxations can be almost invisible so often when we feel well we may assume that we are well. If a subluxation has been present for a period of time, signs may arise. For example, the signs may be loss of mobility, inflammation, swelling or tenderness. Muscle spasms, tingling sensations, weakness, dizziness, stiffness and loss of control over muscles/organs are also warning signs that something is wrong.
What is an adjustment?
When an adjustment is given, the chiropractor uses a carefully directed and controlled pressure in a precise direction to a joint that is fixated, 'locked up' or not moving properly. The chiropractor locates the vertebral subluxation by using their hands or special instruments and applies a specific force. This allows the body to correct the subluxation and restore nervous system function and normal vertebral motion, thus correcting the position and motion of spinal bones.
Will it hurt when I get an adjustment?
The spine becomes accustomed to its incorrect position over time, so the first time you get adjusted spine is it will stretch certain ligaments and muscles and alter the function of spinal joints. Most commonly people experience immediate relief following an adjustment. Occasionally they may feel minor discomfort as the body adapts to its altered position, however this is normal and only temporary.
Why do my bones make a cracking noise when I get an adjustment?
Lubricating fluids separate the bones of each spinal joint. Some adjusting methods can produce a sound when the gas and fluid in the joint shift. It is much like opening a bottle of champagne or removing a suction cap. The sound is interesting, but is not a guide to the quality or value of the adjustment.
Can I adjust myself?
No. Some people make their joints 'pop', but that is not an adjustment! Worse,damage can occur by mobilizing a joint with weakened muscles and ligaments. Adjustments are specific and take years to master. Even your chiropractor must consult another chiropractic practitioner to have his/her spine adjusted.
Can the bones move too much?
This is highly unlikely. A chiropractic adjustment is special. It has the right amount of energy, delivered to an exact spot, at a precise angle, at just the right time. The intent is to get a 'stuck' spinal joint moving again, helping to reduce nervous interference. Years of training, practice and experience make chiropractic adjustments specific and safe.
Are Chiropractors registered or licensed practitioners?
Chiropractors are most definitely registered and licensed practitioners. Every year chiropractors must renew their registration with the NSW Registration Board in order to continue practising.