Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ’s about Chiropractic Care
Got a question about chiropractic care or how it could help you? Listed below are the most frequently asked questions (FAQ) that we have received in over 30 years of practice.
If you have any other questions please contact us and we will get back to you with the answer.
What happens when I go to the chiropractor?
The aim of your initial visit is to establish what is causing your symptoms and how to correct the cuase. Once we have that information we sit down with you, discuss what problems we discovered and the treatment options available to you before any treatment is commenced.WHAT ARE A CHIROPRACTORS QUALIFICATIONS?
Chiropractors are highly qualified health care professionals that are regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). In Australia, Chiropractors are required to study an extensive approved and accredited five-year university degree. This consists of either a five-year bachelor of Chiropractic, or a three-year bachelor followed by a two-year Masters degree. It is also possible to apply for registration in Australia if a chiropractor has completed a program or degree that is approved by the Council of Chiropractic Education Australasia (CCEA) who assesses the quality of knowledge, education and training.
Currently, chiropractic degrees are offered at four Australian Universities. RMIT University (VIC), Macquarie University (NSW), Murdoch University (WA) and Central Queensland University (QLD, NSW).
In addition to their education/ degree, chiropractors are required to continue training and learning throughout their career in order to maintain registration. This involves completing continued professional development (CPD) training or seminars on a yearly basis.
Do I have a pinched nerve?
Do I have a slipped disc?
The disc is a soft pulpy “shock absorber” located between the two vertebra. It has a fibrous outer ring which holds in a jelly-like material. A “slipped disc“ is a common way to refer to a wide variety of disc problems. However, a disc can’t slip because of the way it attaches to the spinal bones above and below it. A disc can bulge,tear, herniate, thin,dry out and it can collapse. It definitely can’t “slip out of place”. Find out more detailed information about disc problems.
What is the popping sound?
Do I need a medical referral?
You are eligible for up to 5 visits from a chiropractor under Medicare however you do need a referral for this. For details go to our “Does medicare cover Chiropractic”
Do I need x-rays?
At your examination your chiropractor will determine if x-rays are required. If x-rays are necessary, you will be given a referral to have them taken at a x-ray clinic. These costs are fully covered by Medicare. If you have had any spinal x-rays, bring them with you on your first visit as this will help determine the best treatment for you.How many adjustments will I need?
Does it hurt to get adjusted?
An adjustment is not normally painful however in some cases, mild soreness to the area being adjusted may be experienced. These symptoms are often a normal part of the healing process as your spinal movement improves.How long until I feel better?
Whilst some patients experience almost instant relief nearly all patients are feeling much better within one to two weeks. There are many factors that affect your rate of healing such as your age, the type of injury, your general health and how long you have had the problem.Will I have to go to a chiropractor forever?
Can I adjust myself?
Is it ok to see a chiropractor if I am pregnant?
Yes!!!! Many pregnant mums, new mums and babies receive chiropractic care. Some mothers find that chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy helped with their back pain and other related musculoskeletal pain. Our adjusting methods are always adapted to a patient’s size, weight, age, and condition of health to provide the most suitable care.Will osteoporosis prevent me from getting chiropractic care?
can children benefit from chiropractic care?
Falls you have when learning to walk, riding a bike, and other childhood activities can potentially cause spinal problems.
Chiropractors have long believed that chiropractic care may be able to help avoid musculo-skeletal problems caused in the day to day life of children however this is yet to be scientifically proven.
Can I tell if my spine is working properly?
Unfortunately, you can’t. Whilst spinal problems will eventually cause many symptoms, they can often be present and undetected for a long time.
What if getting my neck treated makes me nervous?
There are many techniques that do not involve “manipulation” that we can use to try to correct neck problems. We will only include neck adjustments in your treatment if there is an objective clinical reason for doing so. We will only use these techniques after we have discussed with you and are happy with the treatment.
We don’t include neck adjustments in your treatment if there are any indications that you would be at risk. Talk to us about your concerns.
Can I have chiropractic care after spinal surgery?
Is chiropractic care covered by Medicare?
Is Chiropractic Care covered by Workers Compensation and Veterans Affairs?
Patients with a Work Cover injury first need to see their GP and get a referral to the chiropractor. In addition, your supervisor at work needs to lodge the necessary papers concerning the injury, along with the referral to Work Cover. Work Cover will assess the claim and if accepted will allot a ‘Claim Number’. When the claim number is available your chiropractor can forward the cost of your visits directly to Work Cover.
Veterans wishing to see a Chiropractor also need a referral from their GP; this referral is valid for 12 months, after which time a new one is required. At the first appointment we also need to take details from your Vet Card. After each visit you are required to sign the treatment form and the account is sent directly to Veterans Affairs for payment.
