Frequently Asked Questions
- What is chiropractic?
"Chiropractic is a healing discipline firmly grounded in science. Although its main focus is the relationship between the skeleton (particularly the spine) and the nervous system that runs through it, chiropractic is concerned with the care of the entire body. Chiropractors use various diagnostic methods, including x-rays, to discover the state of your health, paying particular attention to your spine and bone structure. Spinal manipulation and other manual adjustments are their primary methods of helping your body heal itself.
The word chiropractic comes from a combination of the Greek words "chiro" and "praktikis", meaning "done by hand". "Treatment by hand" was an accepted form of therapy in ancient Greece. Hippocrates, who is regarded as the founder of medical inquiry, made the first recorded references to spinal manipulation. 1995 marked the 100th anniversary of the evolution of modern chiropractic. In recognition of this milestone, centennial celebrations were held across Canada and throughout the world. Canada Post issued a commemorative stamp in recognition of the centennial of the profession, and to honour its Canadian Found, Dr. Daniel David Palmer." (www.bcchiro.com)
To learn more visit the Canadian Chiropractic Association.- What conditions benefit from chiropractic care?
- Although chiropractic is used most frequently to relieve low back pain, studies have found it to be effective for a variety of conditions, such as migraine headaches, neck and shoulder pain, rib pain, foot pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and infantile colic.
- Does Chiropractic hurt?
- Under normal circumstances, adjustments don't hurt. The patient may experience a minor amount of discomfort during the adjustment which lasts only seconds. Chiropractic adjustments are comfortable and safe for the whole family, from infants to pregnant women and the elderly. For hundreds of thousands of Canadians, visiting a chiropractor is just routine - like regular dental check-ups.
- Is Chiropractic safe?
- Chiropractic adjustments or manipulations are extremely safe. Chiropractic has an excellent safety record. It is the result of a conservative approach to health that avoids invasive procedures or addictive drugs.
- What kind of education and training do doctors of chiropractic have?
- After completing undergraduate requirements, Chiropractors receive an additional four years education that emphasizes neuromuscular diagnosis and treatment. Preparation for the practice of chiropractic is concentrated on three areas of learning; basic training in the biological and health sciences (anatomy, physiology, histology, biochemistry, clinical and radiological diagnosis); specialized training in the chiropractic discipline (theoretical studies, practice, diagnosis and applications); and extensive clinical training.
Prior to starting practice, candidates must pass a series of rigorous National Board Examinations and Provincial licensing board exams before being granted the privilege to practice.
- Have any studies been published showing what chiropractic is effective for?
- Several studies have documented the effectiveness of chiropractic in relieving back pain. More recent studies have shown chiropractic to be effective in treating low back pain, rib dysfunction, infantile colic and migraine headaches.
- What can I expect on my first visit?
- The first thing a chiropractor will do is ask you about the health complaints about which you are chiefly concerned. The DC will also ask about your family history, dietary habits, other care you may have had (physiotherapy, massage therapy, medical, etc.), your job, and other questions designed to help determine the nature of your illness and the best way to go about treating the problem.
A physical examination will be performed in accordance with your DC's clinical judgement, which may include x-rays, laboratory analysis and other diagnostic procedures. In addition, a careful spinal examination and analysis will be performed to detect any structural abnormalities which may be affecting or causing your condition. All of these elements are important components of your total health profile, and vital to the doctor of chiropractic in evaluating your problem.
- How does your office differ from other chiropractors?
- Our technique offers not only relief of symptoms, but correction of poor posture responsible for pain and discomfort. Our office uses various spinal traction techniques to take the pressure of the joints and promote faster healing. We provide exercises, stretching and deep muscle treatment.
The adjustment may be performed in diverse ways tailored to the patient’s condition, tolerance and wishes. Instead of manual manipulation (where you hear the cracking or clicking sound) we may use mobilization or a hand held instrument called an Activator
Chiropractor for the