Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT HAPPENS AT MY FIRST VISIT?
We take pride in making you feel welcome and assisting you to better health. Your journey begins with a welcoming smile and a short health questionnaire. Your chiropractor will then ask you some detailed questions about your health history and perform a thorough examination. If necessary, radiographs (x-rays) which are covered by Medicare can be obtained to help diagnose any problems and plan your treatment. An explanation of your condition will be given where you can ask questions about the type of treatment and how long it will take. Where it is appropriate, treatment can begin at the first appointment.
WHAT IF I HAVE A DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN’S AFFAIRS (DVA) CARD?
Chiropractic care is covered by the Department of Veteran’s affairs for all Gold Card holders. Just ask your General Practitioner for a referral for chiropractic management so that we can help you get the most out of life.
WHAT IF I AM INVOLVED IN A MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT AND WANT TO CLAIM CHIRPORACTIC CARE?
If you have been involved in a road accident that was not your fault, then you are entitled to chiropractic management to help you recover as quickly as possible. No referral from your General Practitioner is necessary and in most cases we can bill your fees directly to the insurer. Even minor accidents can have a damaging effect on your spinal health and early intervention can save you years of unnecessary discomfort. Please notify our staff that you have been in a motor vehicle accident when you make your first appointment.
AM I ABLE TO CLAIM CHIRPORACTIC CARE FOR WORKERS’ COMPENSATION?
If you have been injured at work then you are covered by your employee’s compulsory insurance. It is a legal right for you to choose who treats your injury. Simply contact our office and we can help you begin your claim (first treatment certificate) and get back to health as soon as possible. If you require time off work due to sickness or injury your doctor of chiropractic is licenced to provide an off-work certificate. In most cases, it is possible for us to deal directly with the employer or their insurer and let you concentrate on your rehabilitation without unnecessary stress.
WHAT IS AN ADJUSTMENT?
An adjustment is the precise technique used by chiropractors to improve spinal function. Once nerve interference has been detected your chiropractor will choose a technique that suits your age, body type and condition. Adjustments are designed to be as specific, effective and comfortable as possible. By returning the spinal bones (vertebrae) to their proper function and position interference is reduced on the spinal nerves allowing the body to heal and function to its optimum. A common form of adjustment uses a well controlled quick thrust which can result in a “popping” sound caused by gas shifting within the affected joint. The presence of this noise has little meaning and will be absent when other techniques are used. Another form of adjusting is to use a hand held instrument to deliver a constant and measured force. Chiropractic adjustments are extremely effective and considered to be very safe.
IS CHIROPRACTIC SAFE?
Whilst all health care procedures are associated with some risks, chiropractic care is recognised as being a very effective and safe method of care for many conditions. At your first visit your chiropractor will explain what treatment is best for your condition and if there is anything you need to be aware of. You will be given an opportunity to ask questions and you must tell us that you want treatment (consent) before care is provided to you. It is always your choice. Chiropractic is a natural approach that enhances the body’s own ability to heal without risking the dangers associated with drugs or surgery. Your chiropractor is trained to recognise when it is not appropriate to give treatment and when to refer for other specialist opinion. You are in safe hands.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO FEEL BETTER?
Everyone is different so chiropractic results vary. Some people feel better very quickly while for others healing can take several months or longer. At Northern Districts Chiropractic Centre we explain what your choices are for managing your condition. Some people who experience the effectiveness of chiropractic and learn how important your spine is for optimum health will choose to attend for regular checkups called “Wellness Care.” Whatever you require and whatever you choose, your chiropractor will work with you to get the most from your body.
WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DOES A CHIROPRACTOR HAVE?
To become a Chiropractor requires a 5 year full time university education with about the same number of lecture hours as a medical degree. Chiropractors study anatomy and physiology, body mechanics, pathology, radiology, biochemistry, nutrition and adjusting techniques to place them in a unique position to promote better health. Chiropractors are then required to do further post graduate training to keep their expertise and knowledge up to date. In Western Australia a 5 year program is offered through Murdoch University while interstate courses are run in Sydney and Melbourne. Doctors of Chiropractic are highly trained in health through spinal care.