The Top Most Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chiropractic and how does it work?
Chiropractic is a primary health care profession that focuses on the art and science of the diagnosis and treatment of problems within the neuromusculoskeletal system,which is anything to do with muscles,bones and joints and how they all work together. A chiropractor helps to restore balance within this system,allowing your body to function better overall.
Is chiropractic evidence-based?
Chiropractic is a healing discipline firmly grounded in science. Few other health care interventions have been assessed as extensively as chiropractic manipulation,both in terms of safety and effectiveness. There have been at least six formal government studies into chiropractic worldwide over the last 25 years and all have concluded that modern chiropractic care is safe,effective,cost-effective and have recommended public funding for chiropractic services. In addition,there have been countless scientific clinical studies assessing the appropriateness,effectiveness,and/or cost-effectiveness of spinal manipulation or chiropractic manipulation,most notably for low back pain. The Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHI) now offers research grants in partnership with the Canadian Chiropractic Association to chiropractors and other scientists for high quality,chiropractic research.
What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a specific,non-invasive thrust or impulse delivered by hand (called a Manual adjustment) or by an instrument called an Activator. It may be assisted by a rapid “drop” of a section of the chiropractic table. It is fast,safe,and not painful. The purpose of the adjustment is to restore proper mobility within your joints,and improve the neurological and muscular function in the area.
Do adjustments hurt?
Adjustments do not hurt. However,there is often inflammation in the area of joints that are not functioning properly,and pressure on these area of inflammation may cause some discomfort. This discomfort usually quickly subsides after proper mobility is restored.
Are adjustments safe?
Yes. Many well-designed studies have found adjustments to be extremely safe. In contrast to many commonly used drugs and invasive surgery,chiropractic care is an extremely safe procedure with far fewer negative side effects. The most common complaint is a temporary soreness following a treatment session that usually subsides within 24 hours. However,a thorough examination will identify those for whom chiropractic adjustments may be unsuitable,and alternative treatment strategies would be recommended.
Why is there often a popping sound when a joint is adjusted?
Adjustment of a joint may result in release of a gas bubble between the joints that makes a popping sound – it’s exactly the same as when you “crack”your knuckles. It is not painful. It is caused by the change of pressure within the joint resulting in gas bubbles being released.
What services do you offer?
In addition to standard manual chiropractic techniques,Dr. Stacey has received specialized training in pediatric and prenatal care including Webster technique. I am also certified in ART® therapy and Orthotic therapy. I offer chiropractic adjustments,soft tissue therapy,and advice which includes specific exercises and recommendations to best maintain optimal health and function.
How long are your visits?
First appointments are usually about one hour,and includes a health review,and examination of the key area(s),and treatment. A typical subsequent visit is either 15 or 30 minutes. This includes working on muscles in the key area of focus,and adjustments throughout the skeletal system as needed. It also may include discussion of exercises and health strategies to allow you to best achieve your overall health.
Are all patients adjusted the same way?
No. There are many ways to adjust your joints and to restore your body to its optimal health. The method,or combination of methods will be selected to best suit your age,size,condition,and personal preferences.
Is chiropractic treatment appropriate for children?
Yes,children may benefit from chiropractic care. Children are very physically active and experience many types of falls and blows from activities of daily living as well as from participating in sports. Injuries such as these may cause many symptoms including back and neck pain,stiffness,soreness or discomfort. Chiropractic care is always adapted to the individual patient. It is a highly skilled treatment,and in the case of children,very gentle.
How many times do I have to come?
Each person is unique on every level. Therefore,it is impossible to know exactly how many times you will need to come. However,at the beginning of treatment,people usually come more frequently as the balance within their body is restored. As their body becomes more balanced and less symptomatic,they come less often. A typical first treatment plan may recommend anywhere from 2 to 10 visits.
When will I feel better after I start seeing a chiropractor?
Some patients experience almost instant relief. Others discover it can take many weeks. Many factors affect the healing process – How long have you had the problem? Are you getting proper rest,nutrition,and exercise? Are you negatively affecting your recovery in other ways,such as high stress,poor health habits (ie smoking)? Whatever the factors are,most patients sense positive progress within a short period of time.
What results may I expect from treatment?
That depends on your condition. One of the main reasons people choose chiropractic is that they often get quick results. Individual cases vary and chronic conditions usually need more treatment,but Workers’Compensation Board studies show that people with low back pain get back to work much faster with chiropractic care.
What if I feel fine? Do I still need to keep coming back?
The decision to continue with chiropractic care after your symptoms are resolved is always up to you. However,many people choose to continue with periodic care to maintain the positive progress and to prevent recurrences in future. Many people also find that they are better able to do their favorite activities by working with a chiropractor on a regular basis.
Often imbalances of the neuromusculoskeletal system go unnoticed until symptoms become acute and painful. Just as you see your dentist to have your teeth checked and your optometrist for eye exams,regular visits to your chiropractor can identify imbalances early,often preventing them from developing into major problems. Remember that your spine is also susceptible to wear and tear just like your teeth and eyes;give it the same preventative attention!
Can chiropractic treatment provide a preventative function?
Clinical experience suggests that individuals with chronic conditions such as degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis) or recurrent neck pain,back pain or headaches may experience less frequent and less severe symptoms when under regular chiropractic care. This also applies to individuals in highly stressful situations and those who experience repetitive physical and postural strain from their daily activities.
All information above is based on information provided by the Canadian Chiropractic Association