FAQs

What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a primary health care modality, therefore no referral is required to see a Chiropractor. 

Chiropractors work with the structure of the body – primarily the spine and pelvis (but also knees, elbows, wrists and ankles) and through this effect the function of joints, muscles, as coordinated by the nervous system. Chiropractic works to improve movement in the joints to reduce pain and dysfunction.

What is a chiropractic subluxation?

Chiropractors detect and correct subluxations also known as biomechanical joint dysfunction. Subluxations are misalignments in the spinal joints and joints of the limbs that can impair optimal function of the nervous system. When the nervous system is functioning well, all the cells, tissues, muscles and organs of your body are better able to maintain homeostasis or balance. Subluxations may or may not cause pain.

Subluxations are caused by physical, mental/emotional and chemical stressors. Physical stressors include trauma, poor posture and repetitive movement. Mental and emotional stressors have a well documented physiological effect on the body and tissue healing and can range from stress over work, relationships, and finances. Mental and emotional stress has a major influence on health and wellbeing and pain perception in the body. Chemical stressors include preservatives, pollution, allergens, food colourings, prescription and illicit drugs, alcohol, caffeine and even things like a high fat and sugar diet!

How do Chiropractors adjust subluxations/joint dysfunction? 

Chiropractors adjust subluxations/joint dysfunction in the spine, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, ankles and feet. These adjustments are gentle and specific and may be done with the hands or an instrument. They can include high velocity adjustments as well as gentle mobilisations, and soft tissue techniques. 

An exercise programme may be included.

How often do I need to see a chiropractor?

The frequency of visits depends on the issues assessed and can vary due to chronicity of a problem (how long it has been there) and the type of dysfunction. Initially, the closer together the appointments, the quicker the resolution of the issue, however, this depends on the nature of the complaint. 

Do I need x-rays? 

You will be assessed individually to ascertain whether you need x-rays. Usually if there is a long-standing problem or trauma x-rays will be needed. If your Chiropractor refers you for spinal x-rays you will need to take your medicare card with you.

Can Chiropractors treat pregnant women and children? 

Yes. Chiropractic is effective in helping pregnant women with pelvic stability, decreasing pain and discomfort and assisting spinal and pelvic balance as the body changes. Please see Webster Technique for Pregnancy below. Children and babies can be checked by chiropractors using very gentle assessments and treatments. 

Do I need a referral from a medical doctor to see a chiropractor? 

No. Chiropractors are primary health practitioners (the third largest world wide after medical doctors and dentists). We can and do often co-manage patients with other practitioners like GPs, physiotherapists, psychologists, naturopaths and dieticians. We are also able to assist people who are referred for Chiropractic from their GPs under the GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP) Programme.

Do Chiropractors prescribe drugs? 

No. Chiropractic is non-invasive and drug and surgery free

How are Chiropractors trained/educated? 

Chiropractors must complete 5 years of university studies covering anatomy, physiology, biochemistry,  biomechanics, diagnosis, radiography, nutrition, chiropractic studies and clinic experience.

I am not suffering pain, should I still have a regular check up? 

Yes. If there is tension in the body or limitation in joint movement it can be useful to get an adjustment to improve range of motion. These changes in motion can occur before pain is felt.  Pain is the red alert system of the body and often the last indicator of a problem or dysfunction. Only 10% of the nervous system registers pain, so pain is often the last indicator of a subluxation or joint dysfunction.

When should I start seeing a Chiropractor for pregnancy?

You can see a Chiropractor all throughout your 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimester up until birth. The sooner patients start care, the better and easier it is to maintain pelvic alignment and a pain-free pregnancy. We also recommend post-natal Chiropractic care which can assist with neck and thoracic (midback) tension from breastfeeding. 

What does pregnancy Chiropractic treat?

The Webster Technique targets the joints, muscles and ligaments of and around the pelvis working to create more pelvic girdle space. Chiropractic in pregnancy also targets other issues such as neck pain, headaches, upper and lower back pain.

What will my appointment look like? 

During your appointment, your chiropractor, Dr Elena will assess your pelvic alignment and during treatment you will lie on a pregnancy pillow designed with a hole to ensure you and your baby are comfortable and safe. Treatment can also be undertaken on your side. After assessing and adjusting your sacrum, Dr Elena will perform soft tissue releases. Next, you'll be positioned on your back for an assessment/adjustment of your pubic symphysis, followed by additional soft tissue releases. Your appointment will last approximately 30 minutes, so there is ample time taken for your care and comfort. Dr Elena also prescribes exercises based on her assessment. 

Who can benefit from Chiropractic during pregnancy?

All pregnant women can benefit from Chiropractic adjustments during all stages of pregnancy to optimise pelvic function in pregnancy and birth. The use of Chiropractic adjustments during this time can also address any other musculoskeletal pain associated with pregnancy. 

Does Cosmetic Acupuncture hurt?

There is a possibility for some sensation but it should only feel like a subtle prick and will only last as the needle is being inserted into the skin. This will only last for a few seconds and the rest of your appointment should be relaxing and pain-free. 

Are there any side effects? 

Cosmetic Acupuncture is very gentle and after your appointment you should experience no downtime, this means you can continue with your regular makeup and skincare applications and can resume your daily activities - although we do recommend some rest following each appointment so your skin can begin to rejuvenate! 

Some people may experience redness of the face post-treatment (this is due to increased blood flow) and occasionally there can be some bruising to the face where the needles have been inserted. This should resolve itself in just a few days and should be pain-free. 

What types of needles do you use? 

We use high quality, specialised ultra-fine facial acupuncture needles from Japan, the needles are only 0.12 of a millimetre. 

Can I claim Cosmetic Acupuncture on Private Health Insurance?

No, because Private Health Companies have defined that you cannot claim Cosmetic Acupuncture.