Chiropractic FAQ's
1. What is chiropractic?
2. What conditions do chiropractors treat?
3. Is chiropractic treatment effective?
4. Is chiropractic treatment safe?
5. What type of education and training do chiropractors have?
6. How is a chiropractic adjustment performed?
7. Does chiropractic treatment require a referral from an MD?
8. Do insurance plans cover chiropractic?
9. What can I expect on the first visit?
10. Can I get an appointment the same day?
What is chiropractic?
Chiropractic is based upon the understanding that health depends, in part, upon a normally functioning neuro-musculoskeletal system (nerves, muscles and bones, chiefly in the spine). It looks to address these diseases not by the use of drugs and surgery, but by locating and adjusting a musculoskeletal area of the body which is functioning improperly.
What conditions do chiropractors treat?
Chiropractic care is used most often to treat complaints including, but not limited to back pain, neck pain, joint pain in the hands, elbows, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles, sports injuries, pinched nerves and headaches.
Is chiropractic treatment effective?
Yes. Chiropractic care is both safe and effective. Scientific evidence proving that chiropractic care works is overwhelming. Based on these numerous scientific studies, the consensus is that chiropractic care is the treatment of choice for most spinal problems.
Is chiropractic treatment safe?
Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of neuro-musculoskeletal complaints. The risk associated with chiropractic care is smaller than that of common pain medications. According to a study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, approximately one-third of all hospitalizations and deaths related to gastrointestinal bleeding can be attributed to the use of aspirin or NSAID painkillers like ibuprofen.
What type of education and training do chiropractors have?
Our Vancouver chiropractors are educated as primary contact health care practitioners, just like your family physician, optometrist or dentist but with a specific emphasis on musculoskeletal diagnosis and treatment. The typical chiropractor will have at least 7 years of post-secondary education, with the chiropractic curriculum comprising of 4 years of intense classroom, laboratory and clinical education.
How is a chiropractic adjustment performed?
Our Vancouver chiropractors typically use their hands to manipulate the joints of the body, particularly the spine, in order to reduce pain, and restore or enhance joint function. Chiropractic manipulation is a highly controlled procedure that rarely causes discomfort. Treatment often includes soft tissue therapy, modalities and rehabilitative stretches and exercises.
Does chiropractic treatment require a referral from an MD?
No, a patient does not need referral by an MD before visiting a doctor of chiropractic. Our Vancouver chiropractors are first contact physicians, and are so defined in provincial and federal regulations. Following a consultation and examination, the doctor of chiropractic will arrive at a diagnosis and treatment plan, or refer the patient to the appropriate health care provider.
Do insurance plans cover chiropractic?
The majority of all insured Canadian workers have some coverage for chiropractic services in their extended health care plans. Chiropractic is partially covered by MSP for those who are on premium assistance, and by ICBC or WCB for those who have a valid claim.
What can I expect on the first visit?
Our Vancouver chiropractors will conduct a thorough history of your current complaint, previous treatment, and relevant medical history. A full physical examination will be performed, including nerve and muscle testing and a comprehensive spinal examination. A treatment will usually be given, followed by home exercises. On the second visit, your chiropractor will take the time to discuss with you your diagnosis, your home exercise program and your treatment plan.
Can I get an appointment the same day?
Our Vancouver chiropractors have a policy of holding several appointments each day for emergency or last-minute patients. We will always attempt to accommodate your health needs. Booking in advance, however, assures that you will secure the time that is most convenient for you.
