FAQ's
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Is chiropractic treatment safe?
Yes, chiropractic treatment has been proven to be remarkably safe. Chiropractic is a holistic, non-invasive approach to health. No surgery or drugs are involved, however we appreciate the benefits of certain painkilling and anti-inflammatory medication during the acute phases of an injury. Chiropractic is the worlds third largest health care profession after medicine and dentistry and over the past 100 years millions of people have found help from chiropractic care, even after surgery. Over the years various people have expressed concerns about the safety of neck manipulation in the treatment of neck pain and headaches. However, these concerns have now been proven to be unfounded. No treatment is completely risk free and your chiropractor will explain possible risks of treatment and discuss any concerns you may have prior to commencing with treatment.
What about my GP - do I need a referral?
Unless your medical insurance requires a GP referral you do not need to see your GP before visiting us here at Falcon Health. Virtually all GPs will be quite happy for you to choose to have chiropractic treatment. However, despite both The General Practitioners Committee and the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommending chiropractic for low back pain not all GPs know enough about our profession to suggest it to you. There is also substantial research evidence supporting the use of chiropractic for neck pain, whiplash injuries, headaches, migraines, shoulder pain, hip and knee arthritis, and more. In general we enjoy a good working relationship with the more traditional medical professions and we regularly receive referrals from GPs and medical doctors and specialists. We like to send your GP a letter outlining your reason for seeking our help and how we have got on. However, we will not do so unless you give your written consent.
Does the treatment hurt?
Well, it depends. If acute muscle spasm and/or inflammation are present in the area to be treated some discomfort is unavoidable. Your chiropractor will ask you for feedback on the severity of the pain you feel and adjust the treatment accordingly. You may also experience some soreness after the treatment - rarely a bruise. This will soon pass as your body begins to heal and adjust. Your chiropractor will be able to tell you if this is likely to happen and how to minimise any discomfort.
How soon will I feel better?
This will depend on the individual problem, how long you've had it, how bad it is and how many areas and tissues are affected. Whilst every patient reacts differently, your chiropractor will be able to advise you on your likely recovery time. In most cases you will feel a definite change for the better early on in your treatment plan. Most patients do express feeling 'better' or 'lighter' after just one or two treatments, but in general, the longer you've had it, the longer it will take to get better. Your commitment to the recommended treatment plan, home exercises, and any postural and lifestyle adjustments will also determine your treatment outcome and your long term benefits from chiropractic care.
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How often do I need to go?
The frequency and the amount of treatment you require depend on several factors: Your specific health problem, how long you have had it, how severe it is, how many areas and tissues have become affected and to what extent etc. Your individual treatment plan and how well you are likely to get will be explained during your initial consultation. Your goals are very important in determining this - do you just want crisis care for pain relief or are you looking for a more permanent solution? Most people we consider will benefit from the full 3-stage care package but ultimately it is up to you to decide how long you wish to benefit from chiropractic care. The 3 stages of care:
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Crisis care (once or twice per week)
to provide pain relief and postural stability. Usually 2-4 weeks. -
Rehabilitative care (weekly to fortnightly)
to complete healing of the condition. Strengthening and re-education of the affected muscles.
Usually 4-6 weeks. -
Maintenance care - Ongoing - usually once every 2-4 months.
To minimise the risk of recurrences and to optimise function and performance
Is chiropractic suitable during pregnancy?
Yes, chiropractic treatment is suitable and safe throughout the pregnancy and after giving birth. Chiropractic care can help with common problems associated with pregnancy such as pain in the back, neck and shoulders, joint and muscle aches and pains.
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Is chiropractic suitable for sports people?
Yes. In essence sports people are no different from ‘normal’ people. However, sports performance often puts higher demands on the structure and function of the muscles and joints and therefore athletes may require a higher intensity and frequency of treatment.
How many chiropractic sessions do you need?
The length of care depends on the healing abilities of each person. Results may vary from person to person due to the amount of damage to their spine and nervous system. Your current condition determines the frequency of your office visits. It may take longer to correct subluxations that have been present in the spine for many years. As your subluxations become manageable, your frequency of visits will be decreased to a wellness schedule.