Frequently Asked Questions
ANSWERS TO SOME OF OUR CLIENTS MOST COMMON QUESTIONS
When you visit Kelly Chiropractic Clinic, we will discuss your current problem and general medical health. Some of the questions may not seem important, but they will help us to establish an overall picture of your health and determine whether Chiropractic care is appropriate for your condition.
With your consent, we will then carry out a physical examination using a range of orthopaedic and neurological tests, as well as an assessment of posture and range of motion to help us reach a diagnosis.
After your examination, we will talk you through our findings and discuss the best treatment options for you. If you are happy to proceed, and no further investigations are required, we will typically treat on the first visit. A first appointment normally takes around 40 minutes.
For most routine chiropractic appointments, you won’t need to remove any clothing. As long as the clothes you’re wearing allow you to lie down and move easily, your chiropractor should be able to perform an examination and treatment with you fully clothed.
Chiropractic is well recognised as a safe and effective manipulative therapy carried out by professionals who are trained to accurately diagnose and safely treat each patient. Chiropractors are highly qualified primary healthcare professionals who are registered and regulated by the General Chiropractic Council.
No, you do not need to be referred to us by your GP. However, if you have private health insurance and you would like to use your cover for chiropractic care, you may be required by your insurer to obtain a letter from your GP before seeing us.
There are many different chiropractic techniques but the main ones used involve joint adjustment, manipulation and mobilisation, massage, stretching and taping. Sometimes, a chiropractor will use dry needling to help treat muscle spasms and ease pain.
Every patient is different so your chiropractor will only use techniques that are appropriate, safe and effective for you.
Chiropractic adjustments usually involve a specific manipulation that helps to realign a joint, restore its normal movement, reduce pain and recover or improve joint function. There are many different types of adjustment and the most appropriate technique will be selected for each individual patient. Your chiropractor may use their hands, an instrument or a special table as part of your treatment.
When you are adjusted, you may hear a crack or popping sound. This noise is actually a release of gas from between the joints – like popping bubble wrap – not your bones cracking. It’s important to note that not all chiropractic techniques involve audible manipulation so don’t think if you can’t hear it, it’s not working!
A common misconception is that chiropractors only treat back and neck pain. While it’s true we are experts in these areas, we are also highly trained to treat pain and injuries that involve other joints, muscles and nerves in the body. Chiropractors do this by addressing joint dysfunction, postural issues and muscle imbalance or weakness.
Some common conditions we treat include headaches, shoulder pain, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, hip and knee pain, sprains and strains, sports injuries, tendinitis and plantar fasciitis.
Chiropractic care can be a highly effective way to manage and alleviate pain caused by headaches, including cervicogenic and tension headaches and migraines. Headaches can have many different causes such as injury, trauma, postural issues, tension and arthritis. Your chiropractor will assess potential causes and triggers by asking about your medical history and lifestyle. Treatment may include soft tissue therapy, spinal manipulation, exercises, massage and a detailed review of your potential lifestyle-related triggers.
Chiropractic care is considered safe during almost all pregnancies. Chiropractors are fully trained to treat pregnant mothers and use specific, gentle techniques to help relieve symptoms. Pregnancy can be tough on the body, causing pain in your back, hips, pelvis and other joints, especially as baby grows and gets heavier. Chiropractic care can help to ease this pain and discomfort and keep you moving. Always inform your chiropractor if you are, or think you may be, pregnant.
No! Chiropractic is a safe, gentle and effective treatment suitable for all ages – babies, children and adults.
This will depend on the nature of your problem, its severity and how long standing your symptoms have been. Our treatments plans will always be tailored to the individual patient and are evaluated during each visit. In some cases, a few treatments may resolve the problem completely but for others, a longer-term plan may be needed. In general, the longer you’ve been experiencing problems, the longer it will take to resolve. If appropriate, your chiropractor will also make a referral to other medical professionals.
Yes! During treatment your chiropractor will instruct you on specific exercises and give lifestyle guidance to help your condition.
