What is Chiropractic?
The word Chiropractic is derived from Greek and means 'to perform with the hands'. This is because the main component in a Chiropractor's treatment is the manual treatment of the joints and muscles of the body.
We know from paintings from ancient Egypt and Greece that the treatment we call Chiropractic was used thousands of years ago. However, modern Chiropractic was not founded until 1895 by Daniel David Palmer in the United States.
Although well known for treating neck and back pain, Chiropractors are specifically educated to examine any neuro-musculoskeletal condition, (that is any condition that appears to arise from Muscle, Joint, Nerve, Ligament, Tendon, or Bone), and in the treatment of many of these conditions with their hands. Conditions typically seen by Chiropractors include repetitive strains, lifting injuries, sports injuries, postural strains, occupational strains, tennis elbow, headaches, sciatica and of course neck and back pain. As of June 2001 the term 'Chiropractor' is protected by law - anyone referring to themselves as a Chiropractor has to be registered with the General Chiropractic Council, who can also provide details of registered Chiropractors.
What Happens When You Come To Us?
Before the course of treatment, the patient will have a medical history taken then both general health and your specific injury(s) are assessed. This examination involves specific orthopaedic and neurological testing and also may involve x-rays, blood pressure check, fundoscopy (checking back of eye), or urinalysis (kidney infections commonly present as back pain). Occasionally when a conclusive diagnosis is not reached we may refer you back to your GP for other specific tests (blood tests, scans) which are not available at this clinic prior to being able to commence treatment. The purpose of the examination is to decide whether the problem qualifies for Chiropractic treatment and also to make as precise a diagnosis as possible. In most cases treatment is usually possible on the day you first present to the clinic. If your condition is not appropriate for Chiropractic care, or if there are better treatment options available to you your Chiropractor can arrange a referral to the appropriate healthcare professional.
What do Chiropractors Treat?
Most people will consult a Chiropractor because of pains in their back and neck. But poor function of the muscles joints and nervous system can affect people in many ways. Common conditions that respond well to treatment by a Chiropractor include:
| Migraine Prevention | Tennis Elbow (Elbow Pain) | Cervicogenic (Tension) Headache |
| Joint Pain | Hip and Knee Arthritis Pain | Back Pain and Sciatica |
| Neck and Shoulder Pain | Plantar Fasciitis | Dizziness (BPPV) |
