Understanding Chiropractic Care: Answers to Your Most Common Questions
- Julian Simpson
- Jul 9
- 7 min read
Updated: Sep 16
Understanding Chiropractic Care: Answers to Your Most Common Questions
General Questions
What does a chiropractor do?
Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who focus on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those related to the spine. They use hands-on spinal manipulation and other manual techniques to manage pain and improve function. At Health Wise Chiropractic we use Chiropractic adjustments on drop piece tables with the use of other tools like an activator, shockwave machine, dry needling, cupping and hot stones to help relieve muscle tendons, promote healing and fixing spinal subluxations (mis alignements in the spine)
What is chiropractic care?Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that emphasises the body's ability to heal itself. It involves spinal adjustments to address where there is dysfunction in the spine to help the nervous system function better
Are chiropractors real doctors?Chiropractors hold a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree, which requires extensive education and training, However, they are not medical doctors (MDs) and do not prescribe medications or perform surgeries.
What conditions do chiropractors treat?Chiropractors commonly treat conditions such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, and joint issues. They focus on disorders related to the spine and musculoskeletal system.
How is chiropractic care different from physical therapy?While both aim to alleviate pain and improve function, chiropractic care primarily involves spinal adjustments, whereas physical therapy focuses on exercises, stretches, and modalities to rehabilitate the body.At Health Wise Chiropractic , The new patient process involves 3 steps
1- First visit is getting to know your important histroy, take a posture analysis and start your first treatment
2- Second visit re assess the spine and muscles , see how YOUR body has healed and to go through the posture scan with you
3- This is where we have a better idea how to tailor your care and prescibe stretches and exercies and diagnois with more confidence your condition(s)
How does chiropractic treatment work?Chiropractic treatment works by adjusting the spine to correct misalignments (subluxations), which can interfere with the nervous system and cause pain or dysfunction.
What is a chiropractic adjustment?A chiropractic adjustment is a manual manipulation of the spine or other joints to restore proper alignment and function.It is a high veloicty low amplitude thrust , which means it is gentle and quick.
Is chiropractic treatment safe?Chiropractic treatment is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed professional. However, like any medical treatment, it carries some risks, especially if not properly administered.
What qualifications do chiropractors have?In Australia, chiropractors must complete a minimum of five years of university education, including a Bachelor of Health Science and a Master of Clinical Chiropractic. They are regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
How long do chiropractors go to school?Becoming a chiropractor typically requires at least five years of university education, followed by ongoing professional development throughout their career.Each year Health Wise Chiropractic publishes over 100 health blogs to help educate our patients on the latest health information
Visiting a Chiropractor
What happens during a chiropractic visit?During a chiropractic visit, the chiropractor will assess your medical history, perform a physical examination, and may conduct tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. Treatment often involves spinal adjustments and may include other therapies. We give you the option of choosing either just Chiropractic adjustments or adding other services like massage.
What should I expect at my first chiropractic appointment?Your first appointment will involve a thorough assessment of your health history, a physical examination, and possibly diagnostic tests. Based on this, the chiropractor will discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs.If you need to get an xray- we can refer you for a bulk billed xray.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?In Australia, you do not need a referral to see a chiropractor. They are primary healthcare providers, and patients can access their services directly.If you want to get Bulk Billed Chiropractic, you have to see a GP first to get your EPC form.
How often should I see a chiropractor?The frequency of chiropractic visits depends on your condition and treatment plan. Initially, more frequent visits may be recommended, which may decrease as your symptoms improve.
How long does a chiropractic session last?Chiropractic sessions typically last between 10 to 120 minutes, depending on the complexity of the treatment and the patient's needs.
Will I need X-rays?X-rays may be necessary if the chiropractor suspects underlying conditions such as fractures or severe misalignments. However, not all patients require X-rays.
Can I see a chiropractor if I’m pregnant?Yes, chiropractic care can be safe during pregnancy. Chiropractors use gentle techniques to alleviate discomfort associated with pregnancy, such as back pain and pelvic misalignments.
Is chiropractic care safe for children?Chiropractic care can be safe for children when performed by a trained chiropractor.
Do chiropractors prescribe medication?No, chiropractors do not prescribe medications. They focus on non-invasive treatments like spinal adjustments and manual therapies.
How do I choose a good chiropractor?Each Chiropractor is different , even at Health Wise Chiropractic we have multiple Chiropractors , some that focus on Sports Chiropractic and others based on Posture corerction and correcting the underlying dysfunction so the issue is less likely to re occur.
💪 Effectiveness and Benefits of seeing a Chiropractor
Does chiropractic care actually work?Chiropractic care has been shown to be effective for certain conditions, particularly musculoskeletal pain such as lower back pain and neck pain.
What are the benefits of chiropractic treatment?Benefits of chiropractic treatment include pain relief, improved mobility, better posture, and enhanced overall well-being.
How long does it take to feel better after an adjustment?Some patients experience immediate relief after an adjustment, while for others, it may take several sessions to notice significant improvements.After your 3rd visit , we often have more confidence on how long your pain will last. Dr Julian always reminds patients that PAIN is the LAST SIGN of dysfunction, meaning it is the FIRST thing to go , THEN we can start correcting the underlying problem that lead you into the office.
1. Can a chiropractor hurt me?
Chiropractic care is generally safe when performed by a licensed and trained chiropractor. However, as with any manual therapy, there's a small risk of side effects like soreness, stiffness, or, in rare cases, more serious injury. It's important to ensure your chiropractor takes a detailed health history and performs appropriate exams.
2. What are the risks of chiropractic adjustments?
Common risks include temporary discomfort, muscle soreness, or fatigue after treatment. Rare but serious risks include herniated discs, nerve compression, or stroke from high-velocity neck manipulation (though this is extremely uncommon) and we do tests to make sure you are not a candidate for adverse reactions.
3. Can chiropractic adjustments cause a stroke?
There is a very low but serious risk of stroke from high-velocity neck adjustments. This occurs if an artery in the neck is damaged (vertebral artery dissection). Most experts agree the risk is extremely rare —estimated at 1 in several million adjustments, but still something to be aware of, especially if you have vascular health issues.
4. Do chiropractors crack your bones?
No, chiropractors don’t "crack" bones. The popping or cracking sound is from gas bubbles being released from the joint (a process called "cavitation") when pressure changes during an adjustment. It's harmless and similar to cracking your knuckles.
5. Is it true that once you go to a chiropractor, you always have to go?
No, that's a myth. While some patients choose ongoing care for maintenance or prevention, you are never required to continue. Chiropractors may recommend follow-ups based on your condition, but it's up to you whether to proceed.
6. Why do adjustments make a popping sound?
The sound comes from the release of gas (mainly nitrogen and carbon dioxide) from joint capsules during an adjustment. It's similar to cracking your knuckles and isn't harmful.
7. What if I don’t feel better after a few visits?
Not everyone responds the same way. If you don’t see improvement after several sessions, it’s reasonable to revisit the diagnosis, consider alternative treatments, or seek a second opinion. A good chiropractor will monitor your progress and adapt the plan or refer you elsewhere if needed.
8. Can I do chiropractic adjustments on myself?
Self-adjusting is not recommended. While you might get a “crack” by stretching or twisting, it’s not targeted or controlled and can cause strain or injury. Proper spinal adjustments require training to perform safely and effectively. This always upsets Dr Julian as he cant adjust himself and still has to go to a Chiropractor himself!
9. Are chiropractic treatments covered by insurance?
In many countries, including Australia, chiropractic care is often partially covered by private health insurance (extras cover). In some cases, public health systems or workers' compensation programs may also cover chiropractic visits. Always check your individual plan.
10. What’s the difference between a chiropractor and an osteopath?
A chiropractor is a healthcare professional who specialises in diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders, primarily through manual adjustment or manipulation of the spine. Chiropractors emphasise the relationship between the spine and the nervous system and aim to improve overall health by correcting spinal alignment.
Focus: Spine, joints, nervous system.
Main technique: Spinal manipulation (chiropractic adjustment).
Commonly treated: Back pain, neck pain, headaches, joint issues.
An osteopath is an allied health professional. They offer treatment for issues such as pain, injuries and movement problems. Osteopathic treatment includes a holistic approach and may involve osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury.
Focus: Whole-body health, musculoskeletal system, preventive care.
Main technique: Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), and also uses soft tissue techniques.
Commonly treats: A wide range of medical conditions, including musculoskeletal issues.
For more information about how we can help YOU with your pain and improve your underlying dysfunction so the problem doesn’t come back .
Please call Health Wise Chiropractic 03 9467 7889 or book online to see one of our Chiropractors in Sunbury or Melton/Strathtulloh Today!
We are also really proud to offer our patients an APP for their Mobile- iPad. With access to your rehab exercises and our health tip blogs with over 600 articles.
Chiropractic has moved online. We offer our online program -STAND CORRECTED- To help you through the day.
We have over 30 programs on different health conditions
Each program contains
- Information about the conditions
- things to do and things to avoid
- nutrition advice
- all the stretches that are needed to help
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