Frequently asked Chiropractic Questions

Some people have never been to a chiropractor before and may have questions about what we do.

Here are some answers, which may help you to understand our treatment and how it works.  We also have a variety of brochures and information on hand in the clinic for you to take away.

Most of all, we value your interest in chiropractic and would be happy to answer any questions you may have either by email or phone (please do leave a message if we are busy and are unable to pick up) and we will endeavour to get back to you as soon as possible.

Yours in health – the Luck’s Yard team

What is a chiropractor?

A chiropractor is trained in assessing your spinal, cranial, muscular and nervous system and how it relates to your health.  We use our hands to align and restore good movement of your joints in the whole body from the head to feet.  By getting your spinal joints aligned and moving well we help the body’s own healing system to keep you well and in good balance.

What training does a chiropractor have?

To become a chiropractor, you must undertake 5 years of undergraduate studies.  The chiropractic student studies much the same subjects as the medical doctor with a special focus on biomechanics, radiology, radiography and neurology.  They are also trained to look out for pathology and such conditions that need medical referral or other types of care.  Chiropractic is state regulated and we follow strict guidelines from our regulatory bodies as well as annual post-graduate training (PRT). Chiropractors are trained to be good at understanding which patients they can help and which need medical referral.

How does a chiropractor treat?

Most chiropractors use their hands to gently realign the joints.  This is called an adjustment and has a specific direction and pressure allowing the joints to establish a good movement and position. Sometimes an adjustment is very fast and other times slow, such as in Cranio Sacral work or Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT).

The chiropractor may also treat you with soft tissue and mobilisation techniques; at other times cranial and jaw work is required.  The treatment is tailored to each individual, whatever age, health condition or special circumstances, such a pregnancy or arthritic conditions.

What is the popping sound?

The adjustment will realign and move the joint surfaces relative to each other, creating a temporary release of joint fluid and gases. This is called a cavitation. The popping sound is not always present though.  The chiropractor will always do a post adjustment test to assess for successful mobility and alignment to be restored.

How many treatments do I need?

This varies for each patient depending on the length of the problem, severity and injury.  It may also depend on the general health, medical status and age.  Most people need at least 6-8 sessions for long-term improvement and new movement patterns to occur.  We often  see new patients twice a week initially, to allow the body to accept the new changes.  Our aim is to help you to get and stay well.  This does require co-operation and commitment from your side and we will discuss this regularly during our sessions.

Will I be treated on the first visit?

This may often be the case, depending on your symptoms and presentation.  If we need more investigations we will refer for x-rays, MRI or laboratory tests before we treat.

Will it hurt?

Our patients often find the gentle spinal adjustments to be painless.  There is often stiffness and some soreness after the first session, as the body is trying to adapt to the new movement and position.  We call this a healing reaction.  It is due to spinal joints, muscles and ligaments being stretched into a new position and movement and allowing blood flow to this area. The muscle work can be a little more uncomfortable in the short term but will generally quickly resolve.

Do I need to be referred by my GP or specialist?

As chiropractic is a private health care option, you do not need a referral.  However, if you are using your private health care insurance to pay for the treatment you may need a letter from your GP or back specialist to be covered.  Check with your insurance company for further details.  Luck’s Yard Clinic is recognised by all the main insurance companies.