Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What do chiropractors treat?

Chiropractors are very good at dealing with back and neck ailments as well as those problems connected with spine such as headaches, sciatica and hip pain. It is important to note that chiropractors don’t just work on bone and joints; they also treat muscle tightness and strains, ligament injuries and tendinitis.

Q: I don’t like having my back cracked? Can you do something else?

Absolutely! Manipulation (the technique that produces the cracking/popping sound) is very effective and is always done as gently as possible so as not to be painful. However, some patients prefer not to have it done. At this clinic, massage therapy and stretching techniques are used just as commonly as manipulation and produce excellent results.

It is important that the treatment is tailored to the needs and comfort of the patient.

Q: What training do chiropractors do?

Chiropractors in Australia are required to complete a five year university degree which encompasses many hours of clinical training before being allowed to register as a chiropractor. Practicing chiropractors are regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.

Q: What is the difference between a chiropractor and a physiotherapist?

As a general comment, the training differs. Chiropractors dedicate much of their five year degree learning to diagnose and treat spinal (back and neck) problems. Physiotherapists, on the other hand, tend to concentrate more on sports injuries.

Q: Do I need to be referred from a medical doctor? Is the treatment covered under Medicare?

You do not need a referral from a medical doctor to see a chiropractor. Simply ring and make an appointment at your convenience.

Chiropractic treatment is not covered under Medicare unless you are referred under the Medicare Enhanced Primary Care Program. This is only eligible to people with long-standing or chronic health problems and referral occurs at the discretion of your doctor. If you are to be treated by a chiropractor under this program then you do need a special referral from your doctor.

Q: Will I need to have x-rays taken?

It depends on the problem you are presenting with. As a general comment, if your back or neck pain is relatively uncomplicated and is likely to respond well to treatment, then further investigations such as x-rays are probably not needed.

However, there are circumstances (trauma, pain not going away, concern about structural abnormalities) where it is important.