Chiropractic is a primary healthcare profession that specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and overall management of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, with particular emphasis on the spine.

Chiropractic treatment emphasises manual therapy including spinal manipulation and other joint and soft-tissue manipulation which is safe, often gentle to free joints in the spine and other areas of the body that are not moving properly.

Although most people associate Chiropractors for treating back and neck pain, they can also treat a range of other musculoskeletal conditions and give advice on exercise, self-help, diet and lifestyle.

Chiropractors perform specific joint manipulations which they refer to as an ‘adjustment’. An adjustment is the skill of using a specific force in a precise direction, applied to a joint that is fixated, “locked up”, or not moving properly. This adds motion to the joint, helping the joints to gradually regain more normal motion and function. The purpose of this safe and natural procedure is to permit improved spinal function, improved nervous system function, and improved health.

There are many ways to adjust the spine. Usually the chiropractor uses their hand or a specially designed instrument or table to deliver a brief and highly accurate movement. Some adjusting methods are quick, whereas others require a slow, constant or indirect pressure.

Every Chiropractor at Hands on Health is highly skilled in the delivery of a variety of adjusting approaches.

For most cases, not at all. In fact most people find having an adjustment very relaxing.

Some patients may have mild discomfort such as temporary aches and soreness following treatment similar to some forms of exercise. This can happen if the area is inflamed and usually resolves within a day or two.

With some adjustments you may feel or hear a popping sound from the spinal joints. This is simply caused by a gas release from the joint, similar to when a suction cup is removed.

There are a variety of techniques used by your Chiropractor. Whatever the technique, Chiropractors use skill, not force or strength, to conduct a safe, effective adjustment.

Chiropractic can suit people of all ages, although treatment techniques of children obviously differ dramatically from those of adults.

Children are very physically active and can be prone to falls and bumps and may experience symptoms such as back and neck pain, stiffness, soreness or discomfort. Chiropractic treatments are highly skilled, and in the case of children, very gentle.

More and more people are consulting chiropractors, especially in their later years.

Restoring better spinal function can help improve mobility. Many patients report improvements with arthritic symptoms and general aches and pains. The adjusting technique used by your chiropractor will be modified for maximum comfort and results.

Of course. When developing a care plan, your Chiropractor considers the unique circumstances of each patient. There are many gentle ways to adjust the spine. The method selected will be best suited to your age, size and condition.

Chiropractic care is suitable after surgery in most cases. Your Chiropractor will be able to advise according to your specific case. Your chiropractor will avoid the surgically modified areas of your spine.

Chiropractic treatment is suitable and safe throughout the pregnancy, during labour and after giving birth. Chiropractic care can help with common problems associated with pregnancy such as pain in the back, pelvis and spine.

Clinical experience suggests that individuals with chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as Degenerative Joint Disease (Osteoarthritis, wear and tear) or recurrent neck pain, back pain, Cervicogenic Headaches or Migraines may experience less frequent and less severe symptoms when under regular chiropractic care. This also applies to individuals in highly stressful situations and those who experience repetitive physical and postural strain from their daily activities.

Chiropractors focus on spinal health. Helping to restore proper spinal mechanics and improved nervous system function begins with your case history. This gives your chiropractor a background about your health, such as the onset of your condition, accidents, surgeries, and other details affecting your current health.

After reviewing your history, a thorough orthopaedic, neurological, and chiropractic examination is performed. X-rays may be recommended to uncover structural or other problems that may be associated with your spine. These examinations help identify areas of spinal malfunction and issues that may be present.

The findings of these examinations are explained and your specific problem is discussed. A plan of chiropractic adjustments may be recommended. Progress is monitored with periodical examinations and follow-up reports.

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We usually examine and take care of people in the clothes they come in with. However, bulky clothing items such as jackets and thick jumpers would need to be removed.

In a small percentage of cases, we may require removal of some items of clothing. This will be with your consent and a gown will be offered.

X-rays can play an important role in diagnosis and are taken when a need has been determined after taking a case history and conducting a physical examination. Chiropractors are trained to take and interpret X-rays.

As every person may require different durations and frequencies of care, a specialised program of care is designed for each patient. All fees are discussed prior to any service being provided. As long as your health is your priority, we are willing to work with all cases.

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Some patients experience almost instant relief. Others discover it can take many weeks.

Many factors affect the recovery process, such as how long you have had it, how bad it is and how many areas and tissues are affected.

Your commitment to the recommended treatment plan, home exercises and any diet or lifestyle adjustments will also determine your treatment outcome and your long term benefits from chiropractic care.

Whilst every patient responds differently, your Chiropractor will be able to advise you on your likely recovery time. In general, the longer you have had it, the longer it will take to get sorted.

After patients get the relief they want, many choose to continue some type of wellness care. Most patients find that periodic chiropractic checkups help keep them in tip top shape. Those that are active, have stressful jobs, or want to be their very best find that preventative visits are helpful in the maintenance of good health.

However long you decide to benefit from chiropractic care is always up to you.

A Doctor of Chiropractic is a primary contact practitioner, meaning you do not need a referral. If yours is not a chiropractic case, your Chiropractor will refer you to the appropriate health care provider.

Yes, we are recognised by most major private health insurance companies.

Once you have paid for your treatment you can then claim from your insurer. Please note that we do not deal directly with the insurance companies.

With some insurers, a GP referral maybe required prior to your first attendance. Please check with your insurer if you have any questions regarding your policy.

Chiropractic treatment through the NHS is not widely available at the moment. You can ask your GP to see if Chiropractic treatment is available to you on the NHS.

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