C1 Chiropractic Health Centre FAQs
This is a section that is work in progress and we’ll add things as time passes and as the questions develop. However, many of our new patients, rightly, have lots of questions. Perhaps some of their questions may help answer some of your queries.
What is a chiropractor?
Chiropractors locate, correct and prevent nervous system interferences, usually by adjusting the spine initially to reduce pain and then to improve function and movement. This helps to restore the body's own impressive healing ability and allows it to function at its best. There are many significant differences between Osteopaths and Chiropractors but at C1 we’d say that if you are happy with your osteopath and the treatment is working for you then well done and stick with it.
What is a subluxation?
A subluxation is where the delicate balance of normal movement in your spine is upset. This occurs as a result of a combination of physical, emotional or chemical stresses - such as an awkward working posture, stress at work or too many late nights. It causes interference to your nerve system causing pain and reducing your health potential which means you can not function at your best, which is our goal at C1.
What is an adjustment?
The chiropractor uses a carefully directed and controlled pressure in a precise direction to a joint that is not moving properly. The therapeutic intent is to normalise nerve inputs and so reduce pain and allow the body to begin the healing process.
How is an adjustment given?
Many different ways. It may be a quick movement or slow constant pressure. At C1 it is usually given using the hands but sometimes a tool can be used to give a different manner of adjustment depending on what is right for you at that time. Sometimes only one area may be adjusted and sometimes the entire spine will receive attention.
What is the popping sound?
The popping sound is same as a knuckle cracking. It indicates the joint has separated slightly and released normal fluids and gases in the joint.
Will I need x-rays?
Only if necessary. It depends on what the chiropractor finds after your consultation and examination. X-rays can be an important diagnostic tool and it means we don't have to guess or take chances – similar to asking a mechanic to work on your car without lifting the bonnet. We will refer you to another clinic to take the x-rays if we require them.
How often will I need to come?
In the beginning, especially if you are in pain, you will need more frequent adjustments in order to resolve the subluxation and reduce the pain. Once spinal function starts to return, usually resulting in the relief of ache or pain he frequency of your visits can be reduced. But remember healing is a process and not an event and though we’d love to be able to get you fully functioning in one visit this is just not possible, especially if you are not addressing the stresses that caused the problem in the first place. Our best patients continue their care as a preventative measure and come back to see us one a month or less just as a form of servicing and they are functioning really well and are pain free.
How long will it take to get well?
Healing is a process and takes time and differs from person to person, injury to injury and how you care able to address the activities that caused the subluxation in the first place – if you continue to live life badly then we are going to continue to see you.
How much will it cost?
This varies from individual to individual because the time to get well again differs as discussed above.
