Chiropractic

This coming week is chiropractic awareness week, so… what actually is chiropractic?

Typical chiropractic treatment consists of far more than the spinal manipulative therapy that most of us think of. We take an holistic approach to our patients, realising that whilst the spine may be a central source of many of our pains and problems, it is far from the only cause. We therefore assess the health status of the entire patient, not just the spine; and advise on how best to treat the whole patient. Chiropractic intervention can be active or passive; that is, it can include advice or coaching in self-care (the patient takes an active part in their care), or it can include physical therapy such as massage, manipulation, mobilisation etc (the patient is a passive participant in their care). The active component is comfortably the more important, whilst the passive mostly improves the efficiency of the patients’ homework.

You will also find that much of chiropractic care is aimed at helping you to help yourself. The chiropractor can only do so much; we can treat what needs to be treated, but for your body to heal, it needs your help. Your chiropractor may give you a wide range of advice, including the use of other therapies, of exercises you can do, or lifestyle changes that may help your body (eg the ergonomics of your car seat; or nutritional advice), or coaching/educating on things like sleep hygiene or pain science. We are more than happy to share the management of your condition, both with your GP and other therapists.

During this pandemic, we are treating in full PPE as advised by Public Health England – mask, shield, gloves and apron. We are also allowing a fallow period between patients to allow for cleaning and aeration of the room. We are also offering video consultations (via Zoom). These take the place of our free chats; and of the first half of the initial consultation, where we sit and talk about what’s going on; or those who need a follow-up, but no hands-on care. Video consultations can cover diagnosis, education, coaching and advice / exercise plans that make up about 80% of the treatment. If video consultation is all that is required on the day, then the charge is ⅔ of the normal fee.

Through all these things, we aim to aid you in maximising your recovery, minimising any future recurrence, and to help you to manage any future episodes without the need for intervention. For patients on a maintenance programme, we aim to provide relief before you even notice any pain, and to remind and encourage you with self-care techniques; helping you to fulfil your potential in life.