The word chiropractic is from the Greek meaning “done by hand”. chiro–“hand” + praktikos–“do”.

What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a hands-on, non-invasive and drug free health care option for pain sufferers seeking relief. With an emphasis on differential diagnosis, an assessment of disorders related to the spine, back, neck, nervous system and joints is formulated by the practitioner—a chiropractor. The chiropractor’s expert knowledge in spine and musculoskeletal health will determine the appropriate chiropractic treatment.

About Chiropractors

Chiropractors are spine specialists. They understand how your spine works, what can go wrong and how each vertebra, disc and nerve relates to your health and well-being.

The Chiropractic Adjustment

The purpose of the adjustment is to restore normal function to a poorly functioning or stuck joint. Your chiropractor delivers a quick and precise thrust to the areas that have been diagnosed as malfunctioning. The objective of the adjustment is to reduce pain, increase joint function and improve your overall well-being. Each adjustment is tailored to your specific needs and age.

Deciding to visit a Chiropractor

If you or a family member is experiencing persistent and reoccuring neck or back pain, then deciding to visit a chiropractor may be the next step in your journey to better health. Annually, 4.5 million Canadians visit chiropractors for their care.

What to Expect on the First Visit

When visiting the clinic for the first time, we will listen to you as you describe your pain and symptoms. We will use our hands to locate the exact problem (ie your back) and test how well you can move the problem area. This will also help us determine if other body parts are affected such as hips and knees. The information you share with us about your personal health history is vital and helps us to better understand your specific pain situation

Key information you can share with your chiropractor:

• Personal and family medical history
• Major illness that you have experienced
• Previous accidents
• Surgeries or operations that you have had
• Medications that you are currently taking
• Your exercise and diet
• Your work and leisure activities
• Your sleeping habits

Things that we’ll possibly be checking:

• Posture analysis
• Muscle strength, flexibility and coordination
• Reflexes, Nerve Check
• Movement analysis — walking, lifting
• Blood pressure, pulse and breathing
• Spinal x-ray

Types of Chiropractic Care

Your chiropractor can provide several types of care options. They include:

• Relief Care

  Provides immediate care of pain and discomfort. Several treatments may be required depending on diagnosis, age and physical condition.

• Corrective Care

  Addresses long-term spinal problems. This type of care works specifically with problems that require a longer and more complex treatment program. A customized exercise program may be part of the plan.

• Supportive or Maintenance Care

  Provides periodic care to maintain a healthy spine once you have decided that you have reached optimal well-being.