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WHAT IS CHIROPRACTIC?

Chiropractic is an evidence-based, non-invasive, hands-on health care discipline that focuses on the musculoskeletal system.  It is regulated in New Zealand by the NZ Chiropractic Board and can file ACC injury claims on your behalf. 

Chiropractors practice primarily using their hands, providing diagnosis, treatment and preventive care for disorders related to the spine, pelvis, nervous system and joints.

 

After taking a history, performing an examination and establishing a diagnosis, we will lay out a comprehensive treatment/management plan, recommend therapeutic exercise and other non-invasive therapies, and provide nutritional, dietary and lifestyle counselling tailored to your needs.

One of the most common therapies a we use is spinal manipulative therapy (SMT), which can comprise a variety of adjustment techniques. Specific training in SMT allows chiropractors to provide highly-skilled and precise adjustments to the vertebrae of the spine, correcting joint motion to restore proper movement and improve function.  These techniques will be modified to suit your condition and comfort level.  Some techniques can be so gentle they can be used on babies (Dr. Winter's note:  We don't treat babies, that's just for reference), ranging right up to the "cracking" adjustments people often request after seeing them on YouTube, so don't be afraid to tell us what you prefer.

For many joint, nerve, or muscle conditions, such as low back pain, chiropractic care is the primary method of treatment. When a multi-disciplinary approach is advisable, we will coordinate care with other health care professionals. Where other conditions exist, chiropractic care may complement or support medical or other treatment by relieving the musculoskeletal aspects associated with the condition.

Chiropractic care may also be used to provide symptomatic relief for patients with chronic conditions.

There are many reasons to seek chiropractic care:

  • Back pain

  • Neck pain

  • Headache

  • Whiplash

  • Strains and sprains

  • Repetitive strain injury (RSI)

  • Work and sports injuries

  • Arthritis

  • Limited range of motion in the back, shoulder, neck or limbs

 You do not need a referral to see a chiropractor.  

What to expect on your first visit to us

 

We will need a complete picture of your health history and overall current health in order to provide the best possible treatment for you.

On your first visit, you will be asked about the following:

  • What brought you to see the us

  • How your condition is affecting you, and what are you trying to achieve by seeing a chiropractor

  • Personal and family medical history

  • Major illnesses you have experienced

  • Surgeries or operations you have had

  • Medications you are taking

  • A description of your present condition

  • The steps you have taken to manage your condition

  • Your diet and exercise

  • Your sleeping habits, daily activities, work routine, stress level, and home life

It is a good idea to wear comfortable clothes and shoes for your visit to the clinic, as we may need to perform some of these tests:

  • A check of your blood pressure, pulse and breathing

  • A test of your reflexes, strength and sensations

  • Orthopedic tests

  • An analysis of your posture

  • An X-ray of your spine

  • An analysis of your movement — we will observe how you walk, turn, bend or lift things, as well as how your body moves in the affected area

  • A hands-on evaluation of how well your spine moves, identifying restrictions and areas of improper motion

Tip: Bring a copy of any X-rays or radiology reports you have. These assessments give us a better picture of your complete health. We will make a diagnosis, prescribe a course of treatment, and once the matter of informed consent has been discussed, treatment usually begins.

The recommended course of treatment will be specific to you, and may also include mobilization of the joints, soft tissue therapy, and therapeutic exercises. We can also provide nutritional counselling, and recommend rehabilitation and injury prevention strategies.

We will discuss any treatment options with you so that we can collaboratively decide together on the best course of action for you.


If we diagnose a condition more appropriately treated by another health care professional, we will make a referral.

Chiropractic fees

New Patient Consultation: $96 ($76 if on ACC)

Returning patients: $61 ($41 if on ACC)

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