FAQ

What to expect?

On your initial consultation, a medical history will be taken in order to collect relevant information regarding your problem area. Next, an examination will be conducted which will include observing posture, gait, orthopaedic tests, palpation, muscle testing and neurological exam. A report of findings will then be discussed which will include diagnosis and plan of management. In some cases where it is deemed appropriate you may be referred for further investigations. If no further investigation is advised treatment will shortly follow. Treatments will vary dependant on plan of management however will usually consist of soft tissue work such as massage and joint work such as joint mobilisation or manipulation. Initial consultation will take 45 to 60 minutes. Follow up treatments are approximately 20- 30 minutes. If you have not attended the clinic in over a year a reassessment will be required. This is a longer appointment that will allow more treatment time and more time to discuss any change in medical history.

This video from the British Chiropractic Association gives a brief overview of what to expect….

Does it hurt?

In chiropractic we use a variety of techniques such as manipulation, soft tissue work and mobilisation in order to treat a patient in the most appropriate way. A lot of patients actually feel immediate relief from a chiropractic adjustment and do not feel any pain after. From experience, some tenderness can be experienced with soft tissue work. In sport there is a term called Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness, where you are achy and sore after exercise. Post Treatment Soreness is very similar to this, and although doesn’t always happen it is perfectly normal if you do experience.

What is that popping sound?

During a chiropractic adjustment you may hear a popping sound. This popping sound is called a cavitation. Chiropractors will do an adjustment in order to align and mobilise a joint, this involves movement. Within a joint there are lots of different structures one being fluid to lubricate a joint, sometimes due to change in pressure, gases will be released into this area, therefore an increase of force on this structure during an adjustment may result in a little pop. Although cavitations are safe and commonly heard in treatment, they are not necessary and sometimes a pop will not be heard. A chiropractor will primarily be looking for a change in joint mobility.

How many treatments do I need?

The amount of treatments you need varies with each individual. Every condition will have different guidelines. Some patients may feel one treatment is sufficient and others will exceed the recommended guidelines. On average most conditions need 6-8 sessions for long-term improvement and for new movement patterns to occur. Aftercare and exercises advised can help aid recover.

Is it safe?

Chiropractic is a non invasive healthcare profession and as a result is very safe. We are governed in a similar way to medical doctors and dentists to ensure the upmost safety to patients and to ourselves. Chiropractic is a 4-5 year (dependant on entry level) full-time evidence base course covering a vast array of modules such as radiology, anatomy, physiology, neurophysiology and pathology. In addition to university standards, we are required to partake in clinic entrance and exit exams to ensure our efficacy. Training in the UK is fully accredited by the General Chiropractic Council, and in order for us to continue in practise every year we must undergo continue professional development.

Is it safe to have treatment while pregnant?

Yes, all Chiropractors undergo extensive training to ensure we are able to treat everyone safely and efficiently. Both Sarah and Sian have also completed additional courses in Pregnancy, Post- Partum, Neonatal and Paediatric Chiropractic Care.

Do I need a referral from a GP?

You do not need a GP referral for chiropractic treatment.

How quickly will I be seen?

We will endeavour to see you as soon as possible but as a busy clinic please book with as much notice as possible to avoid disappointment.

Can anyone call themselves a chiropractor?

No, to become a chiropractor take 4-5 years depending on your entry route. Due to the extensive course the title doctor of chiropractic is protected by law under the 1994 Chiropractors act. In the UK, all chiropractors must be registered to the General Chiropractic Council – you can verify our registration (or anyone else’s) on that link.

Do you have a cancellation policy?

The clinic can be very busy, often with cancellation lists in place therefore each appointment missed is taking away the opportunity for someone else waiting to be treated. We ask for at least 24 hours notice. Failure to attend or late cancellation will be charged 50% of treatment fee.

Can I claim through my health insurance?

We are registered with AXA, Aviva and WPA.

**Please note for AXA patients, the new patient consultation is £50 and treatments thereafter are £40. Patients can claim back 10 sessions per year. AXA patients must provide their membership number and authorisation code at their appointment **