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» How Does Chiropractic Work? » Who Needs Chiropractic Treatments? » What Is Chiropractic Care? » Is Chiropractic Care Safe & Effective? » How Can I Achieve A Healthier Back? » What Can I Expect On My First Visit?

HOW DOES CHIROPRACTIC WORK? Your back is made up of many bones which are referred to as the
vertebrae. They are all connected together by a complex network of tissue consisting of muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and cartilage. When aligned properly everything is working as it should. The spine supports your body weight, and protects your spinal cord. The spinal cord is the “highway” of the nervous system. In order for your body to function properly you need to have the spinal column aligned. If improperly aligned it causes stress, therefore causing pain, and discomfort.. Chiropractors are trained to find the problem in your back and assess the situation so that they may get your back properly aligned again. This is usually referred to as “joint manipulation” or less formally an “adjustment”. Joint manipulation is when the chiropractor applies a very quick, safe and precise amount of pressure directly on the problem area of the spine. The popping noise you commonly hear is from the separation of the joints which allows the gas air bubble to escape. This relieves the pressure on the joints and nerves which allows the spine to return to its proper alignment. Adjustments are not painful and most often provide immediate relief. There may be little or no discomfort during the process. If there is slight discomfort it lasts only a few seconds.
WHO NEEDS CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENTS? Studies have shown that eight out of ten people will experience back pain at some point in their life. The pain can keep them from work, school or any activities they have. If chiropractic is not the care you need your chiropractor will make a referral. People who have one or more of the following should see a chiropractor:

• Motor Vehicle Accident
• Work related injuries
• Poor posture
• Stress from daily living
• Sports related injuries
• Sprains
• Improper lifting
• Arthritis
• Injuries from falls
• Some strain caused from the delivery of children

WHAT IS CHIROPRACTIC CARE? Chiropractic considered the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disorders that may arise on the spinal area. It is a drug free, highly skilled “hands on” treatment performed by professionals that are properly trained, where the main focus is on the source of the pain and not the symptoms. Canadian chiropractors are required to complete a minimum of three years of university education, followed by four years at an accredited chiropractic college. They receive 4500 hours of education. They are then required to pass both provincial and national exams before becoming a Doctor of Chiropractic. In this office we use principled, scientifically based adjustments done strictly by hand.
IS CHIROPRACTIC CARE SAFE & EFFECTIVE? There has been extensive study in the chiropractic treatments to the effectiveness and the safety of the treatment. Chiropractors need to be absolutely sure that the treatment they provide is safe and effective. There have been no findings that show the risks outweigh the treatment benefit. The actual adjustment may cause slight discomfort at the time of the adjustment but this only lasts a few seconds.
HOW CAN I ACHIEVE A HEALTHEIR BACK? Exercise regularly
Follow a healthy diet
Good posture
Stretching before and after sports activities
Do not overload backpacks, or handbags
Stretching legs and back after each hour of sitting
Never cradle phone between neck and shoulders Invest in a good chair, pillow and mattress
Be sure to have regular spinal checkups

WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON MY FIRST VISIT? Your chiropractor may ask you questions any of the following questions, answers to these questions are very important so that we may give you the best possible care:

• Personal and family medical history
• Major illnesses you have previously had
• Previous surgeries or operations
• Any medication you may be taking
• Your diet and exercise
• Work and leisure activities
• Sleeping habits

Some tests that may be performed on the first visit are, these tests are routine:
Blood pressure, breathing and pulse
Reflexes Muscle strength, flexibility and coordination
Analysis of posture X-ray of spine
Observation of walking or lifting