Toodyay Chiropractic Clinic employs a combination of manipulation (adjustments), soft tissue techniques, physiotherapeutic modalities, stretches and strengthening exercises to encourage good spinal alignment and function in our patients. Chiropractors are primary health practitioners, with a minimum of five years tertiary education and are trained in the diagnosis, correction and prevention of disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the effects of these disorders on a persons health and wellbeing. What is an manipulation (adjustment) and how is it given? Chiropractors use a careful and controlled pressure in a precise direction to a joint that is not moving properly with the aim of returning its normal motion. An adjustment can be given in many different ways; it may be a quick movement, a slow constant pressure or a gentle rhythmical movement; it may be given by hand or with the help of a low-force adjusting instrument. Sometimes only one area of the spine will need to be adjusted, while other times several areas may need to be addressed. What is the “cracking” sound associated with adjustments? The “cracking” or “popping” sound that accompanies an adjustment indicates that the joint has separated slightly and released normal fluids and gases within the joint. It is not the bones “cracking” or grinding on each other. A “crack” does not need to be heard to mean that the adjustment has been successful. Will I need x-rays? Only if the chiropractor feels this is necessary after taking a full patient history and preforming a physical examination. X-rays are useful diagnostic tools that allow chiropractors to see exactly what is going on with a patients spine and for some patients they are required before the chiropractor can form an appropriate plan of care. How often will I need to come? People usually seek chiropractic care as they are in some degree of pain. The frequency of care will vary from person to person however, initially, the primary aim of the chiropractor is to reduce the level of pain their patient is experiencing. Once this has been achieved, the focus of the chiropractor shifts to educating the patient about ways in which they can look after their body to prevent recurrence of this and other musculoskeletal conditions. What conditions do chiropractors treat? Chiropractic can provide relief from not only back and neck complaints, but also from many types of soft tissue injuries such as tendonosis, bursitis and extremity disorders such as ankle, knee, hip, shoulder, elbow and wrist problems. Patients of our clinic commonly report relief of:
• Lower back pain and stiffness • Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches and migraines, dizziness and vertigo • Postural related symptoms
• Leg pain (sciatica), weakness and tingling • Arm pain, weakness and tingling
• Chest pain • Indigestion
• Dysmenorrhea (Period pain) • Work place injuries
• Geriatric conditions
• Injuries from motor vehicle accidents
• Sports injuries and an enhancement of sports performance
• Fatigue, resulting in greater energy levels and an increased feeling of general well-being
• Paediatric conditions (eg colic, ear infections, bed wetting and birth trauma)
