Wairarapa Chiropractic

Wairarapa Chiropractic Drs Ben, Jo-anne, Isaac and Grace are our team of highly trained chiropractors. We'd love to see if chiropractic can help you and your family!

They take pride in providing safe & effective chiropractic care for the Wairarapa community.

It is lovely to see our little ones looking after their little ones. - Even teddy bears need a check up! 🥰💚🧸
12/11/2025

It is lovely to see our little ones looking after their little ones. - Even teddy bears need a check up! 🥰💚🧸

Jo, her husband Kev and team mate Heidi all qualified for Masters League CrossFit games this year and have headed over t...
17/10/2025

Jo, her husband Kev and team mate Heidi all qualified for Masters League CrossFit games this year and have headed over to Aussie to compete.

We’re all cheering you on back home

Have a great time and good luck! 💪🏼 👊

15/10/2025

Today we celebrate your spine with World Spine Day!

Your spine plays a vital role in keeping you moving and upright for all that our busy lives throw at us.

That is why keeping your spine healthy with regular exercise, good posture and getting adjusted is so important.

Here is The New Zealand Chiropractors' Association media release that talks about the new study that reinforces chiropractic as a vital option for managing spinal pain in older adults:

New Study Reinforces Chiropractic as a Vital Option for Managing Spinal Pain in Older Adults

To mark World Spine Day (16th October) the New Zealand Chiropractors’ Association (NZCA) is calling attention to a major new study published on 8 August 2025 in the Canadian Journal on Aging, which shows that middle-age and older adults—especially those from marginalised communities—can experience significant pain relief from chiropractic care, even within public health systems.

Conducted at a publicly funded community health centre in Canada, the study analysed 240 records from patients aged 45 and older over a nine year period and found clinically meaningful improvements in spinal pain across all age groups and regions of the spine.

Notably, most of these patients came from low-income, Indigenous, or underserved populations and often had multiple chronic conditions.

A large majority also reported that seeing a chiropractor reduced their need to visit their GP or local emergency department.

“This study powerfully reinforces what we see here in New Zealand,” says Dr Jenna Duehr, chiropractor and spokesperson for the NZCA.

“Chiropractic care is safe, effective, drug-free and particularly suited to older adults who often face barriers in accessing conventional care.

It also supports the global move toward integrated, non-pharmacological management of chronic spinal pain.”

Why It Matters for New Zealand:
● One in four New Zealanders over 65 live with chronic musculoskeletal pain.
● Older Kiwis are more likely to experience low back pain if they are on low incomes or have other health conditions.
● Chiropractors are primary health practitioners in NZ and can be consulted without referral.
● Chiropractic care can help reduce reliance on pain medications, including opioids, which pose higher risks for older adults.
● The Canadian findings support NZ-based evidence showing that patients who access chiropractic care earlier require fewer overall medical services.

The NZCA encourages older New Zealanders and their whānau to explore chiropractic care as a valuable part of their health and wellness plan.

“If you or a loved one is struggling with spinal pain, stiffness, mobility issues, or loss of function, your local chiropractor can offer evidence-informed, hands-on care that may significantly improve quality of life,” adds Dr Duehr.

World Spine Day “Invest in Your Spine”. Recognized annually on October 16, World Spine Day brings together health advocates, professionals, and organizations to promote the importance of spinal health and well-being.

With millions of people affected by spinal disorders, including chronic back pain, spinal deformity and postural issues, this year’s campaign emphasizes that investing in spinal health today is a crucial step toward a healthier and more fulfilling future.

The campaign highlights that spinal health is not just a matter of comfort—it impacts mobility, productivity, mental wellbeing, and overall quality of life.

A link to the Straighten Up initiave founded by the New Zealand Chiropractors' Association can be found here:
https://www.straightenup.org.nz/

Last weekend, Ben, Jo, and Mon attended NZCA's Lyceum conferance in Auckland.They had a great time hearing from inspirin...
24/09/2025

Last weekend, Ben, Jo, and Mon attended NZCA's Lyceum conferance in Auckland.

They had a great time hearing from inspiring speakers, upskilling and celebrating colleagues successes.

It was also a great opportunity to connect with colleagues and students from around the country.

See if you can spot some familiar faces! 😁

22/09/2025

This is a lovely reminder from Dr. Jo regarding our little ones posture’s during screen time. ☺️

Celebrating 10 years with you Grace! You were a patient. I remember you asking if me if I knew of any jobs going as you ...
22/09/2025

Celebrating 10 years with you Grace!

You were a patient. I remember you asking if me if I knew of any jobs going as you were looking for a change. I knew you were special, we jumped at the opportunity and asked you to join our team (consisting of just Ben and I at this stage)

Little did Grace (or us) know that this one question would help shape the course of her future!

We still remember our first staff Christmas “party” which was at Salute in Greytown where we had dinner and drinks with Grace and her partner Jamie, just the 4 of us! (these days our Christmas Parties generally involve around 16 of us or 30 if we include our children)

Grace has helped grow the practice, with additional chiropractors joining us, we quickly needed more CA’s to help us on the front desk, Grace was promoted to Practice Manager. She helped train the other CA's ( Kristy and Bex who are still with us today) as well as support and train the chiropractors on day to day running’s within the practice.

We have had the pleasure of being part of her journey into motherhood as she had her first child Scarlett – it was like becoming an Auntie/Uncle

𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗰𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝘁 𝘂𝘀 𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗮𝗶𝗱 "𝗴𝘂𝘆𝘀, 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗮 𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿...”

We don't know if Grace really knew what was in store for her and the challenges she would overcome. Her, Jamie and Scarlett moved to Auckland, said “see you later” to friends and family, she worked tirelessly day and night studying while working as a CA at the College’s Chiropractic Centre, she also added a little boy Rei to their family!

Our Team flew up to Auckland to attend her graduation – it was incredible to watch her graduate but also be presented with the prestigious 'Clinic Excellence Award’
Ben, the team and I could not be prouder.

6 years later, Dr. Grace returned

HAPPY 10 YEAR ANNIVERSAY Grace!

We love having you as part of the team, but more so, part of our lives

We love you,
Mon and Ben

Last week, we hosted a Lunch 'n' Learn event with local midwives, a lactation consultant, and an acupuncturist to share ...
17/09/2025

Last week, we hosted a Lunch 'n' Learn event with local midwives, a lactation consultant, and an acupuncturist to share how we care for pregnant women, newborns, and infants.

It was fantastic to bring together so many passionate professionals in the antenatal field.

If you want to learn more about how we can help you or your infant/baby, please reach out on 06 377 0823, we would love to help you. 💚

Manaia Midwives
Rejuvenate Acupuncture

🦄 It's not every day that you get to check a unicorn! 🦄Last week was Onesie Appeal Week to raise funds for the Wellingto...
16/09/2025

🦄 It's not every day that you get to check a unicorn! 🦄

Last week was Onesie Appeal Week to raise funds for the Wellington Free Ambulance.

Each year Wellington Free Ambulance must fundraise around $8million to ensure emergency ambulance services can remain free to anyone in Greater Wellington and Wairarapa.

As an essential health service, Wellington Free does receive funding from Government but we need the support of our community to ensure our team have the ambulances, equipment, and resources they need to respond 24/7, 365 days a year.

Your support is absolutely vital in ensuring Wellington Free Ambulance remains free of charge to anyone in our community.

Here is the link if you wish to donate:
https://www.onesieday.co.nz/beneficiaries/wellington-free-ambulance/donations/new

12/09/2025

Dr Ben talking about a media release due to be released this weekend

11 Things You Didn’t Know About Chiropractic
(Beyond Just Back Pain)

The New Zealand Chiropractors’ Association (NZCA) is highlighting eleven science-supported benefits of chiropractic care that go far beyond simply managing back pain. As growing numbers of Kiwis seek natural, drug-free approaches to support active lifestyles, chiropractic offers a valuable option for improving mobility, reducing tension and enhancing overall wellbeing.
“People often think chiropractic is just about sore backs, but modern chiropractic care is focused on whole-body health and function,” says Dr. Jenna Duehr, chiropractor and NZCA spokesperson. “Evidence-based care can help with movement, posture, headaches and much more. It’s about helping New Zealanders live well and stay active.”

1. Chiropractic Care Focuses on Your Nervous System
Chiropractors work with the spine to influence the nervous system, which coordinates every function in your body—from digestion to immune response.
Haavik, H., & Murphy, B. (2012). The role of spinal manipulation in addressing disordered sensorimotor integration and altered motor control. Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology, 22(5), 768-776.

2. Adjustments May Improve Brain-Body Communication
Research using advanced imaging has shown that spinal adjustments can alter brain activity, potentially improving sensory processing and motor control.
Haavik, H., Kumari, N., Holt, K., Niazi, I. K., Amjad, I., Pujari, A. N., ... & Murphy, B. (2021). The contemporary model of vertebral column joint dysfunction and impact of high-velocity, low-amplitude controlled vertebral thrusts on neuromuscular function. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 121(10), 2675-2720.

3. Chiropractic May Help Reduce Stress Responses
Studies suggest chiropractic adjustments can affect the autonomic nervous system, supporting a shift towards a calmer, more balanced state.
Welch, A., & Boone, R. (2008). Sympathetic and parasympathetic responses to specific diversified adjustments to chiropractic vertebral subluxations of the cervical and thoracic spine. Journal of chiropractic medicine, 7(3), 86-93.

4. It’s Not Just About Pain Relief
Patients often report improvements in sleep, energy, mood, and focus following chiropractic care—areas directly influenced by nervous system function.
Haavik, H., Niazi, I. K., Amjad, I., Kumari, N., Ghani, U., Ashfaque, M., ... & Holt, K. (2024). Neuroplastic Responses to Chiropractic Care: Broad Impacts on Pain, Mood, Sleep, and Quality of Life. Brain Sciences, 14(11), 1124.

5. Kids May Benefit Too
Preliminary evidence suggests chiropractic care may support motor development, coordination, and even colic relief in infants.
Alcantara, J., Ohm, J., & Kunz, D. (2009). The safety and effectiveness of pediatric chiropractic: a survey of chiropractors and parents in a practice-based research network. Explore, 5(5), 290-295.

6. Can Support Athletic Performance
From weekend joggers to elite athletes, chiropractic adjustments have been linked to improvements in reaction time, strength, and flexibility—likely due to more efficient nerve signaling.
Lin, A. F. C., Piong, S. Z., Wan, W. M., Li, P., Chu, V. K., Chu, E. C. P., & Chu, V. (2023). Unlocking athletic potential: the integration of chiropractic care into the sports industry and its impact on the performance and health of athletes and economic growth in China and Hong Kong. Cureus, 15(4).
DeVocht, J.W., Vining, R., Smith, D.L. et al. Effect of chiropractic manipulative therapy on reaction time in special operations forces military personnel: a randomized controlled trial. Trials 20, 5 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-018-3133-2

7. May Influence Immune Function
While research is still developing, some studies show spinal adjustments can affect immune markers and white blood cell activity.
Haas, A., Chung, J., Kent, C., Mills, B., & McCoy, M. (2024). Vertebral Subluxation and Systems Biology: An Integrative Review Exploring the Salutogenic Influence of Chiropractic Care on the Neuroendocrine-Immune System. Cureus, 16(3).

8. Drug-Free and Holistic
Chiropractic is a non-invasive, drug-free approach that aims to restore natural body function by removing interference to the nervous system. People who are under chiropractic care are less likely to use potentially harmful opioid medications.
Corcoran, K. L., Bastian, L. A., Gunderson, C. G., Steffens, C., Brackett, A., & Lisi, A. J. (2020). Association between chiropractic use and opioid receipt among patients with spinal pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pain Medicine, 21(2), e139-e145.

9. Could Help With Headaches and Migraines
Spinal adjustments can reduce the frequency and intensity of certain headaches by addressing nerve irritation and muscle tension.
Rist, P. M., Hernandez, A., Bernstein, C., Kowalski, M., Osypiuk, K., Vining, R., ... & Wayne, P. M. (2019). The impact of spinal manipulation on migraine pain and disability: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 59(4), 532-542.

10. Patients Often Choose It for Wellness, Not Just Injury
Surveys show many people seek chiropractic care for overall wellness and preventive health—not only after pain starts.
Beliveau, P. J., Wong, J. J., Sutton, D. A., Simon, N. B., Bussières, A. E., Mior, S. A., & French, S. D. (2017). The chiropractic profession: a scoping review of utilization rates, reasons for seeking care, patient profiles, and care provided. Chiropractic & manual therapies, 25(1), 35.

11. May reduce falls risk in older adults and promote healthy ageing
Chiropractic care can also be modified for older adults and research has shown it can improve body awareness and sensory processing, which are important factors in reducing falls risk.
Holt, K. R., Haavik, H., Lee, A. C. L., Murphy, B., & Elley, C. R. (2016). Effectiveness of chiropractic care to improve sensorimotor function associated with falls risk in older people: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics, 39(4), 267-278.
About the New Zealand Chiropractors’ Association
The NZCA represents qualified, registered chiropractors dedicated to high standards of patient care. Our members support evidence-informed, holistic, patient-centred approaches to musculoskeletal health and overall wellbeing. To learn more about the New Zealand Chiropractors’ Association and find a NZCA chiropractor near you, visit: www.chiropractic.org.nz

We're excited to announce the winner of this month’s referral draw!Every month, we enter the names of those who’ve refer...
04/09/2025

We're excited to announce the winner of this month’s referral draw!

Every month, we enter the names of those who’ve referred friends, family, or colleagues to us into a monthly draw to win a voucher to a local favorite spot.

Congratulations Andrea Didsbury! You have won a $60 voucher to enjoy at Brown Butter Cafe! 🎉

Thank you to everyone who has referred someone to our practice, we love meeting new patients and supporting them in reaching their health goals.

Address

14 Opaki Road
Masterton
5810

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 7pm
Tuesday 7am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 7pm
Thursday 9am - 6pm
Friday 7am - 3pm

Telephone

+6463770823

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Our Story

We are proud to be the longest standing Chiropractic clinic in the Wairarapa. Formerly known as Field Chiropractic Clinic, Ben and Monique Bruce bought the practice from Terry Field in 2015. In 2016 we rebranded to become Wairarapa Chiropractic. Since then we have grown from a husband and wife team to 4 chiropractors, Dr Ben Bruce, Dr Jo-anne Twiggins, Dr Angus McKinnon and Dr Leo Van Lierop who are supported by 5 chiropractic assistants (C.A’s).

From the moment you walk through the front door, we want you and your family to feel at home here. Our friendly team of C.A’s will greet you and make sure you’re well looked after. We realise that sometimes it can be a bit daunting trying something like chiropractic for the first time, or seeing a different chiropractor, so we try our utmost to create an atmosphere where you can relax and feel comfortable.

We have a designated kids and babies area so you can bring your little ones along, there is an area of privacy for you to feed bubs and a nappy change area as well if needed.

We are the only chiropractic clinic in the Wairarapa to offer x-ray facilities onsite, and patient safety is paramount to us. We offer hands-on manual adjustments, instrument-assisted methods, as well as a range of other techniques.