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28th March 2024 

WHAT IS CHIROPRACTIC AND HOW DOES IT WORK

Chiropractic is a healthcare profession that focuses on diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, with special emphasis on the spine. It emphasises manual therapy including spinal manipulation and other joint and soft tissue manipulation, and includes exercises and health and lifestyle advice.

Chiropractic is a primary health care profession focused on your health and wellbeing.

The World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) states: “Chiropractic is a health profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, and the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal adjustment and other joint and soft-tissue manipulation”.

For further reading on chiropractic training and safety in chiropractic, see the WHO (World Health Federation) Guidelines at- http://www.who.int/medicines/areas/traditional/Chiro-Guidelines.pdf

Joint problems and pain can occur for many reasons, including:-

  • Incorrect lifting
  • Car or sporting accidents
  • Falls
  • Poor posture

    WHAT CONDITIONS CAN IT HELP?

    The gentle nature of the McTimoney method makes it suitable for people of all ages. It's proven to be effective in treating the following condition:-

  • General, acute and chronic backache and pain (not arising from injury or accident)
  • Rotator cuff injuries, disease or disorders
  • Migraine prevention and headache arising from the neck (cervicogenic)
  • Muscular spasms
  • Minor sports injuries and tensions
  • Joint pains including hip and knee pain from osteoarthritis as an adjunct to core OA treatments and exercise
  • Sciatica
  • Shoulder complaints (dysfunction, disorders and pain) and soft tissue disorders of the shoulder

    WHAT IS THE MCTIMONEY METHOD?

    Developed by John McTimoney over 30 years ago, the McTimoney method is recognised as being a gentle, precise, whole body approach to chiropractic care. McTimoney chiropractors strive for optimal health by treating the entire person and not just the area that pains you.

    McTimoney Chiropractors are trained to correct misalignments using quick, gentle and accurate adjustments which ensure that you experience maximum comfort.

    WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM MY FIRST SESSION?

    A physical examination will be undertaken to locate the problem, during which time your chiropractor will make adjustments using light, dextrous techniques associated with the McTimoney technique.

    If at any point your chiropractor discovers or suspects a condition that requires medical intervention, they will refer you to your GP for further test.

    Normally your first visit can last approximately an hour. During this time, the chiropractor will:

  • Take a full case history, assessing your general health, previous conditions, and existing symptoms
  • Conduct a thorough physical examination(this will include neurological and orthopaedic tests, if necessary)
  • Take or refer you for x-rays if they are needed
  • Make adjustments using the light, dextrous techniques associated with the McTimoney technique

    In some instances your chiropractor may need to ask you to remove some clothing. Privacy and a gown are always provided but do tell your chiropractor if you feel uncomfortable about undressing

    A chiropractor's first concern is to find out what is wrong. They will also check for signs of any serious conditions for which you would need specialist advice.

    TREATMENT IS VERY MUCH A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN YOU AND YOUR CHIROPRACTOR?

    Before your treatment starts, your chiropractor will explain to you clearly:

  • The results of your examination
  • The proposed treatment plan
  • The benefits and any significant risks associated with you condition and proposed treatment plan

    HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?

    Most people find between two and six sessions sufficient to address straightforward problems. The number and frequency of treatments will depend on a number of factors, including:

  • Age
  • Extent of injury
  • Duration of injury
  • General fitness
  • Posture

    The anticipated number of sessions will be discussed with you prior to treatment. Once you're up and running, you can choose to schedule regular check-ups a few times a year to keep chronic conditions under control.

    HOW WILL I FEEL AFTER TREAMENT?

    During a course of chiropractic care you can expect to feel physical changes as your body realigns. These may include stiffness or tiredness, particularly after your first session.

    Your McTimoney chiropractor will give you advice on your aftercare and any necessary lifestyle changes to help you get the most out of your care.

    It is important that you talk to your chiropractor if you feel worried about anything either during or after treatment.