What is Chiropractic
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The word “chiropractic” is a Greek word meaning, “done by hand”. Today, Chiropractic is the assessment of conditions related to the spine, nervous system and joints. Chiropractors work to diagnose, prevent and treat such conditions primarily by adjustment.
What is an chiropractic adjustment?
An adjustment is performed by licensed chiropractors and involves the precise movement of a joint in the body typically by hand. An adjustment usually results in a “popping” noise and is caused by the release of a gas bubble from within the joint.
Some adjustments in some patients are carried out successfully without the “popping” noise. Depending on techniques used and the force applied, the therapeutic effect of the adjustment is still achieved without the “popping” noise.
How does an adjustment work?
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Current research findings has shown that adjustments of the vertebrae resulting in several effects
release of endorphin to relieve pain
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reduces pressure inside intervertebral discs reducing further pain signals from nerve endings
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stretches the spinal muscles to decrease pain sensations
Who can benefit from Chiropractic care?
Chiropractic treatments have been shown to be safe and effective for conditions like low back pain, neck pain and headaches. In fact, these are the top three reasons why patients seek chiropractic care. Dr. Ho treats many musculoskeletal conditions including:
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Facet joint pain / dysfunction
- Sacroiliac joint pain
- Piriformis syndrome
- Herniated disc
- Pinched Nerves
- Whiplash / Car accidents
- Poor Posture
- Throacic Outlet Syndrome
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Rotator Cuff Injuries
- Tendinopathy / Tendonitis
- Headaches
- Workplace injuries
What can I expect on my first visit at Davisville Health with the Chiropractor?
Dr. Ho will perform a thorough review of your symptoms followed by a detailed physical examination including assessment of your posture, joints, muscles and nerves. A diagnosis will then be presented and a treatment plan will be proposed. In some instances, x-rays or other diagnostic imaging may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis. It is Dr. Ho’s full intention for you to receive your first treatment on your first visit. However, if a condition requiring further medical investigation is identified, Dr. Ho will discuss this with you and explain what your next steps should be.
Once I see a Chiropractor, do I have to go all the time?
This common belief is in fact false. Some conditions can be treated quickly and resolve completely after only 2 or 3 visits. Other chronic conditions like repetitive motion injuries or headaches require regular treatments. Frequency and length of treatments are dependent on many factors including the nature of the injury, mechanism of injury, age, lifestyle factors (smoking, nutrition), your occupation and posture. Once the initial problem has resolved, it is common practice to have patients return in 2-3 months time for a check-up to prevent reoccurring injuries. This is similar to when a mechanic recommends a tune-up for your car every 5000 km or a dentist that recommends regular cleaning of your teeth every 6 months.
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Are Chiropractic adjustments safe
The safety record for Chiropractic Care and spinal manipulation is excellent. Other than minor side effects such as soreness, most patients do not encounter any serious side effects. The association between stroke and neck adjustments remains extremely low. Certain patients with some risk factors are not good candidates for spinal manipulation. A full medical history and physical examination is carried out to determine the safest form of treatment for each patient. No treatments are delivered without a fully informed consent from each patient. | |