Over the next two weeks, our chiropractor Dr. Brynne is going to be answering some common questions regarding chiropractic care.
What is chiropractic?
Chiropractic care is a patient-centred, non-invasive, hands-on, regulated health care profession focused on your spine, muscles, joints and nervous system. Chiropractors use the best available evidence and clinical expertise to diagnose issues that affect your body’s movement. They treat them without medication or surgery and aim to prevent them from returning. Chiropractic care can also promote health and improve your quality of life, as well as alleviate pain.
Who are chiropractors?
Doctors of chiropractic are spine, muscle, joint and nervous system experts. We are trained in how to evaluate, diagnose, recommend and deliver a treatment plan that manages issues within these systems, according to your preferences. Chiropractors receive at least seven to eight years of post-secondary academic and clinical education. A chiropractor’s education also includes courses in radiology, pain management, prescribed exercise and rehabilitation.
As primary care providers, chiropractors can develop and carry out a comprehensive treatment and management plan, which may include manual therapy, exercise, and nutritional and lifestyle advice. Chiropractic care may complement or support medical treatment by relieving the musculoskeletal aspects associated with other conditions. Chiropractors are one of only five classes of health care professionals in Ontario that are able to use the title ‘Doctor,’ with its accompanying rights and obligations.
Where can I find a chiropractor?
Chiropractors work collaboratively as part of your circle of care team. You’ll find them in private practice clinics, interprofessional clinics, family health teams, hospitals, patients’ homes or even as onsite support for employees at large corporations. Whether they work in the same office or not, chiropractors collaborate with other health care professionals to help manage your condition. Chiropractors are also active members of the broader health care community. A number of chiropractors are professors, researchers, hospital board members and part of a sports organization’s health team.
What does a visit to the chiropractor look like?
During your first visit, chiropractors will take a well-detailed history of your chief complaint and relevant medical history. A physical examination will be performed to determine what may be causing your pain or dysfunction. Using our clinical expertise and the best available evidence, we will make a diagnosis and recommend treatment options for you. Treatment plans are individualized to each patient and may include education/reassurance, soft tissue therapy, mobilizations/adjustments, exercise, acupuncture and more.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
Chiropractors are legislated as primary health care providers in Canada and are regulated by provincial colleges. You may consult chiropractors directly without requiring a referral from your medical doctor.
