This week, Dr. Brynne continues answering some of the most common questions surrounding chiropractic care.
When should I see a chiropractor?
There are many reasons to see a chiropractor: work demands, accidents, sports injuries, even the stress of daily living can cause painful joint and spinal problems. Many patients also seek chiropractic treatment for wellness care. Even if you do not have painful symptoms, chiropractic can help you maintain healthy spine and joint function.
What conditions do chiropractors treat?
To list a few, chiropractors can treat:
· Back pain
· Neck pain
· Headaches
· Sprains/strains
· Tendinopathies
· Plantar fasciopathy
· Nerve entrapments
· Pain associated with arthritis
· Work and sports injuries
What is an adjustment?
One of the most frequently used chiropractic treatments is manual manipulation of the vertebrae of your spine or other joints, which is called an ‘adjustment.’ To perform an adjustment, your chiropractor will use their hands to apply controlled force to the joint and guide it through a range of motion. This evidence-based therapy restores your joint’s natural movement and improves its function. As your joint’s motion improves, so does your ability to move through your day without pain.
Do chiropractors do more than adjustments?
Chiropractors use various treatments depending on their patient’s specific needs and preferences. Common treatments include:
· Manual, ‘hands-on’ therapy including mobilizations and adjustments
· Soft tissue therapy
· Customized, therapeutic exercise programs
· Self-management tools and techniques
· Advice and education
· Electronic modalities, such as therapeutic ultrasound and cold laser therapy
· Acupuncture
Is chiropractic care covered by OHIP?
Chiropractic care is not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). However, many Ontarians may have extended health care benefits. This is a plan that your employer, union, trade or professional organization has set up as part of your workplace benefits package. If you’re self-employed, you can purchase an individual EHC plan from various health care insurance providers.
Is chiropractic effective?
Chiropractic care is widely recognized as one of the safest, drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for treating headaches, neck and back pain, as well other joint, muscle or nervous system issues.
