What is Chiropractic and how can it help?

What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic (derived from the Greek "cheir" + praktikos") meaning "done by hand" is defined by the World Health Organisation as "a health care profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disorders of the neuro-musculoskeletal system and the effects of these disorders on general health. There is a general emphasis on manual techniques including joint adjustment and/or manipulation with a particular focus on spinal joint dysfunction."

How can Chiropractic Help?

A Chiropractors key area of expertise is in the neuro-musculoskeletal system and are hence trained to treat any condition affecting this system. Whether that be headaches, a strained hamstring, lower back pain, a rotator cuff injury, an ankle sprain or neck pain.

Chiropractors are also trained in numerous treatment modalities on top of the traditional Chiropractic adjustment to treat such complaints. These include, soft tissue therapy (massage), dry needling/acupuncture, stretching, applied kinesiology, physiological therapeutics (ultrasound, interferential, TENS), structural taping, rehabilitative exercises as well as dietary and lifestyle advice.

 

What are the qualifications of Chiropractors?

Today's Chiropractor must complete a 5 year full time university degree course, which includes anatomy, physiology, pathology, radiology, neurology, diagnostic sciences, physical examination and Chiropractic technique, followed by fieldwork.

Chiropractors are qualified as primary healthcare professionals. That is, they specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of neuro-musculoskeletal conditions, primarily those related to the spine and nervous system, but can also include extremity conditions.

Some of the conditions Chiropractic can be beneficial in treating?

  • Back and neck pain
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Arthritis Shoulder, hip, leg and arm pain
  • Extremity Conditions
  • Muscle Spasm
  • Sciatica
  • Sporting Injuries
  • Scoliosis
  • Stress
  • Dizziness/Vertigo
  • Fibromyalgia

Is Chiropractic care safe?

The World Health Organisation states that when "employed skilfully and appropriately, Chiropractic care is safe and effective for the prevention and management of a number of health problems."

Am I covered for Chiropractic care?

A medical referral is not required to consult a Chiropractor. Claims for Chiropractic care are covered by WorkCover, TAC and the Department of Veteran's Affairs.

Private health insurance companies provide rebates for Chiropractic care. Some people can now have limited access to Chiropractic under the Medicare systems Enhanced Primary Care Plan

Claims and Payments

The clinic has HICAPS which is an electronic, claims and payments system, offering members of participating health funds, the convenience of automatic claims processing, on the spot in the practice. Meaning your health insurance claim is processed on the spot and leaving on the gap to be paid.

The clinic is also a preferred provider with Medibank "Members' Choice" and HBA "Members First", meaning extra benefits and higher rebates for members with the corresponding extras cover.

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Level 2, 343 Little Collins Street Melbourne, 3000 P: 03 9670 9950