Frequently asked questions

How is a Chiropractor trained?
To become a Chiropractor in Australia, a course of a minimum of five years of university study must be completed. Chiropractors at Hunter Healthy Spines are members of the Chiropractor’s Association of Australia and must complete on-going training to maintain this membership . They have also received hours of additional education in anatomy, human function, and the taking and reporting of x-rays.

Is it safe?
Naturally you will want to know the answer to this question. The answer lies in the research. In one study of chiropractic practices in Boston USA, it was estimated that in 1998, approximately 420,000 children were treated by chiropractors. With this number of children being treated, if chiropractic was unsafe or dangerous, it is likely there would be a constant flow of reports of injury to children. In fact, exactly the opposite is true. In the scientific literature, there exists little evidence of harm coming from chiropractic. In an attempt to quantify the risk of injured in any way while receiving a chiropractic adjustment, a further study was performed in the United States and Canada which led the researchers to conclude that there is in fact so little evidence of harm coming from chiropractic that the actual risk factor could only be estimated as 1 in 250 million (at the most), and may be as low as 1 in 750 million.

To put this into perspective, you are 416 times more likely to be struck by lightning than be injured from a chiropractic adjustment!

Why would my child need to be checked?
riley-snodgrass.jpgThe birth process can be quite traumatic for an infant. It is now recommended that all children be checked by a chiropractor to ensure no damage has occurred to their spine and nervous system. This simple and safe process can prevent many problems from occurring later in life. It is especially important for a baby who has undergone a traumatic birth to be checked by a chiropractor. This is a different kind of check up from what a pediatrician does, and both are important. Clinical evidence, supported by ever increasing scientific research, shows the very real health benefits of Chiropractic care for babies and children.

“My daughter Louise is a little over 3 and has a severe speech delay. I decided to give chiropractic care a go since she is not making a lot of improvements doing other treatment. Since starting care she has started to be more outgoing, more confident, doing puzzles and is interested in other things. Overall she seems happier and I would always recommend chiropractic care”
Monica

Does the adjustment hurt?
At Hunter Healthy Spines we use a variety of low-force techniques, which allow us to adjust babies, children and the elderly.

What is that cracking sound?
That ‘cracking’ sound which sometimes occurs during adjustments is air and gas escaping from a joint. Your bones do not actually crack.

Do I have to have X-rays?
Your Chiropractor will discuss this with you and determine whether x-rays are needed, during the initial examination. If you already have x-rays, please bring them with you.

Will my health cover reimburse for Chiropractic Care?
All private health funds in Australia cover Chiropractic Care under ancillary cover. The type and level of cover will depend on your particular policy. Please contact your private health fund to determine your rebate.

Do I need a referral from my GP to see a Chiropractor?
No. Chiropractors are primary healthcare providers. After your initial examination and consultation, if it is clear that Chiropractic Care will not help you, we may refer you to another health practitioner.