Fullarton Chiropractic Centre
  
Frequently Asked Questions

How qualified is my Chiropractor?

Every person that calls themselves a chiropractor in the UK must be on a Government Register (with the general Chiropractic Council - GCC). In other words, as the Profession has statutory Regulation, each Chiropractor in the UK will have undergone a minimum amount of training and will have a recognized qualification. Usually Chiropractors train for four to five years, with three or four years intensive pre-clinical education, followed by a clinical year. Once fully qualified, Chiropractors are required to undergo Continual Professional Development by attending courses to keep ahead of the latest techniques and protocols. Without this, they cannot stay on the Government Register.

What is an adjustment or joint manipulation?

Treatment consists of gentle manipulative techniques, known as adjustments, to restore correct function, mobility and good alignment to the joints. As a result, nerve and muscular function will then be improved. After years of training and clinical experience, each chiropractic doctor becomes highly skilled in the delivery of a variety of adjusting approaches. There are many ways to adjust the spine. Usually the doctor's hands or a specially designed instrument (Activator) delivers a brief and highly accurate thrust. Some adjusting methods are quick, whereas others require a slow and constant pressure.

Will treatment hurt?

Generally, a chiropractic adjustment does not hurt - although there may be some minor discomfort which quickly passes. You will normally find that follow-up treatments are much more pleasant, as your symptoms improve and many people experience a feeling of general well-being after an adjustment.

Is Chiropractic safe?

Chiropractic has an excellent safety record. It is the result of a conservative approach to health that avoids invasive procedures or addictive drugs. Chiropractic is very safe when a qualified practitioner carries out treatment. Your chiropractor is trained to recognise conditions which require referral elsewhere.

Who do chiropractors treat?

Chiropractic treatment is suitable for people of all ages. A large variety of persons come for treatment from newborn children through to the elderly.

How long do the treatments take?

Your Initial consultation will take 45 minutes. Subsequent treatment will take 10-15 minutes or longer if the Chiropractor feels it is necessary. If you are not used to Chiropractic treatment, this may seem fairly quick, however this is completely normal for a Chiropractic Treatment and is ample time for the adjustments, and/or soft tissue work.

Why should I return if I'm feeling fine?

Your pains may be gone but the painful condition that brought you to this clinic has probably taken years to materialize, so treatments to stabilize the area may be required. If you have a lifestyle or occupation that caused the original condition, then regular treatments should also be considered.
 

What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?

Your massage therapist will require you to fill out a health history form. Afterwards the therapist will begin by asking you general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed and to determine if massage is appropriate for you. Your massage therapist may perform certain assessments and testing to evaluate your condition, and to see if you have any presenting complaints.

What do I wear during the massage?

Depending on the primary technique your therapist uses, you may need to undress. For a full body massage, most people undress down to your underwear, gowns will be provided for you to put on. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress, and you will be covered with a set of towels at all times during your massage except the area being worked on.

How will a massage feel?

It usually depends on the techniques used. Many massage therapists’ use a form of Swedish massage, which is often a baseline for practitioners. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes (effleurage) that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. Do not hesitate to ask questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that the massage therapist can use another approach or technique.

Is a massage always appropriate?

No, there are several medical conditions that would make massage inappropriate. That's why it is necessary that you fill out the health history forms and before you begin your session. The massage therapist will ask general health questions to rule out if you have any contraindications to massage. It is very important that you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications you are taking.

When should I get a massage?

Any time is a good time to get a massage. You don't need to wait until you're stressed or injured. Massage works wonders as preventive care for a person's body and mind. A regular massage is a wonderful way to cope with stress, both physical and emotional, and to keep if from causing discomfort or harm to your body.

How long do the effects of massage last? How often should I receive massage?

The duration of the effects of a massage vary greatly from person to person depending on your physical and mental condition, activities, ability to relax, and ability to heal. If you are receiving massage to help heal injury or to get rid of chronic pain, you usually need to receive weekly massage until you reach that goal.

If you are receiving massage for prevention, health maintenance, or just to feel better, you have more leeway in how often you receive massage. The effects of regular massage are cumulative. A massage every week or two can make a big difference in your overall health and tension levels. Even a monthly massage is beneficial. Make regular massage part of your health maintenance program (along with good nutrition and exercise), and you'll feel better.
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