Many people have questions about the chiropractor, acupuncture and massage therapy. Our therapists at Chiro & Sports Med in Gladesville have listed the most common questions with answers about chiropractic.
What’s the difference between chiropractors, osteopaths and physiotherapists?
We don’t believe in trying to define the role of any other health professional. The practice principals at Chiro & Sports Med are chiropractors and they could only tell you what makes them as individuals different, but that doesn’t necessarily apply to all others. We believe that the results of treatment depend more on individual skill and experience than the particular discipline a practitioner belongs to. Among manual practitioners, regardless of their profession, some possess a real talent for their chosen discipline and consequently achieve better results than others.
How effective is chiropractic treatment?
Over recent years Government and medical studies over recent years have shown the benefits chiropractic care. For example: to be less expensive, use fewer drugs and have higher patient satisfaction than conventional medical care for back, neck and other musculoskeletal pain.
At Chiro & Sports Med we believe the best outcome is achieved by working in unison with your existing health care providers, including medical doctors and other allied health professionals.
Is chiropractic treatment available under medicare?
Yes. Under a new scheme launched by the Australian government in 2005, you may receive up to 5 subsidised treatments a year from a chiropractor under medicare. But only when referred from your GP for the management of a long-term chronic condition (generally greater than 6 months).
Do I need a referral to see your practitioners?
No. Anyone can make an appointment. During a consultation it may be necessary to consult with your general practitioner and/or specialist if the problem is outside the realm of our care or if further medical tests/examinations are required to make an accurate diagnosis.
If I’m pregnant can I still get treated?
Looking after your back, pelvis and pelvic floor during pregnancy is vital. Chiropractic and massage provide a safe and gentle non-invasive way. We understand the changes that occur in the body, especially of the low back and pelvis, during the various phases of pregnancy and have many gentle and effective techniques unique to chiropractors to help you during this time and immediately following birth.
At Chiro & Sports Med we have a specialised pregnancy pillow to facilitate greater patient comfort and ease of positioning during treatment. We also find that many women benefit significantly from our individually tailored exercise programs to improve the strength of the core muscles of the low back and the pelvic floor making pregnancy more comfortable and leading to an easier delivery and faster recovery times.
When is massage therapy suitable?
Any time! Massage therapy perfectly complements the chiropractic treatment already provided at the clinic and is an excellent way of maintaining a healthy body. It is a great way to reduce the muscular tension. This tension accumulates in our body as a result of the physical and emotional stresses associated with everyday life.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Most patients find it best if they wear lose comfortable clothing, such as tracksuit pants or shorts and a t-shirt.
Do you treat patients under WorkCover, TAC and Veterans Affairs?
Yes we do. Chiropractors and massage therapists are registered to manage these patients. You do not require a doctor’s referral in most instances. We would appreciate you bringing all relevant documentation to your initial consultation, such as claim numbers, date of injury and name of insurer with contact details where applicable. Please advise the clinic at the time of your booking if you plan to claim under one of these categories. Further information will be available to you at that time.
Will I still be able to exercise whilst I’m having treatment?
Generally exercise is the best medicine. Your practitioner will conduct a thorough assessment of your body’s structure and function during your consultation. They will then advise you regarding the suitability of your exercise regime. There may be aspects of your exercise program that are contributing to your condition. Therefore it may only be a simple matter of incorporating some additional exercises into your routine.In some instances certain activities may need modification, or ceased, until your condition has resolved.
Our practitioners may suggest an individually tailored exercise program to improve the strength and stamina of the core muscles of the back. This accelerates injury recovery, but it can also prevent injury and as a means to self-manage chronic conditions, such as low back pain.
What fees should I expect and how many treatments will I need?
We are very reasonably priced, as we believe good health care should be available to all. Many patients can expect to see good results within 4 to 6 treatments. However, the number of visits required by an individual depends on many factors. Such as age, severity of the injury, general health, occupation and compliance to advice and exercises. Discussion with each individual at the initial consultation when we have a thorough understanding of your complaint.
Will my chiropractic treatment be covered with my health fund?
This is really a question for your health insurance company. In most cases, if you have extras cover you will generally be covered not only for Chiropractic, but Remedial Massage, Custom Orthotics and Digital X-Rays.
At Chiro & Sports Med, we have on the spot claiming facilities, so all you have to do is bring your health care card and we scan it at the reception desk. This way you only pay the gap left after your health insurance has paid their share. The gap amount varies with the level of extras cover you have.
We accept most major health insurance companies including BUPA, Medibank Private, NIB, HCF and Defence Health. To see if your health fund is a participating health fund with HICAPS click on the following link www.hicaps.com.au/providers/participating-partners/
What hours are you open?
We are open Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 12:30pm and 2:00pm to 6:30pm and Saturday from 8:00am to 12:30pm.
How do I get to your clinic?
We are located on Victoria Road across the road from the clock tower at the intersection of Meriton Road.
Do you have parking available?
Parking is available on Victoria Road with 1 to 2 hour limits from 10:00am to 3:00pm. Off-street parking is also available on Junction Street and Cowell Street.
