How many appointments will I need?

Every person, and the condition they are suffering from is unique, so it is challenging to determine exactly how many visits a person needs prior to an examination. However, we are dedicated to crafting a treatment plan for you that reflects the best of science, our clinical expertise and your goals. We will review your treatment plan with you directly, setting out goals and ensuring that you are completely comfortable with the process and costs associated.

I have never gone to a chiropractor before! What happens at a first visit? 

We respect that you have made a decision to explore a chiropractic solution to your health concerns! At your first visit, we want to get to know you! We will discuss what is bothering you and gather a detailed health history from you, followed by a physical and chiropractic examination. Chiropractors focus on how the muscles, joints and nerves of your body are functioning. After examining these systems in detail, your doctor will share with you recommendations and your suitability for chiropractic or other health solutions for you. 

Will I get adjusted on the first visit?

The best answer to this question is – maybe.. If your chiropractor feels that your condition can be treated with chiropractic care then they may choose to go ahead with an adjustment on the first visit. However,  they may choose to use heat or soft tissue therapy like massage or stretching, or a modality that helps with pain such as laser. Your doctor may wish to see x-rays or the result of another test before they can safely recommend an adjustment, It is very important that you and your doctor understand your condition and explore all the treatments that may be suitable prior to receiving care. 

How do I know whether to see the massage therapist or chiropractor? 

Your best bet when you are unsure of who to see first is to utilize the FREE 15 minute consult with one of the chiropractors. Chiropractors are trained to determine if pain is coming from joints, muscles, nerves or discs in the spine and as a result can quickly help you determine if you should start with chiropractic care or massage therapy. In these first 15 minutes you will be on the path to feeling better. 

Do I have to have my neck/back “cracked”?

Chiropractic care involves many different types of treatments, adjustments that result in the “cracking” noise you think about is only one of them. Other types of chiropractic adjustments do not result in any “cracking” and feel very gentle. Stretching, soft tissue therapy such as massage, mobilizations and exercise prescription are all under the umbrella of “chiropractic care” and are effective ways to feel and move better. 

Your chiropractor will discuss with you all treatment options that will be helpful to you so together you can decide what type of treatment suits you and your condition best. It’s your body, you get to determine what you feel comfortable with.

Does chiropractic care hurt?

Generally – no. The most common response we get after someone’s first treatment is – “Wow, that’s all? I was expecting it to hurt…I wish I had come a long time ago!” Chiropractic care works with your body, not against it and is not nearly as aggressive or deep as people generally expect. It’s reasonable to be nervous if you have never been to a chiropractor before, but we will take the time to explain it all in detail so you know exactly what to expect.  Your treatment will always start as gently as possible, introducing more techniques as your comfort level and condition dictate. 

What should I wear?

Loose comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily is best! Avoid heavy belts, big sweaters and restrictive clothing that impedes the natural movements of your body or are hard to “feel” through.

Will I feel better right away?

Some people do feel better almost immediately. But most do not. By the time most people get to their initial visit, their pain or symptoms have been with them for a while and logically, it will take some time for their body to heal from their injury or condition. Inflammation, swelling and the resulting pain you feel takes time to resolve and as your care plan helps you heal faster, you will feel better.

You will be given pain management strategies such as ice or heat, stretching or massage, working, sleeping and sitting advice and suggestions around natural or over the counter pain medication as part of your care plan so that you can be as comfortable as possible during your time of healing.

Do I need a referral from my medical doctor? 

You do not require a referral for Chiropractor, Naturopathic Doctors, Registered Social Workers or Registered Psychotherapists at any time.  Massage therapy, custom foot orthotics, Registered Social Worker (Counselling) or Registered Psychotherapy (Art Therapy), may require a medical doctor’s prescription for work benefit plans to cover the cost of treatment.