FAQ

What is a ''Subluxation'' ?

“Subluxation” is a term used to describe a problem with a spinal joint. The World Health Organization defines a “subluxation” as a functional problem related to a joint and the structures associated with the joint such as the muscles, tendons and nerves. Dysfunction can present itself in various ways such as pain, inflammation and restricted movement of the joint. Some types of dysfunction, such as a sprain, will not appear on an x-ray. Chiropractors are trained to identify dysfunction that does not appear on imaging through the use of manual examination and non-imaging diagnostic tests.

What is an Adjustment ?

An adjustment is a highly-skilled and precise movement usually applied by hand to the vertebrae of the spine or other joints of the body. Adjustment corrects the joint to restore proper movement and improve function. When a joint is adjusted, an air bubble may escape causing a popping noise, similar to when you crack your knuckles.  Depending on the nature of the problem, your chiropractor may also utilize joint mobilization, muscle release techniques and therapeutic exercises to relieve your pain and get you moving again. 

How are Chiropractors educated ?

Following three years of university education, chiropractors acquire their skills through a rigorous four-year (Ontario) or five-year (Quebec), full-time accredited academic program including internship.  Chiropractors must then pass comprehensive Canadian qualifying examinations in order to become licensed to practice.  Chiropractors are regulated health professionals.

Is a Chiropractor licensed ?

Chiropractors are registered with The College of Chiropractors of Ontario in order to practice in Ontario: http://www.cco.on.ca.

Do I need a refferal to see a Chiropractor ?

You do not require a doctor’s referral to see a chiropractor, as they are primary health care professionals. 

What should I expect on my first visit ?

On your first visit, we will need you to fill out some paperwork which will take about 10 minutes to complete. Please arrive 10 minutes early for this process.

Your chiropractor will complete the initial assessment. Your chiropractor will discuss the following:

• Your medical history
• Your current problem/concerns
• Pain quality, what aggravates and relieves your pain
• Goals for treatment

Once your chiropractor has asked all the questions related to your condition, they will complete a physical evaluation including:

• Observing and touching the area
• Looking at the mobility of the joint
• Testing the strength of the muscles
• Neurological screening to see how the nerves are functioning
• Other special tests relating to your condition

The chiropractor will formulate a treatment plan based on their assessment findings and will discuss what follow up will be necessary, what your treatment program will consist of and what is expected after discharge from treatment.

Does Chiropractic treatment usually require X-rays ?

X-rays can play an important role in diagnosis and are taken only when a need has been determined after taking a patient’s case history and conducting a physical examination. Governments in every province have recognized the training and competence of chiropractors to take and interpret X-rays and have granted them this right.

How should I dress ?

We recommend that you wear loose comfortable clothing for your assessment and follow up visits in order for the chiropractor to provide thorough assessment and treatments. Try to expose the area where the problem is. If it is a shoulder issue, it is best to wear a tank top, if it is a knee issue, it is best to wear shorts and if it is a back issue it is best to wear a loose top that can be lifted up for assessment purposes. If you are unsure how you should dress for your condition, don’t hesitate to ask us before you come. 

How long will each session last ?

The time frame for your initial assessment is approximately 45 minutes. The time frame for the follow up visits will depend on the nature of your condition. Typically sessions are anywhere between 10 minutes to 15 minutes. 

What are my payment options ?

We accept VISA, MasterCard, Interact debit and cash payments. Payment is required at the end of each session. You will be given a receipt with your service provider’s information and registration number. This receipt can be used to claim your benefits if you have health insurance that covers your treatment. You will have to send your receipt and claim form to your insurance provider and than you will be reimbursed. Unfortunately, we do not bill your insurance company directly. If you do not have health insurance coverage, we recommend that you save your receipt for income tax purposes.

Is Chiropractic care covered by health insurance ?

Chiropractic care and Orthotics are generally covered by most extended health insurance policies. We recommend that you call your insurance provider to determine the extent of your coverage.

Can I see a Chiropractor If I am not injured and don't have any pain ?

Yes you most certainly can. At Rockland Family Chiropractic & Wellness Centre, we focus on helping you achieve the most optimal overall health and wellness and this encompasses preventative care. Joints can have disturbed biomechanics without pain or other symptoms. Chiropractors identify such joints and by adjustments, help restore normal biomechanics and load distribution. This help optimize function and may reduce the risk of future problems or injuries. Don’t wait for pain, be proactive !

''I heard I'll have to go forever'' is a myth

You may want to go to your chiropractor forever once you’ve started because you didn’t realize how great getting adjusted is, but your doctor won’t expect you to come for continuous care without symptoms. Generally, if you come in with pain, once you’ve been treated for your initial complaint, you’ll be scheduled for a few more appointments to make sure proper motion is being maintained, then it will be recommended you return occasionally to be checked just like you would go to the dentist to get checked for tartar buildup and cavities. Of course, many people still choose to see their chiropractor monthly for wellness or maintenance care.

What research has been done on Chiropractic care ?

Chiropractic is a healing discipline firmly grounded in science.  Spinal manipulative therapy (adjustment) provided by doctors of chiropractic has been researched extensively both in Canada and internationally. Chiropractors offer a safe, non-invasive approach to joint and muscle problems.