Not every visit involves an adjustment
People sometimes assume a chiropractor only does spinal adjustments. Treatment plans at our clinic can include specific adjustments, soft-tissue massage, exercise programmes, rehabilitation advice and ergonomic advice. The original clinic site also lists dry needling among the techniques used.
Which of these, if any, is right for you depends on your assessment and your preferences. If you would rather not have a particular technique, say so — there is usually another option.
What dry needling is, and is not
Dry needling uses fine, sterile, single-use needles in tight or tender areas of muscle. It is different from acupuncture, which is based on a separate tradition; our clinic offers dry needling, not acupuncture.
Needling is only used after an assessment and with your consent. Tell your chiropractor if you take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, are pregnant, have a needle phobia or have a condition that affects your immune system. Short-term soreness or a small bruise afterwards can happen.
How consent works
Before treatment your chiropractor should explain what they propose, why, what the common and serious risks are, and the alternatives. You can ask questions, ask for time to think, or decline. Consent is not a one-off; you can change your mind during a visit.
The first visit
Allow about an hour. After a few forms, your chiropractor asks about your symptoms and health history, then examines posture, joints, nerves and muscles. An x-ray may be requested if clinically indicated. A report of findings, about 30 minutes, follows at your second visit; regular visits after that are about 15 minutes.
When hands-on care is not the answer
Some situations need medical assessment before any manual treatment:
- Pain with fever or feeling unwell
- Known or suspected osteoporosis, bone cancer or recent fracture
- New numbness, weakness or changes to bladder or bowel control
- Pain after a significant fall or accident
What to wear and bring
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that lets your chiropractor see and reach the area being assessed — shorts or leggings for back and hip problems, a singlet or loose top for neck and shoulder problems. If dry needling might be discussed, eat a normal meal beforehand, as some people feel light-headed with needles on an empty stomach.
Bring a list of your medications, any recent scan reports, and a DVA card or EPC referral from your GP if one applies. Arrive a few minutes early to complete forms; reception can help if you need it.
Hours, parking and access
Weekdays 8am to 12pm and 3pm to 7pm; Saturday 8am to 12pm. Parking is available and there is disabled ramp access. Book online for live availability or call (02) 9622 5652.