Chiropractic FAQ’s
- What is chiropractic?
- What conditions do chiropractors treat?
- Is chiropractic treatment effective?
- Is chiropractic treatment safe?
- What type of education and training do chiropractors have?
- How is a chiropractic adjustment performed?
- Does chiropractic treatment require a referral from an MD?
- Do insurance plans cover chiropractic?
- What can I expect on the first visit?
- Can I get an appointment the same day?
What is chiropractic?
Chiropractic is based upon the understanding that health depends, in part, upon a normally functioning neuro-musculoskeletal system (nerves, muscles and bones, chiefly in the spine). It looks to address problems but by locating and adjusting a musculoskeletal area of the body which is functioning improperly.
What conditions do chiropractors treat?
Chiropractic care is used most often to treat complaints such as back pain, neck pain, joint pain in the hands, elbows, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles, sports injuries, pinched nerves and headaches.
Is chiropractic treatment effective?
Yes. Chiropractic care is both safe and effective. Scientific evidence proving that chiropractic care works is overwhelming.
Is chiropractic treatment safe?
Chiropractic care is widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of neuro-musculoskeletal complaints. The risk associated with chiropractic care is smaller than that of common pain medications.
What type of education and training do chiropractors have?
Dr. Boonstra is educated as a primary contact health care practitioner, just like your family physician, optometrist or dentist but with a specific emphasis on musculoskeletal diagnosis and treatment. Chiropractors typically have at least 7 years of post-secondary education, with a chiropractic curriculum of 4 years of intense classroom, laboratory and clinical education.
How is a chiropractic adjustment performed?
Our Vancouver Chiropractor uses his hands to manipulate the joints of the body, particularly the spine, in order to reduce pain, and restore or enhance joint function. Chiropractic manipulation is a highly controlled procedure that rarely causes discomfort. Treatment often includes soft tissue therapy, modalities and rehabilitative stretches and exercises.
Does chiropractic treatment require a referral from an MD?
No, a patient does not need referral by an MD before visiting a doctor of chiropractic. Chiropractors are first contact physicians, and are so defined in provincial and federal regulations. Following a consultation and examination, a doctor of chiropractic will arrive at a diagnosis and treatment plan, or refer the patient to the appropriate health care provider.
Do insurance plans cover chiropractic?
The majority of all insured Canadian workers have some coverage for chiropractic services in their extended health care plans. Chiropractic can be partially covered by ICBC for those who have a valid, approved claim.
What can I expect on the first visit?
Our Vancouver Chiropractor will conduct a thorough history of your current complaint, previous treatment, and relevant medical history. A full physical examination will be performed, including nerve and muscle testing and a comprehensive spinal examination. A treatment will usually be given, followed by home exercises. On the second visit, your chiropractor will take the time to discuss with you your diagnosis, your home exercise program and your treatment plan.
Can I get an appointment the same day?
Our Vancouver Chiropractor holds some appointments each day for emergency or last-minute patients. We will always attempt to accommodate your health needs. Booking in advance, however, assures that you will secure the time that is most convenient for you.