How does Chiropractic work?

Chiropractors maintain that wellness is possible with a healthy nerve supply to our cells, tissues and organs. Vertebral subluxation can interfere with the nervous system and limit our bodies inborn ability to be well. Spinal adjustments are designed to improve spinal function and reduce the potential for nervous system interference.

What is the difference between chiropractic, osteopathy and physiotherapy?

Each discipline has its own philosophy and techniques. Individual practitioners will differ within each discipline in their preferred style. This makes it difficult to compare the professions except in broad and often misleading ways.

Seek the advice of trusted friends and health advisers to arrive at your own conclusions. Find what is right for you.

Do I need a referral from my general practitioner?

In most cases you do not need a referral from your general practitioner to see a chiropractor. A referral is not required if the case is private or third party such as TAC or Workcover.

A referral is required if the case is under Department of Veteran Affairs or is payable through Medicare under the Enhanced Primary Care program. Contact your general practitioner for details.

Is it safe to see a chiropractor?

A number of significant independent reports into the safety of chiropractic have been done over the years. Please look at the items in the menu above for more details on this.

Do I need to have X-rays?

Not necessarily. The chiropractor is fully trained to determine on a case-by-case basis the need to have x-rays. For example x-rays are strongly indicated if there has been a recent trauma such as a fall or motor vehicle accident. Some chiropractors like to have x-rays of all there patients as a matter of routine.

Is chiropractic service payable under Medicare?

In most cases chiropractic is not under the Medicare rebate system. There are some circumstances of chronic pain that a general practitioner can recommend chiropractic care under an Enhanced Primary Care program. Consult your general practitioner if you think this may be the case.

Is chiropractic service payable under private health funds?

Dependent upon your particular fund chiropractic attracts a rebate as an “extra”.

How much education does a chiropractor have?

Chiropractors receive a challenging five year full-time course.  This can be done in Melbourne at RMIT, in Sydney at Macquarie University and in Perth at Murdoch University. The courses challenge students in anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, biomechanics, pathology, neurology, radiology, chiropractic sciences and spinal adjustment. Ongoing professional development and membership of professional bodies is encouraged.

Who regulates chiropractors?

Each state has a registration body made up of chiropractors, medical doctors and private community representatives. This body receives fees from chiropractors to be registered. The registration body ensures a set of laws and standards are met.