Considering seeing a chiropractor? You’re definitely not alone. With over 5,072 registered chiropractors throughout Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the rest of Australia, according to the Chiropractic Board of Australia, there’s definitely a local chiropractor near you.

In fact, chiropractic care is one of the most popular forms of alternative treatment, being the largest drug-free health care profession in the world. But, don’t let the term ‘alternative’ scare you – many GPs are more than happy to refer patients to chiropractors for a whole range of ailments ranging from neck pain and back pain through to joint pain. Seeing a chiropractor for headaches is also very popular.

So what does a chiropractor actually do?

Chiropractic care is a respected healthcare discipline that focuses on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system, and how that relationship can affect a person’s health. They also emphasise the innate recuperative power of the human body to heal without the need for drugs or surgery, but, when needed, a chiropractor will understand the value of working closely with other health professionals in the best interests of a patient.

What training does a chiropractor do?

Just like other health professionals, a chiropractor spends many years undertaking training. In Australia, a chiropractor is required to undertake five years of tertiary education, which includes a bachelor’s degree in chiropractic science or education followed by a two-year postgraduate Masters degree.

The education doesn’t stop there, though. In order to uphold their registration and practice in Australia, just like doctors, chiropractors are required to undertake compulsory hours of continued professional development (known as CPD) annually. Because of this, you can feel confident seeking treatment from a chiropractor in this country.

How can a chiropractor help you?

Chiropractors are trained health professionals who specialise in detecting and addressing misalignment problems (known as subluxations) that interfere with the central nervous system. Subluxations can cause inflammation and nerve irritation, which causes pain, reduces mobility, and can contribute to joint degeneration.

By performing safe and gentle adjustments, chiropractors are able to relieve pain, assist with posture, spinal alignment, health maintenance, and the functionality of the nervous system.

Undergoing chiropractic treatment is seen as an alternative or complementary to taking pain-killers or undergoing surgery. Chiropractors are mostly known for adjusting spines and treating bad backs, but more and more patients see their chiropractors for more than just manual spine adjustments. Chiropractors are also knowledgeable when it comes to herbal supplementation, stress management, and spinal physical therapy.

The kinds of patients who may benefit from seeing a chiropractor include those suffering from:

• Neck pain –  ‘Text Neck’ – this refers specifically to neck pain that is caused by looking at your mobile device for too long.
• Back pain
• Poor posture
• Joint pain and osteoarthritis
• Injuries due to accidents or trauma
• Migraines, tension headaches or cluster headaches
• Sciatica, and more.

How much does a chiropractor cost?

The cost of chiropractic care will vary from practice to practice, so it’s important to call a local chiropractor to enquire about what they charge to find the best chiropractor for you.

Depending on what treatment you need, you could be required to pay for the following:

• An initial consultation
• Comprehensive examination
• Second visit and report of findings
• Spinal X-rays
• Spinal adjustments
• Progress exams and reports
• Lifestyle plans and assessments