1. Are there any risks ?
  2. Will treatment hurt ?
  3. Do I need to see my GP before I get chiropractic treatment ?
  4. How long will chiropractic take to work ?
  5. How often do I need to come for treatments ?
  6. How often should check-ups be given ?
  7. Should I bring my family for chiropractic checks ?
  8. Is there scientific proof that chiropractic works ?
  9. What is the British Chiropractic Association ?
10. What is the difference between chiropractic and osteopathy ?
11. Can I get treatment on the NHS ?
12. Will chiropractic improve sporting performance ?
13. Can Chiropractors help osteoporosis ?
14. Are all patients adjusted the same way ?
15. Can a chiropractor treat a newborn baby ?
16. Can Chiropractic treatment be given during pregnancy ?
17. How can chiropractic help joints that are already degenerated ?
18. Is Chiropractic treatment possible after surgery ?
19. What is the popping noise of the adjustment ?
20. Do chiropractors use X-rays ?

Question 1: Are there any risks ?

Answer: Chiropractic has far fewer risks than many other treatments for your problem. Serious side effects are extremely uncommon and research shows that chiropractic is one of the safest and most effective forms of treatment available. Your chiropractor will, of course, be happy to discuss all your concerns regarding treatment.


Question 2: Will treatment hurt ?

Answer: Generally, a chiropractic adjustment does not hurt - although there may be some minor short-term discomfort that quickly passes for most patients. You will normally find that follow-up treatments are much more pleasant, as your symptoms improve and you feel more at ease with your chiropractor.



Question 3: Do I need to see my GP before I get chiropractic treatment ?

Answer: No. Chiropractors are 'primary-contact health professionals' which means that no referral is necessary. Many doctors will recommend chiropractic care or if asked by a patient, are happy for their patients to seek chiropractic care for themselves. Comprehensive chiropractic training enables a chiropractor to identify any signs that may suggest chiropractic would be unsuitable for the patient. If it is determined that another method of treatment is necessary (or more suitable) for a patient then an appropriate referral back to a GP (or other health professional) can be made.



Question 4: How long will chiropractic take to work ?

Answer: The answer to this question will depend on many factors. For back pain (the most common reason people think to consult a chiropractor), guidelines for medical practitioners state that spinal manipulation can help, especially if carried out within the first six weeks. The longer you have been in pain, the longer it may take to improve with treatment. You will be advised about the likely recovery time, and how to minimise the chances of the problem happening again. Early treatment is important but chiropractic is also effective at treating long-standing or chronic pain. We would expect most patients to show good signs of improvement within three treatments.



Question 5: How often do I need to come for treatments ?

Answer: This is a difficult question to answer, as every case is different. You will however be given an indication of the number of treatments it is anticipated that you will require during a 'report of findings', which take place towards the end of your initial consultation. On average we treat people between four to six times.



Question 6: How often should check-ups be given ?

Answer: Chiropractors practise in two main ways: one is to minimise the recurrence of your pain through 'supportive care'. The practitioner may recommend a check-up every two to six months depending on your original complaint and your lifestyle. The other approach is known as 'wellness care'. Here, you may wish your chiropractor to check you more frequently, to explore with you further ways you can enhance your wellbeing.



Question 7: Should I bring my family for chiropractic checks ?

Answer: Because chiropractic focuses on the integrity of the nervous system, particularly in respect to its relationship with the spine, the whole family will benefit from chiropractic check-ups.



Question 8: Is there scientific proof that chiropractic works ?

Answer: There have been many studies and reports in recent years supporting the use of chiropractic. The following link lists a number of these studies.

Research Supports Chiropractic

Question 9: What is the British Chiropractic Association ?

Answer: The British Chiropractic Association (BCA), founded in 1925, represents well over 50% of UK chiropractors and is the largest and longest established association for chiropractors in the UK. The BCA aims to promote, encourage and maintain high standards of conduct, practice, education and training within the profession in the UK. The BCA also supports and encourages the development of chiropractic research projects, supporting the progression of the profession in the UK and world-wide. Dr. Neil Bray is a member of the BCA.



Question 10: What is the difference between chiropractic and osteopathy ?

Answer: Chiropractic and osteopathy are both disciplines that involve the use of manipulation to treat a variety of conditions. Differences exist in the styles of manipulation used and in various aspects of training. The most important thing is to ensure that you are treated a practitioner who is well qualified and practices to a high standard of proficiency.



Question 11: Can I get treatment on the NHS ?

Answer: Traditionally chiropractic has been not been available on the NHS in the UK. Recent direction from the Department of Health in it's 'Musculoskeletal Services Framework' means that it may be possible in the near future for some chiropractic services to attract NHS funding.



Question 12: Will chiropractic improve sporting performance ?

Answer: Yes, probably. By going 'behind' the injury, chiropractic will help to eliminate the cause of your problems as well as improving the mechanics of your joints and muscles and the nerves supplying them. Many athletes find a significant improvement in performance because of this.



Question 13: Can Chiropractors help osteoporosis ?

Answer: Osteoporosis happens when the amount of calcium in the bones (which gives them strength) is very low and leaves them weak and easily breakable. This is particularly common in women past the menopause. However, having osteoporosis doesn't mean that you will have a fracture. Your BCA chiropractor will be able to use various modified treatment methods to cater for someone with osteoporosis, as well as to advise on other available treatments. Chiropractic helps to keep your joints mobile and improve your balance and muscle tone to minimise the risk of falling.



Question 14: Are all patients adjusted the same way ?

Answer: No. During your initial assessment an individual treatment plan will be established. This will set out which chiropractic techniques are likely to be best suited to your situation. As treatment progresses this will be reviewed and modified if necessary, in order to achieve the best results for each patient.



Question 15: Can a chiropractor treat a newborn baby ?

Answer: Yes, in fact the sooner your baby is checked, the sooner any injury or stresses from the birth can be dealt with safely and gently.



Question 16: Can Chiropractic treatment be given during pregnancy ?

Answer: Yes. Your chiropractor will use safe, often gentle techniques that are suitable for your condition. You may also be advised on your on diet, posture and exercise.



Question 17: How can chiropractic help joints that are already degenerated ?

Answer: Degenerated joints are sometimes the result of the surrounding joints not doing their fair share of work, so that the load is not managed equally. Chiropractic aims to restore your normal joint function spreading the load and taking excessive strain away from degenerated joints. Your chiropractor can also give you advice on exercise for maintaining joint function.



Question 18: Is Chiropractic treatment possible after surgery ?

Answer: Probably. Your chiropractor has the training and experience to treat each patient as an individual. You will receive appropriate treatment and adjustments for your specific condition, while areas not suitable for treatment will be carefully avoided. Some post-surgical advice, exercises and rehabilitation can also be offered in many instances.



Question 19: What is the popping noise of the adjustment ?

Answer: The 'pop' or 'crack' is simply the sound of bubbles of gas popping in the fluid of the joint as the pressure is released by the adjustment.



Question 20: Do chiropractors use X-rays ?

Answer: Any decision to take X-rays will be made in consultation with you. At all times, your BCA chiropractor will weigh the risks against the benefits and advise you accordingly. Typical circumstances where an X-ray may be necessary are recent injuries, older patients whose bone structure may have altered over time, unusual examination findings or a history of serious diseases.