Get ready Elevate, we’ve added chiropractic to Bowmanville’s best Wellness Centre!
Our resident smarty pants, Dr. Emily Simpson, is now offering chiropractic treatments. Not sure what chiropractic is, don’t love the idea of being “cracked”, or think chiro is just about the spine? Read below to learn more about how chiropractor’s use a variety of techniques to help manage, treat and alleviate different ailments – sometimes without ever cracking you!
What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic treatment is a hands-on technique that focuses on affecting changes to joints, muscles, connective tissue, ligaments, tendons, and nerves throughout the body.
Chiropractors are known for treating spinal conditions, however, we are qualified to treat extremities as well. Chiropractic care can benefit a multitude of conditions, including, but not limited to: headaches, TMJ/Jaw dysfunction, neck and back pain, ‘sciatic’ issues, repetitive strain/tendinopathies, nerve entrapment, arthritic related pain, etc.
The adjustment is a tool specific to chiropractors and is a type of mobilization, using a controlled sudden force, that is very effective in improving joint motion. However, many different techniques are commonly used by chiropractors to relieve pain, and restore or optimize normal function, including:
- muscle release techniques
- kinesiology tape
- instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization
- joint mobilizations and adjustments
- providing injury prevention and relief strategies
- sharing knowledge, and exercise prescription.
The initial appointment involves a thorough history, assessment, and treatment. Based on the assessment an issue with be diagnosed, discussed with the patient, and treated accordingly.
Treatments are tailored to each individual and techniques are chosen based on: research, clinical evidence, and patient preference.
Chiropractic is non-invasive, drug free, and is often used in conjunction with other treatment options.
What education do Chiropractors have?
Chiropractic education requires a minimum of 7 years post secondary education, however, is most often completed in 8 years. There are only two chiropractic colleges in Canada. The Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) is a unique institution that highlights evidence-based care, conducts research, and promotes excellence through its’ rigorous 4 year program.
The education concentrates on three areas of learning:
- Biological and health sciences, including: anatomy, physiology, histology, biochemistry, psychology, clinical and radiological diagnosis, rehabilitation, etc.
- Specialized chiropractic training with theoretical and practical components, including: theoretical studies, orthopedics, practice, radiography, radiology, diagnosis and application, etc.
- Extensive clinical training. The last year of the program at CMCC is spent in 12 months of clinical training.
Successful graduates become Doctors of Chiropractic.