FAQs

What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a regulated health profession that makes up one of the largest primary health care professions in Ontario. This means that patients can book directly with chiropractors, without a referral!

Chiropractic is a non-invasive, evidence-based, conservative approach that focuses on the neuromusculoskeletal system. Chiropractors are highly educated and trained to assess, diagnose, treat, and prevent conditions involving the spine, joints, muscles, and the nervous system.

Chiropractors use unique combinations of treatments that are specific to each patient to improve quality of life. An initial chiropractic assessment will involve a thorough history and physical examination, diagnosis, and treatment plan designed to help patients optimize their health. Most patients receive treatment on the first visit. Chiropractic care can be used to alleviate pain, reduce risk of injuries, or improve flexibility, mobility, strength, and posture. Common conditions that Chiropractors treat:

• Back pain

• Neck pain

• Strains

• Sprains

• Work and sports injuries

What is a chiropractic adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment is form of manual manipulation and is referred to as Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT) when applied to the spine.

An adjustment is a joint-specific, high velocity, low amplitude thrust that helps to restore motion in the joints and improve overall function. It can be performed on many joints in the body – not just the spine! Generally, adjustments do not hurt; many people report immediate relief after an adjustment!

The popping sound sometimes heard during an adjustment is called a cavitation; it is caused by gas bubbles and pressure being released from the joint.

While adjustments are a great tool, your chiropractor has many other tools in their toolbox that can achieve great results! Your chiropractor will use clinical expertise, evidence, and patient preference to determine a treatment plan that is best for the patient. Please talk to your chiropractor today to see if an adjustment is right for you!

The above information was adapted from the Ontario Chiropractic Association. For more information, please visit www.chiropractic.on.ca.

What to expect on your first chiropractic appointment?

Your first appointment will include a thorough history and physical exam where we aim to find the root of your concerns. The physical exam will test range of motion, assess posture, and utilize special orthopaedic tests designed to identify structures that may be the cause of your complaint. We then provide you with a diagnosis, unless other imaging or referrals are necessary. Then we will make a treatment plan based on your preference, best external evidence, and clinical expertise. Finally, we will finish off the appointment with some treatment to get you movin’ and groovin’!

What is massage therapy?

Massage therapy is a form of hands-on treatment that improves the function of the muscular, nervous, and circulatory systems. Registered massage therapists are trained to treat the soft tissues of the body, using various techniques such as deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and more.

An initial massage therapy appointment will include an assessment of the muscles and joints, a health history, and a proposed personalized treatment plan to help patients optimize their health.

The above information was adapted from the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario. For more information, please visit www.cmto.com.

What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a talk-based therapy aimed to help people improve and maintain their mental health and well-being. Individuals may choose to book a psychotherapy appointment when they have thoughts, feelings, or behaviours that are adversely affecting their daily life. Our Psychotherapist works with individuals, offering both in-person and virtual appointments. The goal of psychotherapy treatment is to work together to bring about positive change in the client’s thinking, feeling, and functioning.

The above information was adapted from the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. For more information, please visit www.crpo.ca.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a technique that involves inserting thin needles into targeted areas to stimulate the body’s healing process. Acupuncture can lead to a release of endorphins that help tackle pain and decrease inflammation. The needles also signal the nerves to normalize pathways in the nervous system that help restore muscle strength and improve movement. Acupuncture can be used to treat conditions such as back pain, knee pain, sprains and strains, headaches, and more!

Do you offer direct billing to insurance companies?

We sure do! We offer direct billing to most insurance companies. All you have to do is bring in your insurance card to your appointment and we will set up the rest! Our online booking system also makes it even easier - you will have the option to fill in your insurance information online when booking an appointment! At the time of your appointment, our receptionist will submit the claim to your insurance provider - just keep in mind you will be responsible to cover any amount not covered by your provider.

Can I use my insurance for acupuncture?

Our chiropractors are certified in acupuncture; this means that they can use acupuncture as an adjunctive treatment in their chiropractic practice. Acupuncture can be included in a chiropractic treatment plan if deemed necessary by the practitioner. If you receive acupuncture from a chiropractor, it must be billed under chiropractic coverage. Specific acupuncture coverage can only be used when being treated by an Acupuncturist.

What are custom orthotics?

Your feet are the foundation of the body! Orthotics help support your feet to carry your entire body weight. Custom orthotics are designed specific to a patient’s foot with the intent to help return the foot to a healthier movement pattern during walking gait. Orthotics can help with conditions such as foot, ankle, knee, hip, or low back pain. After a thorough gait and foot examination, we will determine if orthotics are right for you!

What is your cancellation policy?

All cancellations must be made a minimum of 24 hours prior to your appointment time. Any appointments cancelled with less than the 24 hour notice will be charged in full. These policies are in place to value both our practitioners, who work diligently to prepare for each patient and appointment, and our patients. Proper notice of cancellations allow for other patients to receive care. Thank you very much for your understanding.