However, no two chiropractors work the same way as they are trained in many different techniques during their five years of university education. Techniques available include Diversified, Gonstead, Activator (click gun), Drop-table, SOT and many more.

It’s important for each patient to find a provider that uses a treatment method that is suited to their individual needs. Chiropractic treatment provides effective relief for migraines and headaches, lower back pain, neck stiffness, tendonitis type conditions, deep muscular pain, sciatica and joint pain. Recent research is also showing that physical treatment is more effective than over the counter medication for treating common back problems. 

Rather than just relieving symptoms, chiropractors can identify the cause of the problem. A chiropractor is trained to restore normal function to all the joints in the body including the neck, lower back, ankles and wrists. An experienced chiropractor will not usually require x-rays to diagnose the most likely cause of pain unless there has been specific trauma such as a car accident or concussion.

If you think you would benefit from a chiropractic treatment, word of mouth referral is the best way to find a good practitioner. You should also expect at least 15 minutes of soft-tissue massage as part of your treatment, some form of hands-on joint manipulation (which is generally painless), mobilisation and stretching techniques. Many patients often benefit from the additional use of acupuncture needles to target tight muscles in common places like the legs and buttocks.

A good practitioner should be able to relieve your pain and discomfort after one or two visits and you will probably only require maintenance treatment every four to six weeks depending upon your particular situation. There will be exceptions, but don’t feel you have to commit to long term ongoing treatment if you’re not seeing results.