Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is chiropractic and what is an adjustment?
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, hands on technique that is aimed at restoring optimal function to the human body. Chiropractors focus on the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of the joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves and fascia.
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An adjustment is a quick manoeuvre done to a specific joint that is not moving properly. You may hear that pop or crack which is just gas escaping from the joint; it is normal. Adjustments are done to restore the normal motion of a joint. Adjustments can be done to virtually any joint in the body.
Q: Is chiropractic care a safe form of treatment?
Yes! Chiropractic care is considered to be one of the safest hands-on, drug-free, non-invasive method of treating neck pain, back pain and headaches. In fact, in February 2017, the American College of Physicians stated that heat, soft tissue therapy, acupuncture and spinal manipulation should be the go-to treatment for non-specific low back pain.
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Just like any treatment out there, there are risks. The good thing with chiropractic care is that the most common risks are very minor (post-treatment soreness, mild bruising), and the bigger risks are extremely rare. Dr. Littlewood will go through the risks for your individualized treatment plan in order for you to stay informed in your own health.
Q: What kind of conditions do chiropractors treat?
Usually when one thinks of a chiropractor, they think of back & neck pain. While yes, those are the most common and traditional conditions chiropractors treat, we are also trained in assessing, diagnosing and treating any muscle or joint in the body.
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Some of the other common conditions chiropractors treat are:
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Headaches
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Jaw pain
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Concussion management
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Postural issues
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Shoulder pain/rotator cuff strain or tear
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Carpal tunnel syndrome
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Hip complaints
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Knee pain
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Ankle sprains
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Plantar fasciitis
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Arthritis
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Overuse & athletic injuries
Q: Are neck adjustments safe?
Yes, neck (or cervical) adjustments are a safe, and very effective, way to manage neck pain and often headaches.
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There is a lot of talk that neck adjustments can cause stroke or death, which is a myth. The most recent research tells us that the association of having a stroke is no different between seeing a chiropractor and seeing a medical doctor. This association is simply due to the fact that these patients are already having a stroke in progress. However, this is incredibly rare, so much so that a risk ratio cannot be formed.
Q: How long does it take to become a chiropractor?
Chiropractors require at least three years of an undergraduate degree before applying to chiropractic college. From there, it is a four year rigorous degree including a one year internship. Chiropractors must also take certifying exams and be in good standing with their provincial colleges.
Q: Do I need a referral from a medical doctor to see a chiropractor?
No! Chiropractors are primary health care practitioners meaning you can just phone, pop in, book online, or message me directly to set up your appointment.
Q: What should I expect on my first visit?
Your first appointment will be about 45 minutes long, and usually includes treatment.
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Your first appointment will consist of a comprehensive history about what is currently bothering you, and also your overall personal and family health. A physical exam will be performed, so it is suggested that you wear something that you can move in. Once the physical exam is complete, Dr. Donald will go over the findings with you and provide you an individualized treatment plan. He will also discuss all risks, benefits and alternatives to treatment.
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Your treatment plan may consist of any combination of the following: adjustments, mobilizations, soft tissue therapy, acupuncture, taping, rehabilitative exercises, nutritional advice, postural advice, ergonomic tips, radiographs, etc. It is my goal to get you back to your normal activities of daily living as quickly and seamlessly as possible.
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Subsequent visits are generally 20 minutes in length. Once your initial treatment plan is done, a re-assessment will be performed in order to ensure everything is going smoothly.