Treatments & therapies:

Chiropractic

Whether you’re dealing with persistent or acute pain, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to improve your physical health, chiropractic care offers an effective, personalised, and holistic approach to meet your unique needs.

What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mechanical issues within the musculoskeletal system (bones, muscles, and joints) and their impact on the nervous system and overall health. It is based on the principle that the body has an innate ability to heal when the spine and nervous system function optimally. Chiropractic care is a holistic, non-invasive approach aimed at relieving pain, improving mobility and function, and promoting overall well-being.

Chiropractors are regulated primary healthcare professionals who must complete a 4–5 year integrated master’s degree in chiropractic (MChiro). To practice in the UK, chiropractors must be registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC).

Chiropractors are highly trained to assess the neuro-musculoskeletal system and identify restrictions, imbalances, and dysfunction. Chiropractic care aims to restore optimal function using a variety of manual techniques, including safe, often gentle, specific spinal manipulation (“adjustments”), mobilisations and soft tissue techniques on the spine or other restricted areas of the body.

Additionally, chiropractors may use other techniques, such as instrument-assisted adjustments, and provide guidance on exercise, posture, self-care, and lifestyle habits that may be contributing to discomfort. This holistic approach allows chiropractors to address immediate pain, promote sustained well-being, and help prevent future issues.

Why see a chiropractor?

If you are experiencing pain or struggling with daily activities, you may benefit from chiropractic care.

Potential benefits of chiropractic care:

Pain management
Injury recovery
Reduced disability from muscle and joint pain
Preventative care – maintaining spinal health and preventing future issues
Improved quality of life

Who can chiropractic help?

Chiropractic care is widely recognised for treating back pain. Manual therapy, as provided by chiropractors and other healthcare professionals, is recommended by NHS NICE Guidelines for:

Low back pain and sciatica (2016)
Hip and knee osteoarthritis (2022)

Other conditions that may benefit from chiropractic care:

Neck pain
Headache management
Joint pain
General aches and pains, from joints, muscle spasm and cramp
Sporting aches and pains
Postural issues
Shoulder pain
Elbow pain
This list is not exhaustive

What to expect on your first visit

At your first appointment, your chiropractor will conduct a comprehensive health assessment, to determine the cause of your symptoms and whether chiropractic care is appropriate for you. This includes:

A detailed discussion of your current condition, medical history, and overall health (please bring with you a list of any medications you take)
A physical examination, and if necessary, recommendations for additional investigations, such as x-rays

Parts of the initial assessment may require the removal of some clothing; if this is necessary, a gown will be provided.

Following the assessment, your chiropractor will explain their findings, discuss recommended treatment options, and outline the potential benefits and risks of care. A personalised treatment plan will be developed with regular reviews to monitor progress.

Chiropractors have broad diagnostic skills, and if your condition is not suitable for chiropractic care or requires further investigation, your chiropractor will liaise with your GP or other healthcare professionals to arrange an appropriate referral.