Treatments (chiro)

These are manual forms of passive joint movement that aim at restoring the correct function and relieve restriction of the joint.  Manipulation or adjustments involves a high velocity, low amplitude thrust that is administered towards the end range of movement. An audible ‘click’ is often heard and this is gas escaping from the fluid that surrounds the joint.  Mobilisation involves small passive oscillating movements that range from the early range of movement to the end range depending on the patient and the joint. Some of the techniques we use include Diversified, Functional Neurology, Gonstead, S.O.T, Thompson Technique, Applied Kinesiology (AK), Syntropy methods.

An Activator is a tool used by Chiropractors as an alternative to manual manipulation. It is a small spring-loaded instrument that delivers a small impulse to the spine. It is used commonly in the treatment of babies, children and in the elderly as a more gentle approach to treatment, but is used on all ages as a compliment to other treatment techniques.

There are many forms of muscle therapy including massage, trigger point therapy, ischaemic compression, cross friction and myofascial release. It involves the manual manipulation of any soft tissue including muscles, connective tissue, tendons and ligaments. Massage refers to kneading and rubbing of a muscle, trigger point therapy and ischaemic compression involves applying a direct pressure to trigger points (knots) within the muscles and cross friction creates heat within the area and increases the inflammatory response and in turn, the healing speed.

Dry needling (or intramuscular stimulation) involves the insertion of a very thin acupuncture needle into trigger points (knots) within a muscle without injecting any substance. They aim to ‘break down’ the trigger point and therefor reduce the local and referred pain that can be caused by tight muscles. This differs from Traditional Chinese Acupuncture that works on the bodies Meridians.

There is a lot of information around on how to properly manage acute injuries. Modalities include heat, cold (cryotherapy), compression, rest, loading etc. Each body and each injury differs and a tailored approach can be set based on the individual person. 

There are many form of strapping or taping. Rigid taping can be used to prevent an injury or protect one. It involves a specific technique that changes depending on the patient and the injury.  Kinesio© Tape and RockTape© are a more flexible form of tape that aids in supporting and stabilising joints without affecting circulation and range of motion.  It is also used for preventative maintenance, reducing swelling by lifting the skin from the deep layers to increase blood flow and treating pain by interfering with pain signals (like rubbing an injured area to make it feel better).

IASTM tools are handheld instruments in various shapes and sizes, usually made of stainless steel, that are used to break up abnormal densities in tissue (such as scar tissue) and to initiate the first stage of healing in the body (creates good inflammation).  There are many different instruments used to perform IASTM. This includes Myobar©, Graston©, STMFish©, Guasha and more.

Lymph nodes are situated throughout the body and are responsible for producing lymph (a clear fluid that removes excess fluid and toxins from the body).  If lymph builds up in an area, it can become painful and interfere with normal function. Lymphatic drainage massage assists the body to reduce this build-up of lymph.

Exercises are often prescribed to help joint integrity, improve performance and decrease pain. These exercises can vary from basic range of motion to overall strengthening depending on the patient. Practitioners can tailor a program that fits with your daily lifestyle and ability. Strengthening and mobility exercises compliments treatment and can improve the overall outcome for the patient. 

Rehabilitation is very important after an injury or surgery to decrease chances of reoccurrence or ongoing problems. Prehabilitation can help prepare for surgery or prevent injury and can help reduce recovery time. These programs are tailored by the practitioner based on the injury, individual and environment.

A very large part of our health comes down to our lifestyle. It is very important to ensure you are not lacking in any one area. Having a healthy balanced diet and regular exercise is very important for health and well being. Advice on these areas can be very beneficial for overall improvement.

In some instances, a patient may require referral to another health care practitioners. We pride ourselves on our multimodal approach to care and can referral you to the appropriate person for further management or co-management.