What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic, as one of the largest primary care professions in British Columbia, is an evidence-based discipline that focuses on the musculoskeletal system. It is a non-invasive form of healthcare that involves hands-on treatment.
Chiropractors primarily use their hands to diagnose, treat, and prevent disorders related to the spine, pelvis, nervous system, and joints. They employ a combination of treatments tailored to the specific needs of each patient. This includes taking a thorough medical history, conducting an examination, and establishing a diagnosis. Based on this information, chiropractors develop and implement a comprehensive treatment plan. They may also recommend therapeutic exercise, non-invasive therapies, and provide guidance on nutrition, diet, and lifestyle.
One of the most commonly used therapies by chiropractors is spinal manipulative therapy (SMT), which encompasses various adjustment techniques. Chiropractors receive specific training in SMT, enabling them to perform precise adjustments to the vertebrae of the spine. These adjustments correct joint motion, restore proper movement, and enhance overall function.
Chiropractic care is often the primary method of treatment for conditions such as low back pain. In cases where a multi-disciplinary approach is necessary, chiropractors collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as acupuncture therapists or registered massage therapists, to coordinate care. Chiropractic care can complement or support medical or other treatments by addressing the musculoskeletal aspects associated with the condition.
Furthermore, chiropractic care can provide symptomatic relief for patients with chronic conditions.
What Conditions Can it Help with?
There are many reasons to seek chiropractic care:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Headache
- Whiplash
- Strains and sprains
- Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
- Work and sports injuries
- Arthritis
- Limited range of motion in the back, shoulder, neck or limbs
Chiropractic is a regulated health profession, recognized by statute in all Canadian provinces and American states.
Your First Chiropractic Visit
During your initial visit to our clinic, we aim to conduct a comprehensive assessment in order to identify the underlying causes of your health concerns. If deemed necessary, appropriate treatment will also be provided.
Upon arrival at the clinic, you will be warmly welcomed by our front desk staff, who will request your completed health history forms. Please note that if you prefer to fill out the forms at the clinic, it is advisable to arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to ensure punctuality.
Subsequently, you will have the opportunity to meet with Dr. Bahri, who will conduct a thorough examination of your spine. This examination will enable him to identify any irregularities in alignment and motion patterns that may be negatively impacting your nervous system. Importantly, it will also provide Dr. Bahri with valuable insights into the potential causes of your health issues.
If further imaging studies are deemed necessary, they can be conveniently conducted at our in-house x-ray facility.
Following the examination, if Dr. Bahri determines that he can offer assistance, he may proceed with treatment and schedule a follow-up appointment. However, if he determines that your case requires the expertise of another specialist, he will make the appropriate referral to ensure you receive the necessary care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chiropractic is a healing discipline firmly grounded in science. Although its main focus is the relationship between the skeleton (particularly the spine) and the nervous system that runs through it, chiropractic is concerned with the care of the entire body. Chiropractors use various diagnostic methods, including x-rays, to understand the state of your health, paying particular attention to your spine and bone structure. The profession specific terminology of “adjustment” involves the spine as one of the primary procedures of care.
The word chiropractic comes from a combination of the Greek words “chiro” and “praktikis”, meaning “done by hand”. “Treatment by hand” was an accepted form of therapy in ancient Greece. Hippocrates, who is regarded as the founder of medical inquiry, made the first recorded references to spinal manipulation. 1995 marked the 100th anniversary of the evolution of modern chiropractic. In recognition of this milestone, centennial celebrations were held across Canada and throughout the world. Canada Post issued a commemorative stamp in recognition of the centennial of the profession, and to honour its Canadian Found, Dr. Daniel David Palmer.
Chiropractic adjustments are safe and in fact a chiropractic treatment is one of the safest forms of treatment. Many studies have already proven the effectiveness and safety of treatments performed by a chiropractor. Serious adverse effects are extremely rare.
To find more information about chiropractic safety please click here for a link to the College of Chiropractors of British Columbia, the regulating body of chiropractic here in British Columbia.
When people think of the term “back pain” they usually equate this to an ache in the lower back. In reality, this is only one small part of your entire spine which is made up of bones, joints, nerves, muscles and ligaments that run from the base of your skull to the top of your pelvis and even down to your toes. These tissues supply much of the rest of the body and can therefore impact other areas including your shoulders, legs and head. For example: Sciatica is a common condition that is often confused as a leg problem but can actually originate in the spine. Even if you don’t have back pain, you could still have a spine problem and Chiropractors treat more than back pain.
From professional athletes to homemakers, engineers to electricians, youth to seniors, spine and related conditions are responsible for an estimated 1/3 of all daily health care/medicare office visits. Many people see a chiropractic doctor for common back, neck or joint problems, while others may seek relief from the discomfort caused by headaches,or other symptoms. Still others find that regular visits to their chiropractor supports their health promotion.
Regularly a dentist checks our teeth, an optometrist checks our eyes and a medical doctor checks our blood pressure and heart. Yet, we take the spine – a crucial component of our body – for granted. Call your family doctor of chiropractic today because checkups of your spine can help you maintain better health.