Frequently Asked Questions

Chiropractic is a primary health care profession that focuses on the art and science of the diagnosis and treatment of problems within the neuromusculoskeletal system, which is anything to do with muscles,  bones and joints and how they all work together. A chiropractor helps to restore balance within this system, allowing your body to function better overall. 

Chiropractic is a healing discipline firmly grounded in science. Few other health care interventions have been assessed as extensively as chiropractic manipulation, both in terms of safety and effectiveness. There have been at least six formal government studies into chiropractic worldwide over the last 25 years and all have concluded that modern chiropractic care is safe, effective, cost-effective and have recommended public funding for chiropractic services. In addition, there have been countless scientific clinical studies assessing the appropriateness, effectiveness, and/or cost-effectiveness of spinal manipulation or chiropractic manipulation, most notably for low back pain. The Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHI) now offers research grants in partnership with the Canadian Chiropractic Association to chiropractors and other scientists for high quality, chiropractic research. 

A chiropractic adjustment is a specific, non-invasive thrust or impulse delivered by hand (called a Manual adjustment) or by an instrument called an Activator. It may be assisted by a rapid “drop” of a section of the chiropractic table. It is fast, safe, and not painful. The purpose of the adjustment is to restore proper mobility within your joints, and improve the neurological and muscular function in the area. 

Adjustments do not hurt. However, there is often inflammation in the area of joints that are not functioning properly, and pressure on these area of inflammation may cause some discomfort. This discomfort usually quickly subsides after proper mobility is restored. 

Yes. Many well-designed studies have found adjustments to be extremely safe. In contrast to many commonly used drugs and invasive surgery, chiropractic care is an extremely safe procedure with far fewer negative side effects. The most common complaint is a temporary soreness following a treatment session that usually subsides within 24 hours. However, a thorough examination will identify those for whom chiropractic adjustments may be unsuitable, and alternative treatment strategies would be recommended. 

Adjustment of a joint may result in release of a gas bubble between the joints that makes a popping sound – it’s exactly the same as when you “crack” your knuckles. It is not painful. It is caused by the change of pressure within the joint resulting in gas bubbles being released. 

In addition to standard manual chiropractic techniques, Dr. Stacey has received training in pediatric and prenatal care including Webster technique. She is also trained in ART® therapy, Orthotic therapy, and taping techniques. She offers chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and advice which includes specific exercises and recommendations to best maintain optimal health and function. 

First appointments are usually about one hour, and includes a health review, and examination of the key area(s), and treatment. A typical subsequent visit is either 15 or 30 minutes. This includes working on muscles in the key area of focus, and adjustments throughout the skeletal system as needed. It also may include discussion of exercises and health strategies to allow you to best achieve your overall health. 

No. There are many ways to adjust your joints and to restore your body to its optimal health. The method, or combination of methods will be selected to best suit your age, size, condition, and personal preferences. 

Yes, children may benefit from chiropractic care. Children are very physically active and experience many types of falls and blows from activities of daily living as well as from participating in sports. Injuries such as these may cause many symptoms including back and neck pain, stiffness, soreness or discomfort. Chiropractic care is always adapted to the individual patient. It is a highly skilled treatment, and in the case of children, very gentle.