Chiropractic (meaning done by hand) is a regulated primary health care profession. It addresses health issues and maintenance of health via non-invasive techniques (i.e. without the use of drugs and surgery). Chiropractic is one of the most widely used manual therapies and is the largest drug free health care profession. With the underlying belief that the body is self-healing and self-regulating and has the ability to recover from injury and maintain health, chiropractors administer treatment to assist in the body’s natural healing process.

No, although we do take a lot of referrals from GPs, as primary practitioners you are able to self refer to us.

Yes you are able to take painkillers or anti inflammatories as normal prior to your treatment. Over the counter medications are often not strong enough to mask severe problems. If you are concerned your pain is too great to tolerate treatment please phone us for advice on how best to get your pain under control so that we can then begin treatment as soon as possible for you.

Yes, we are covered by all private medical insurance companies. We are able to bill the larger insurers directly once your excess has been paid.

At present only Amy O’Connor and Kaye Helsen are able to treat patients who are insured by BUPA. You will often need to contact your GP for a referral in order to be given a claims number that your practitioner will need. However, every insurance company has a different protocol so please contact them prior to starting your treatment.

We will need to know any previous surgery, illness, your past medical records as well as your current state of health including any medication you are taking. Any previous scans, X-rays, letters or investigations are always helpful. If you are intending to claim for treatment using private health insurance it is useful to bring the details with you, such as membership number and claims number.

Please wear loose, comfortable clothing that can allow us access to the body part being treated if necessary. We always have gowns available if you need/require one..

We always aim to treat on the first visit, however occasionally it is not appropriate. For instance if we need further scans or X-rays, or feel that you would benefit from a second opinion.

This a question we are frequently asked! The main differences between the professions is historical, as over the years times have changed and today there are far more similarities than differences. The differences are in the personal treatment style of the practitioner, not the profession itself. Both will use their hands to treat disorders of the bones, muscles and joints. Treatment techniques may include joint mobilizations & manipulations, massage, active release and prescriptive exercises.

Adjustments work to correct vertebral restrictions and misalignments . They are a specific, safe and affected method of restoring normal motion and alignment to the spine. Through introducing movement to the effected spinal joints the function of local spinal tissues improves as does the function of the nervous system. This results in increased health, vitality and healing potential. Often you may hear a small popping noise when an adjustment is given - this is only the release of air within the joint.