A question that is often asked by prospective clients is “what does treatment at the clinic involve?”. This is a valid question as there are many misconceptions about chiropractic treatment, such that it may only involve spinal adjustments, are 5-minute consults, or exercises are rarely given. This insight will provide an overview of the treatment provided at the clinic and a rationale for why integrated and multi-modal treatments are associated with enhanced improvements in pain and disability compared to treatments that only utilise a single intervention.
Many tools in the tool bag
Treatment at DMC Health and Wellness is multi-modal – which means we incorporate several types of therapies during a single consult. We like to say we have many ‘tools in the tool bag’. This includes:
- Pain and symptom education: Provide re-assurance and develop self-management strategies.
- Massage: Relieve irritation to muscles and ligaments.
- Adjustments: Improve pain, posture, mobility, and strength.
- Dry needling: Calm and relax the body, as well as provide important pain relief.
- Exercise therapy: Strengthen the spine and support activities of daily living.
- Relaxation and stress-reduction techniques: Meditation and mindfulness practices to aid in reducing the distress associated with pain and injury.
Longer consults
When applying multiple therapies, more time is required. That is why at the clinic our standard consultation is 30 minutes long. This allows for enough time to discuss the presenting symptom, release soft tissues, apply dry needling and adjustments, as well as progress patients through their exercises.
Do we take x-rays?
Our previous insight on imaging and chiropractic we outlined a clear rationale for when imaging should and should not be taken. We do not have imagining equipment on site; however, we do have trusted relationships with multiple medical imaging practices in the area which regularly preform x-ray, CT, and MRI for our clients.
Evidence-based care
Evidence-based care is a term which often used in healthcare. This encompasses is a comprehensive view of treatment by considering three factors: 1) best available evidence, 2) practitioners experience, and 3) patients’ values. At the clinic we are consistently reviewing and reflecting on the treatments we provide, so our patients receive the most up-to-date and effective treatments for common musculoskeletal injuries, such as back pain, neck pain and shoulder pain.
Do we treat on the first visit?
Naturally, we want to help you as soon as possible, especially if you are in pain. However, the initial consult is primarly reserved for a thorough history and examination, this ensures appropriate and safe care is subsequently provided. If there is time remaining in the consult and care is indicated (i.e. we don’t need to refer for further investigations or to another medical practitioner) we will treat you on the first visit.
Do I have to pay for all the treatments up front?
Unlike other practices, we do not require an upfront payment for all services. The treatment is paid for at the end of the consult and we have a HICAPS terminal available for you to claim through your health fund.
For more information regarding what individualised treatment may look like for you, get in contact with the clinic today.
About the Authors
David McNaughton is a clinician and a researcher. He is the director and principal chiropractor at DMC Health & Wellness. He has an extensive background in the diagnosis and management of chronic pain. In addition to his clinical studies, David holds a Master’s of Research and PhD in Psychology. He regularly publishes his research in peer reviewed medical and psychology journals. David has taught both undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Chiropractic and Psychology at Macquarie University.
Isaac completed a Bachelor of Chiropractic Science and Master of Chiropractic at Macquarie University, and is currently enrolled in a Master of Research. His research aims to understand the clinical decisions health practitioners make about diagnostic imaging. His clinical interests include spinal pain (neck and back) and sporting injuries. Regardless of the condition, his goal as a chiropractor is to work collaboratively with patients.
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