While chiropractors are best known as experts in diagnosing and treating back and neck pain, their expertise actually extends to any joint or muscle issue. Chiropractors have thorough training in assessing, diagnosing and treating virtually every joint in the body. Dr. Warner has also taken additional training is assessing and treating other injuries in addition to those to the back and neck.
It was recommended I see a chiropractor for my issue - but I don’t want my back or neck cracked.
No problem at all. I hear this a lot, and I completely understand. There are numerous options in regards to treatment, and options will always be discussed and the best treatment will be mutually agreed upon. In fact, the majority of treatment time is spent releasing tight muscles and there are numerous patients who never “get cracked”
I’m feeling ______ is that normal? Should I get that looked at?
In general - YES, get it looked at! Listen to your body closely, pain is our body’s way of telling us that something is wrong. These issues are always easier to deal with sooner rather than later.
- Sharp/shooting pain or tingling/numbness - indicates nerve irritation by tight muscles or joints that can be resolved with ART and mobilizations.
- Pain that is worse with deep breathing or coughing/sneezing – could indicate a rib, disc, or nerve problem.
- Pain that is aching/tight and worse at the end of the day – indicates an over-use injury that needs ART to help resolve the problem.
- Foot/ankle/knee pain with walking or exercise– could indicate improper foot mechanics or injury that can be helped with ART and orthotics
- Regular headaches – can be caused by tight muscles around the head and neck. These headaches can be resolved with ART.
- Back or neck pain – should always be evaluated, especially if it is sharp/catching in nature and worse with poor postures,
- Clicking/grinding/crunching – in joints like shoulders, knees and wrists usually indicate scar tissue build up that could lead to further injury.
Do I need a referral from my family doctor?
No, a referral is usually not necessary to see a chiropractor, or to have it covered by your insurance.
However if your family doctor has referred you, it is recommended that you follow their advice.
What kind of education do chiropractors have?
Chances are that Dr. Warner has received the same amount of education as your medical doctor has, just with a different focus of attention. During a medical doctors 4 years of schooling, they study a huge range of ailments to the numerous systems in the entire body, and a wide range of medications.
During a chiropractors 4 years of education, they focus on diagnosing and treating injuries related solely to the joints, muscles and nerves of the body. Like medical doctors, they are required to have received at least 3 years of university education before acceptance and then go through an additional 4 years of education and training.
Is chiropractic or acupuncture covered by OHIP or extended health insurance?
Chiropractic care and acupuncture treatments are covered by most health insurance programs, but not OHIP.
Most people have anywhere from $200-$1000 in chiropractic benefits per year, and some have an additional $200-$1000 in acupuncture benefits.
What are the fees and how long are appointments?
The initial assessment is comprehensive and 60 minutes in duration with a fee of $125. Follow up appointments are $65 for a 15 minute appointment and $90 for 30 minutes.