Frequently Asked Questions
A quick guide to common chiropractic questions
What is a chiropractic adjustment?
The Chiropractic adjustment is a recognised and effective form of manipulative therapy. It is a specific and controlled pressure applied to a joint to restore lost motion and is not painful.
Adjustments provide a means for drug free relief of symptoms and are used where necessary to treat the cause of a symptom.
Based on your diagnosis, your practitioner will determine if you require a stretching or strengthening programme to help you to achieve maximal results from your body.
What is that crack sound?
The “crack” sound is the sound of gas being release from a joint.
Fluid is present in most of our joints and its job is to create lubrication to aid movement. When a joint is not moving an adjustment can be applied to restore motion. When the joint is moved, the joint capsule is stretched and the fluid within the capsule is turned to gas which forms bubbles and a “crack” like sound is heard.
How many chiropractic sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies from person to person. Many patients notice improvement within the first 3–4 visits, while others benefit from a longer treatment plan depending on their condition, health history and goals. Your chiropractor will outline a personalised plan at your first appointment.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
You don’t need a referral if you’re seeking chiropractic care. You can book directly with Bay Chiropractic for a wide range of musculoskeletal concerns.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Comfortable clothing is ideal, such as activewear or loose-fitting clothes. Anything that allows easy movement helps us assess your posture and mobility accurately.
Can chiropractic help with posture?
Yes. Chiropractic care can help improve posture by restoring joint mobility, reducing muscle tension and providing guidance on ergonomics, movement and strengthening exercises.
Can chiropractic help headaches?
Chiropractic treatment may help reduce certain types of headaches — particularly those related to neck tension, posture or restricted joint movement.
Is chiropractic safe for newborns and babies?
Yes. Paediatric chiropractic uses very gentle pressure, tailored specifically to infants and young children. Techniques are slow, light and always modified for your child’s age and comfort.
Is the treatment for a child the same as for an adult?
No. When a baby is checked extremely gentle pressure is applied to joints until optimal movement is restored. Some babies even sleep through the whole treatment.
How do chiropractic adjustments help during pregnancy?
Pregnancy chiropractic may help ease lower back pain, pelvic discomfort, sciatica and rib or mid-back tightness by improving joint mobility and supporting posture as your body changes.
Can I continue chiropractic care into my third trimester?
Yes. Many women find treatment in the third trimester helpful for easing discomfort and improving mobility. All techniques are adapted for comfort and safety as pregnancy progresses.
How does chiropractic improve sports performance?
To get the best out of your body it requires the best training, nutrition, mental preparation and movement.
Sports training can cause your body to produce tough, dense scar tissue. As scar tissue builds up, muscles become shorter and weaker and joints move less. This can cause reduced range of motion, loss of strength, and pain. When muscles and joints can move without restriction in a full range of motion, power, speed and agility is maximised.
Find out more about sports chiropractic here.
What sports injuries do you treat?
We commonly treat: sprains, strains, shoulder impingement, tennis/golfer’s elbow, lower back injuries, knee pain, hip and groin injuries, sciatica, and postural issues related to sport or training load.
How does massage complement chiropractic care?
Massage helps reduce muscle tension, increase flexibility, improve circulation and support faster recovery. When combined with chiropractic, it can enhance overall mobility and long-term results.
What can acupuncture help with?
Acupuncture may assist with muscle tension, stress, headaches, chronic pain, poor sleep and general wellbeing. It can also complement chiropractic treatment for a more integrated approach.
How do I become a patient?
Most patients come via existing patient recommendation or referral from their general practitioner or specialist, though it is not mandatory
Appointments can be made via telephone on 02 9908 8699, and our receptionists will guide you through the process. If you phone outside of consultation hours (see clinic hours of operation), then please leave a message with your name and telephone number and our staff will contact you as soon as they return.