Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
I’m scared. Will you crack my neck?
The chiropractic technique we use allows your body to connect to and release deep tensions naturally. There is no harsh crack. We find that this gentle form of chiropractic teaches the nervous system how to release it’s own tensions and a large force is not required when you know the exact right spot.
Will I need x-rays?
X-rays are a very useful tool for your chiropractor to see what is happening inside your body. Often x-rays are not required for clients but can sometimes give valuable extra information in regards to you and your case. Spinal x-rays ordered by a chiropractor are claimable through Medicare.
Do you see children?
You will find babies and children regularly visit us. Children have spines and nervous systems that are exposed to lots of movement while playing, sitting at school and carrying a backpack. All of these activities can cause tension and stress in a growing and developing child.
Dr Nicola loves working with children and was a primary school science educator before becoming a chiropractor. She understands just how important a strong, healthy nervous system is for people of all ages! We have toys and games to entertain the kids. Because the technique we use is so gentle it is appropriate for babies and children. Children respond well to chiropractic care and often parents know when it’s time to visit because the kids say “Mum, we haven’t seen Dr Nicola in a while”
I have osteoporosis, can I see a chiropractor?
All people are unique and you need to find the right care for you and your specific needs. The light touch, breath and movement we use to assist our clients in releasing tension and stress is very suitable to people with bone density issues.
Is it OK to see a chiropractor if I’m pregnant?
Yes! We love taking care of women during pregnancy and beyond (more information). Many pregnant mothers, recently birthed mums and babies receive chiropractic care. A recent (2016) study demonstrated that pregnant women who received chiropractic care had a greater ability to relax their pelvic floor muscles at rest. This relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles may mean that chiropractic care could be of benefit to pregnant women, as it may help them have a natural vaginal delivery.
We love seeing all types of clients in the practice. Mothers often find that chiropractic care may help alleviate back pain, improve sleep quality and prepare the body for childbirth. We are always gentle with clients and take particular care with pregnant mothers.
Can I claim chiropractic through my private health insurance?
Yes – chiropractic care is covered under most private health policies with Extras. Chiropractic is a registered and highly regulated health profession in Australia. Check with your insurer to see if chiropractic is part of your extras as each provider and their rebate is different.
Can I claim chiropractic under Medicare?
Most people cannot claim chiropractic through Medicare as it is only reserved for people with chronic pain conditions. To obtain 5 chiropractic visits subsidised through Medicare, you must see a GP for Chronic Pain Management. If this is you, see how we can help (more information). If you’re not in chronic pain – that’s wonderful – you’re not eligible and we wouldn’t wish it on you
What’s the Crack?
Although Network care is gentle and doesn’t involve large forces into your spine or any cracking, it’s a common question. What is that crack? Is it good or bad? Am I breaking? Have you ever heard a cracking, clicking or popping sound coming from inside your joints? This noise is called a cavitation and is actually the result of a gas bubble forming inside a joint as it is stretched. The fluid inside your joint (synovial fluid) must expand to take up the extra space inside the stretch joint and when this happens quickly it expands into a gas.
A scientific study in 2015 visualised a knuckle joint popping under MRI and observed the gas forming in the joint [Kawchuk et al, 2015]. You can watch a video of it happening here. So, while it may feel satisfying or scary to ‘crack’ a joint, this formation of gas inside your joint seems to be no more significant than any other release of gas from your body.
Is Network Chiropractic available in Melbourne?
The specific and gentle technique used at Evolve Chiropractic is known as Network Spinal Analysis, NSA or Network care. It was developed over 30 years ago by chiropractor Dr Donny Epstein. Since then, Network care has become renowned around the world, including Australia and is known for it’s gentle approach and for taking care of star clients such as Tony Robbins. Unlike conventional chiropractic care, we want to see clients improve beyond their original symptoms to a life that’s beyond their expectations, with no harsh crack.
Melbourne was the first city in Australia to offer Network Chiropractic care and it’s important to pick the right chiropractor for you as you will work closely with them to achieve your health care goals. You may want to choose the Chiropractor based on personality or location, they may come recommended from friends or they may be the chiropractor who takes the time to listen and explain the process. No matter how you chose, you’re in great hands as all chiropractic doctors are University trained.