Informed Consent
Chiropractic treatment, including spinal manipulation or adjusting, has been shown to be an effective treatment for spinal pain, headaches, musculoskeletal injuries or the limbs and other nervous system related symptoms. The risk of injuries or complications following chiropractic treatment is often lower than those associated with many medical and other treatments.
The aim of the treatment is always to improve the patient’s health and minimise any potential risks. Before treatment begins you will complete a health history questionnaire and undergo a thorough case history and physical exam. You will have regular reviews along the way and have the opportunity to ask questions and give feedback regarding your treatment.
Please read the following risks associated with treatment:
In a minority of cases the treatment may not be successful and your condition doesn’t change. Your chiropractor would discuss other suitable treatment options with you and make any necessary referrals.
Occasionally the treatment may aggravate your condition, this is usually mild and temporary as your body adapts to the changes made by the adjustment.
Sprains and strains to the muscles and ligaments can occur but this is uncommon and typically not serious.
In the case of manipulation or adjustments to the neck, there have been reported, some very rare cases of injury to the carotid and vertebral artery which can result in dizziness, transient ischemic attack or stroke. These are extremely rare and the risk has been reported to be from 1 in 1,000,000 to 1 in 5,000,000 patients with neck pain/headaches who undergo spinal manipulation.
Every attempt is made to screen these patients who are considered high risk and alternative technique are provided. If you do have such identifiable risks it may be necessary to refer you for appropriate tests.
For Babies and Children:
Chiropractic care for babies and children has been shown to be gentle, effective and safe. The low force techniques used by your paediatric trained chiropractor, are suited to the child’s developing joints and aimed at improving the function of their nervous system. You can read more about the benefits of chiropractic care for children in our ‘What we do’ section.
If you have any questions or concerns please talk to your chiropractor at your appointment or email us and we will happily discuss them with you. We want you to feel comfortable and trust that you are in great hands with us.