Chiropractic

One of the largest primary care professions in Ontario, Chiropractic offers a non-invasive, manual therapeutic approach to maintaining the structure and managing the function of the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractic takes a drug-free, manual approach to health care through the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and subsequent prevention of conditions relating to the neurological, muscular and skeletal systems of the body.

During a Chiropractic Assessment, one of our Chiropractors will complete a thorough examination in order to identify the root cause of a patient’s condition in order to completely alleviate the problem and prevent the recurrence of symptoms. Following an assessment, your Chiropractor will discuss relevant findings with you, provide a diagnosis, and work along with you to develop a plan of management that is customized to your needs.

Chiropractors practice a manual approach, providing treatment and preventive care for disorders related to the spine, pelvis, nervous system and joints. At Health Partners, our Chiropractors use a combination of approaches specific to the needs of each individual patient.

Therapeutic approaches offered by our team include:

• Joint manipulation and mobilization
• Soft-tissue release
• Cox Flexion-Distraction
• Active Release Techniques
• Graston Technique
• Kinesiotaping
• Activator Methods Technique
• Custom Orthotic Fitting
• Athletic Enhancement
• Thompson Technique
• Postural Advice
• Ergonomic Assessment
• Cold Laser Therapy

Chiropractic care may also be used to provide symptomatic relief for patients with chronic conditions. By treating the musculoskeletal elements of such disorders, chiropractic treatment has been shown to improve the general well-being of the patient.

There are many reasons to seek chiropractic care, including;

• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Headache
• Whiplash
• Strains and sprains
• Repetitive strain injury
• Work and sports injuries
• Motor Vehicle Accident Related Injuries
• Arthritis
• Limited range of motion in the back, shoulder, neck or limbs
• General health and well-being

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What is a Chiropractic Adjustment?

An adjustment is a highly skilled and precise movement usually applied by hand to a joint of the body. Adjustment involves a high velocity and low amplitude force applied to the joint to restore proper movement and optimize function.  The chiropractic adjustment also optimizes the body’s communication with the nervous system which can improve the function of muscles, joints, and organ systems.

When a joint is adjusted, a gas bubble escapes causing the popping noise you may have heard about.

Chiropractic adjustment techniques have been well researched. Complications are rare and side-effects are usually minor. Your chiropractor is well-trained to determine how to best manage your problem, and will work along with you to develop a method of treatment that you feel is safe and comfortable for you.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Chiropractic adjustment, our Chiropractors at Health Partners will be happy to discuss this with you and answer any questions you may have. We feel that it is important that our patients are well educated as to their condition and feel included in the design of our plan to manage your issue.

Chiropractic is often covered through many extended medical insurance plans. Check your coverage with your extended insurance provider as to what benefits may be available to you.

Chiropractic is a regulated health profession, recognized by statute in all Canadian provinces and American states. Almost 2 million patients in Ontario rely on chiropractic care every year to help them live healthy, active lives.

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Chiropractic and Pregnancy

For many, Chiropractic care is an important component of birth preparation during pregnancy. Women are recognizing the value of regular Chiropractic adjustments as they prepare for safer and easier birthing for themselves and their babies.

During pregnancy, the physical and hormonal changes that occur within a mother’s body are significant. As body weight increases, the center of gravity shifts outward and posture changes to compensate. Additionally, the ligament laxity that is necessary for the birth process leads to instability of the joints in the body including the spine and pelvis.

Regular Chiropractic visits can identify structural problems within the body, guide necessary interventions, and thereby restore function to allow for a more comfortable pregnancy and efficient childbirth.

The Webster Technique

The Webster Technique was discovered by Dr. Larry Webster in 1978, and was developed as a specific pelvic adjustment for pregnant women to help balance the pelvic muscles and ligaments in order to make the birthing process more manageable.

Performance of the Webster Technique involves analysis of the relationship of the bones of the pelvis, and correction of aberrant biomechanics through the use of a light force chiropractic adjustment of the sacrum. It also involves analysis and light contact to a supporting pelvic ligament. Both steps are intended to restore proper function in the pelvis and provide an optimal canal for childbirth.

It is important to understand that the Webster Technique is not to be misconstrued as the practice of obstetrics. The Webster Technique is a specific Chiropractic technique intended to establish neuro-biomechanical balance in the pelvis, and is well within the Chiropractor’s scope of practice. At no time does the Chiropractor attempt to change the position of the fetus. The Webster Technique facilitates easier and safer deliveries for both mother and baby.

With an increased awareness of the Webster Technique along with the increased use of midwives by mothers today, there is an increased demand for Chiropractors to undergo the training required to be certified to provide this technique to those who need it. At Health Partners, we are happy to offer the Webster Technique which is provided by a certified Doctor of Chiropractic.

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Kids and Chiropractic

It is common for parents to seek Chiropractic care for their children for a variety of reasons. Many common spinal problems seen in adults begin during birth or childhood. Natural birthing methods can cause mechanical stress to an infant’s spine and nervous system while they are still in the developing stages. Spinal and cranial misalignment can cause irritation to the nervous system which can lead to many common newborn health complaints such as colic, breathing problems, difficulty with nursing, disturbed sleep, allergic reactions and chronic infection.

Understanding that significant spinal trauma can sometimes occur at birth, many parents choose to have their newborns checked right away. During the first months of life, milestones such as learning to hold the head up, sitting, crawling and walking can all have an effect on spinal alignment; making them important stages to have a child checked by a Chiropractor.

Throughout childhood, common recreational activities such as running, skating, or riding a bike can cause small spinal misalignments that may lead to more serious problems if not addressed. A common reason for parents to seek care for a child is a trauma from an injury of some sort. The result on the joints of the spine or extremities may or may not result in immediate pain or symptoms. 

Proper spinal maintenance is an important factor in achieving optimal health. Regular Chiropractic care can identify areas of injury or restriction, restore the function of the tissue or joint, and help to prevent more significant dysfunction later in life.