Frequently Asked Questions
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Welcome to our FAQ page. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive at Chiroworks. If you cannot find the information you're looking for, feel free to contact us directly.
What conditions do you commonly see?
We commonly assess people experiencing:
Neck pain and stiffness
Low back pain
Sciatica and leg pain
Hip and buttock pain
Shoulder discomfort
Headaches associated with neck dysfunction
Joint and muscle-related aches
Sports and activity-related injuries
Postural and movement-related complaints
Every patient is individually assessed to determine the most appropriate management plan
Do I need a referral before making an appointment?
No. Most patients can book an appointment directly without a referral.
However, if you have recent imaging, medical reports, or referral letters, you are welcome to bring them along.
What happens during my first visit?
Your first consultation typically includes:
A discussion about your symptoms and medical history
Questions about your lifestyle, occupation, and activities
A physical examination
Orthopaedic or neurological testing when appropriate
An explanation of the findings
A discussion of suitable management options
Treatment recommendations are based on the clinical assessment and your individual presentation.
Do all patients require X-rays or MRI scans?
No.
Imaging is not necessary for every patient. X-rays or MRI scans are recommended only when clinically appropriate or when the findings are expected to assist with diagnosis or management.
A thorough history and physical examination remain essential components of assessment.
Is treatment painful?
Most patients tolerate care well. Some techniques may produce mild soreness afterwards, particularly if tissues have been irritated for some time, but significant discomfort is uncommon.
Your comfort and preferences are always taken into consideration.
How many visits will I need?
There is no universal answer.
The number of visits depends on factors such as:
Your diagnosis
Duration of symptoms
Severity of the condition
Individual response to care
Activity levels and lifestyle factors
Your progress is reviewed regularly, and recommendations are adjusted according to your clinical presentation.
Can I continue working or exercising?
In many cases, yes.
Depending on your condition, temporary activity modification may be recommended, but complete rest is not always necessary. Guidance is tailored to your individual situation.
Should I bring my previous X-rays or MRI scans?
Yes, if you have them available.
Previous imaging and medical reports can provide useful background information and may assist in understanding your condition alongside the clinical assessment.
Do I need an X-ray before chiropractic care?
Not necessarily. Many patients can be appropriately assessed through a detailed history and physical examination. Imaging is recommended when there is a clinical indication or when the results are expected to influence diagnosis, management, or referral decisions.
Why wasn't I asked to get an X-ray?
Because not every condition requires imaging. Current healthcare practice encourages using X-rays and other imaging studies when they are clinically appropriate rather than as a routine test for every patient.
Can an X-ray or MRI explain all of my pain?
No. Imaging provides structural information but cannot directly measure pain, muscle function, movement quality, or how your symptoms affect your daily activities. A complete assessment combines imaging findings with your history and physical examination.
Can two people have the same MRI but different symptoms?
Yes. It is common for individuals with similar imaging findings to experience very different levels of pain and disability. Likewise, some people with relatively minor imaging changes may have significant symptoms.
Why can repeat X-rays sometimes look different?
Small differences can occur due to patient positioning, posture, muscle guarding, weight distribution, image acquisition techniques, and normal measurement variability. Imaging findings should always be interpreted within the overall clinical context.
Does a straightened neck or loss of spinal curvature mean I have severe damage?
Not necessarily. Changes in spinal curvature do not automatically indicate serious injury or explain every symptom. They should be interpreted alongside your symptoms, examination findings, and overall clinical picture.
Are before-and-after X-rays always needed to monitor recovery?
No. Repeat imaging may be appropriate in certain situations, but many patients are better assessed by improvements in pain, function, mobility, strength, and quality of life rather than imaging changes alone.
What is more important than an X-ray?
Your symptoms, medical history, physical examination, neurological findings where relevant, daily function, and response to care are all important factors in developing an appropriate management plan.
Does Chiroworks treat MRI or X-ray findings?
No. We treat the individual. Imaging is used to complement clinical decision-making and should always be interpreted together with the patient's presentation and examination findings.
How is progress measured?
Recovery is not judged by imaging alone.
We consider factors such as:
Reduction in pain
Improvement in movement
Increased function
Better tolerance for daily activities
Progress toward your personal goals
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing that allows easy movement is recommended. Depending on the area being assessed, you may be asked to expose the relevant region while maintaining your privacy and comfort.
When should I seek urgent medical attention?
Seek prompt medical assessment if you experience:
Significant trauma
Sudden or progressive weakness
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Numbness around the saddle area
Fever associated with severe spinal pain
Unexplained weight loss with persistent pain
Severe or rapidly worsening neurological symptoms
These situations may require immediate medical evaluation.
Why choose Chiroworks?
Our philosophy is simple:
Honest assessments
Individualised care
Evidence-informed decision-making
Clear explanations
Focus on function and quality of life
Management plans tailored to the person—not just imaging findings
Our Commitment
At Chiroworks, we believe every patient deserves time, careful assessment, and open communication. We aim to help you understand your condition, discuss appropriate options, and work towards meaningful improvements in your health and daily function.
