Chiropractic Questions and Answers
Can anyone call themselves a chiropractor?
No. In common with medical practitioners and dentists, the chiropractic profession is regulated by law. The Chiropractic Act 1994 provides statutory regulation for the profession and the title ‘chiropractor’ is protected under this legislation. The statutory regulator is the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) and it is illegal to practise as a chiropractor without first being registered with the GCC.
How much training do chiropractors have?
Chiropractors in the UK train for a minimum of 4 years full-time, obtaining a chiropractic degree of honors level or above. Dr Tracy Dixon DC CST qualified from the Anglo-European College of Chiropractic in 1998 after completing a 5-year Masters Degree. To meet the criteria for registration, each year chiropractors must complete a minimum of 30-hours of continuing professional development.
Do I need to be referred by my GP to see a chiropractor?
No. Chiropractic is a primary contact health profession, in other words, you do not need to be referred by your GP or any other health professional to see a chiropractor; the majority of patients refer themselves, i.e. self-referral.
How much will my treatment cost?
At Talako Therapies, our aim is to provide excellence in chiropractic care, where we go that extra mile for your health and wellbeing. The time and care taken during our initial consultation and follow-up treatments reflect this, as we like to spend longer than most chiropractors do with both our initial and follow-up treatments (double the average time in fact for follow-up treatments but definitely not double the price!). For current prices, please contact us here.
Where can I park when I come to Talako Therapies?
It is extremely important that people in physical discomfort can park easily and right outside the door. There is ample off-road parking available at Talako Therapies so you will not need to leave home an extra 15 minutes earlier just to ensure you can find somewhere to park!
How many treatments will it take to get better?
Every patient is different and so it is impossible to give an exact number. At Talako Therapies, our patients report that, on average, they feel 68% improved after just 3 visits! However, this will vary, depending on a number of factors, such as your age, your lifestyle, the severity of your problem, how long you have had it for, previous injuries, and whether you keep to the recommendations. We aim to help you achieve your goal, whether that is just to become pain-free, improve your posture, improve your lifestyle, or improve your quality of life, in as short a time as possible, with the least amount of expense. We strive to work with you by providing many ways in which you can help yourself.
Are chiropractors qualified to take and read X-rays?
Yes. Chiropractors are qualified to take and read X-rays so we are one of the few professions that are trained to do this. At Talako Therapies, we will only recommend that an X-ray is taken if there is a valid clinical reason for doing so. Like all health professionals, chiropractors must comply with the legislation that governs the use of X-rays – the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2000. Please note, McTimoney Chiropractors are not qualified to take or read x-rays (see below).
Can people with arthritis receive chiropractic care?
Absolutely. Patients who suffer from various forms of arthritis may get significant results from chiropractic. Results may vary, as with all patients, but by keeping the joints moving freely, particularly those of the spine (this is one of the main aims of chiropractic treatment), then the stiffness and pain associated with some types of arthritis can be minimised. The type of treatment method used will be selected to suit every individual case, and patients of all ages can benefit…… Tracy’s eldest patient to date was 98 years young when they first sought her help and expertise!
Can I get chiropractic treatment through my private medical insurance?
Yes, chiropractic treatment is covered by all major insurance companies. You will need to check your policy as some require that you are referred by your GP. This will usually be done by requesting a letter from your GP.
When was chiropractic first established?
Modern chiropractic dates back to 1895 when Canadian Daniel David Palmer performed the first chiropractic adjustment; he went on to found The Palmer School of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa in 1897. The 20th century saw the growth and development of the profession worldwide, gaining recognition and respect for the place it has taken in the primary care environment.
Are there different types of chiropractic?
Yes, there is a type of chiropractic known as the McTimoney Method. This is a much younger form of chiropractic treatment that was developed in the 1950’s by John McTimoney. The treatment techniques themselves are very different and McTimoney chiropractors also treat animals. Conditions that may be helped are the same as those of mainstream chiropractic, but McTimoney chiropractors are not qualified to take or read X-rays. McTimoney chiropractors must also be registered with the General Chiropractic Council. Dr Tracy Dixon DC CST practices mainstream chiropractic.
