Your first appointment is primarily an assessment. Your chiropractor will take a detailed history, discuss your concerns and goals, and perform an appropriate physical examination. Depending on your presentation, this may include orthopaedic, neurological, functional and chiropractic assessment procedures. The purpose is to understand your presentation and determine the most appropriate next step.
This depends on your individual presentation.
Where clinically appropriate, an adjustment or other manual procedure may be performed as part of the initial assessment process. This is not automatically performed on every patient, and you will have an opportunity to discuss the proposed procedure and give consent before it is performed.
Your chiropractor will discuss the findings from your initial assessment and any relevant investigations. The clinical findings, what they mean in relation to your symptoms and how your body is functioning will be explained as well as what management options may be appropriate. If ongoing chiropractic care is recommended, the proposed frequency and expected duration of care will be discussed with you. You then decide whether you wish to proceed. To find out more click here.
There isn’t one number that is appropriate for everyone. The recommended frequency and duration of care depends on your individual presentation, clinical findings, goals and response to treatment. At Schäfer Chiropractic and Associates, your chiropractor commonly conducts a formal review after an initial phase of care, but the number and frequency of treatments should remain based on your individual clinical needs.
Many musculoskeletal problems do not change immediately. The aim of care involves more than simply providing short-term symptom relief. Depending on the problem, treatment may be directed towards improving movement, reducing symptoms, restoring function and helping you return to your normal activities. Your response to care is monitored throughout treatment, and your management can be changed when clinically appropriate.
In South Africa, chiropractors are regulated by the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA). Members of the public can check whether a practitioner is registered with the Council. AHPCSA specifically advises members of the public to consult registered practitioners and provides access to practitioner registers.
This depends entirely on your medical scheme and your specific plan. AHPCSA explicitly states that a practice number does not guarantee reimbursement and that medical schemes have their own reimbursement rules. Schäfer Chiropractic and Associates is a cash practice.
There are circumstances where radiographic information can provide clinically relevant information. If imaging is recommended, your chiropractor will explain why it is being considered and what information it may provide.
Yes, however as with healthcare procedures generally, chiropractic treatment is not completely without risk. Further information will be provided regarding relevant material risks and alternatives with you before a procedure where appropriate.
They may recommend referral when your presentation indicates that another healthcare professional is better placed to assess or manage your condition or when further investigation is required.
A chiropractor is a registered healthcare professional who specialises in the assessment and management of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system and their effects on the nervous system and general health. Chiropractic is a regulated profession in South Africa under the Allied Health Professions Act and is overseen by the AHPCSA.
No. Chiropractors assess the musculoskeletal system more broadly. Patients may consult for problems involving the spine, joints and movement, including neck and back complaints, sporting or activity-related problems and other musculoskeletal presentations. Whether chiropractic care is appropriate depends on your individual history and examination.
No, you can make an appointment directly with a chiropractor. However, individual medical schemes may have their own requirements regarding referrals or reimbursement, so you should check with your medical scheme if you intend to claim.
You are free to decide whether you wish to proceed with any recommended care.
You may ask questions, seek another opinion or decline a proposed investigation or treatment.
Chiropractic procedures should be selected according to the individual patient and their clinical circumstances. Some techniques may produce temporary soreness, tenderness or a change in symptoms afterwards. If you experience anything unexpected or concerning following treatment, you should contact the practice and discuss it with your chiropractor.
Where clinically appropriate and with the appropriate permissions/consent, healthcare professionals can communicate and collaborate regarding a patient’s care.
Tell us. You don’t have to be comfortable with chiropractic techniques before you arrive. Your chiropractor can explain what is being proposed, answer your questions and discuss alternatives where appropriate.
That’s okay. An audible joint sound isn’t the objective of chiropractic care. Different techniques can be considered depending on your presentation and what is clinically appropriate.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows your chiropractor to assess the relevant area and movement. Depending on your presentation, you may be asked to remove or adjust certain items of clothing so that an appropriate examination can be performed.
Tell your chiropractor exactly what you’re experiencing. The purpose of the initial consultation is not simply to treat symptoms. It is also to determine whether your presentation is appropriate for chiropractic care and whether further investigation or referral is required.
Start your journey back to health with a new patient appointment. To book this consultation please contact the practice, or click below to make an appointment online.
