Is Chiropractic Right for Your Whole Family?

One of the most common questions people ask before making an appointment is whether chiropractic is only for adults with serious back injuries. The short answer is no. Peel Chiropractic has been looking after Mandurah families for over 20 years, and the clinic welcomes everyone from newborns through to seniors, including expecting mums. If you are searching for a family chiropractor near Halls Head, it helps to know what chiropractic involves and which problems it is generally used for, so you can decide whether it suits your household. Your GP or another health professional is a good first stop for any health concern, and this article is general information only.

What does family chiropractic care actually cover?

Family chiropractic means the same assessment and hands on care is adapted to suit different ages and bodies. The focus stays on the musculoskeletal system: the spine, joints, muscles and the nerves that run through them. The clinic treats problems of the neck, mid back and low back, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, ankles and feet. That includes lower back pain, neck pain, certain types of headaches, disc herniations, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, jaw problems and muscle strains. It is a broad scope, which is why one clinic can be a practical choice for several members of a household. You can read more about what chiropractic care involves at Peel Chiropractic.

Chiropractic is not a substitute for medical care of organ, hormonal or immune conditions. If something falls outside the musculoskeletal system, your GP remains the right first call.

Which family members can see a chiropractor?

Peel Chiropractic welcomes newborns through to seniors. Different life stages bring different musculoskeletal loads. A school age child carrying a heavy backpack, a teenager sitting for long stretches of study, a working adult managing a recurring shoulder strain, and a retiree with persistent knee stiffness all have different needs, but the same starting point applies: a history and examination before any care is planned.

Pregnancy adds extra demand on the pelvis and lower back. If you are pregnant, speak with your GP or midwife first, and ask the clinic directly whether care suits your situation.

What techniques does the clinic use, and does it have to involve cracking?

No, adjustment does not have to involve audible joint sounds. Peel Chiropractic names Arthrostim instrument adjusting, which involves no popping sound, among its techniques, and that can suit nervous first timers or people who prefer a gentler approach. The other named techniques include Diversified adjusting, Drop Table (Thompson) technique, SOT blocking, Flexion Distraction and Quantum Neurology, as well as prescribed rehabilitation exercises and stretches.

Having several techniques available matters for a family clinic, because each patient is different. Age, size and the individual problem are all factors in which technique is chosen, and the examination is where that is worked out rather than applying the same method to everyone.

Does chiropractic help with headaches and posture, or just back pain?

It is not only for back pain, but the clinic addresses certain types of headaches, not all headaches. In general, the headaches assessed in a chiropractic examination are those linked to the joints and muscles of the neck. Posture related strain across the mid back and neck is also a common reason people seek care, particularly those who spend long hours at a desk or driving.

If you have new, severe or unusual headaches, ruling out other causes with your GP first is the right approach. Chiropractic and medical care are not mutually exclusive, and nobody should stop prescribed treatment without talking to their doctor.

How does care progress after the first visit?

The clinic describes three stages of care: initial intensive care, where the primary goal is symptom or pain relief, rehabilitative care, and wellness care. Some people look strictly for symptom relief, while others are interested in long term strategies to maintain good health, so not everyone will use all three stages. How long you choose to continue care is always up to you.

Alongside hands on care, the techniques the clinic names include prescribed rehabilitation exercises and stretches, which give you something to work on between visits. Recovery time varies from person to person, so no one can promise how quickly you will feel better.

What happens at a first appointment at Peel Chiropractic?

Arrive 15 minutes early to complete paperwork. The initial appointment runs for about 45 minutes and covers a history, a neurological examination and a chiropractic examination. Bring any X-rays, medical information and referrals you have. If you hold a DVA, Medicare, private health, concession or pensioner card, bring that too. X-rays are only arranged if warranted, so they are not a routine requirement for every patient.

The second visit is a report of findings. That two appointment structure gives you time to take in the information and ask questions before deciding on next steps.

Getting to the clinic

The clinic is at 22 Peel Street, Mandurah, in the centre of town and a short walk from the Mandurah Foreshore. There is onsite parking, a public bus stop at the front door, and the clinic is wheelchair accessible. Phone (08) 9535 1600 or email admin@peelchiropractic.com.au to get in touch. Opening hours change from time to time, so please visit the contact page for current hours before you come in.

Frequently asked questions

Is chiropractic suitable for children?

The clinic welcomes patients from newborns upwards. Whatever the age, care starts with a history and examination before any treatment begins. As with any healthcare decision for your child, talk through your specific concerns with your GP and at the first appointment.

Can I bring the whole family to the same clinic, or do I need separate specialists?

Peel Chiropractic describes itself as an experienced family chiropractic clinic, and new patients are always welcome. Whether you are booking for a child, a parent or yourself, contact the clinic directly to discuss your situation.

Does chiropractic care involve ongoing visits, or can I come in just for a specific problem?

Either can happen. Some people come in for a single problem such as a muscle strain, while others choose ongoing wellness care. You do not always have to be in pain to consult a chiropractor, and the decision about how long to continue is yours.

Can expecting mums see a chiropractor?

Expecting mums are welcome at the clinic. Ask the clinic directly before booking, and talk it over with your midwife or obstetrician as well. Pregnancy brings musculoskeletal changes, particularly in the pelvis and lower back, and whether chiropractic care suits you is a question for the health professionals looking after you.