Frequently Asked Questions

Chiropractors are trained and educated as primary contact healthcare practitioners. They focus on neuromusculoskeletal diagnosis and treatment. The preparation for chiropractic practice is designed considering three major areas: basic training in the biological and health sciences, specialized training in the chiropractic discipline, and extensive clinical training. Becoming a chiropractor in Canada requires a minimum of 7 years of post-secondary education including no less than 4 years of full-time classroom and clinical instruction at an accredited institution.

During the adjustment of a joint there may be the release of a gas bubble between the joints that makes a popping sound. This sound is the same as when you “crack” your knuckles. The sound comes because of the change of pressure within the joint resulting in gas bubbles being released.

Traditional Chinese medicine explains that health is the result of a harmonious balance of the complementary extremes of yin and yan of the life force known as qi or chi. Qi is said to flow through meridians (pathways) in the human body. Through 350 acupuncture points in the body, these meridians and energy flows may be accessed. Illness is the consequence of an imbalance of the forces. If needles are inserted into these points with appropriate combinations, the energy flow can be brought back into proper balance.

In Western societies, acupuncture is defined using the concepts of neuroscience. Acupuncture points considered by Western practitioners are the places where nerves, muscles, and connective tissue can be stimulated. Acupuncture practitioners say that the stimulation increases blood flow as well as triggers the activity of our own body’s natural painkillers.

The most common concern for first-time acupuncture patients is that it will be painful. Once people feel the first needle is inserted that fear disappears! Most people say they don’t even feel the needle as it is inserted. Very rarely is there any pain associated with the acupuncture session, other than a mild pinch and feeling of tingling or sensations moving through the meridians, or a mild ache that lasts about 5 seconds. There is a sensation you may feel that is hard to describe but creates an almost immediate sense of calm and relaxation in the body. The patient will be asked to lie down, either face-up, face-down or on his/her side, depending on the condition being treated. The acupuncturist will use single-use disposable sterile needles. Once inserted, the needles will remain there for 20-45 minutes.

Acupuncture generally involves a course of treatments. Some people feel full relief after one session, while on average 3-6 sessions are necessary. Many people use acupuncture monthly as part of their preventative wellness care plan, once they experience the deep stress relieving balance which is unlike the feeling attained after any other treatment style. A visit to an acupuncturist will involve an exam and an assessment of the patient’s condition, the insertion of needles, and advice on self-care.