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Chiropractic care is an alternative medicine approach focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing neuro-musculoskeletal disorders, with a particular emphasis on the spine. It focuses on the body's nerves, muscles, bones and joints. This discipline offers chiropractic adjustments to help the body restore and maintain optimal health and function. These adjustments include therapeutic maneuvers performed by the chiropractor on both the spine and limbs.

Chiropractors hold an undergraduate doctorate, as well as a Canadian and provincial license to practice issued by the New Brunswick Chiropractors' Association.

Chiropractic care is an alternative medicine approach focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing neuro-musculoskeletal disorders, with a particular emphasis on the spine. Here's what it typically involves:

• Comprehensive Evaluation: The chiropractor conducts a thorough assessment of health, focusing on the spine, joints, and nervous system to identify imbalances.
• Chiropractic Adjustments: The primary technique used, manual or instrument-assisted adjustments correct vertebral misalignments and restore joint function.
• Manipulations and Mobilizations: Techniques to improve joint mobility and relieve muscle tension.
• Myofascial Therapies: Techniques to release muscle and fascial tension, the connective tissue that links all structures of the body, improving range of motion and pain intensity.
• Health Advice: Chiropractors provide advice on posture, exercises, and ergonomics to prevent injuries and maintain health.
• Holistic Treatment: A comprehensive approach to health, aiming to address the underlying cause of issues rather than just symptoms.
• Versatile Treatment: In addition to back and neck problems, chiropractors treat headaches, joint pain, sports injuries, etc.
• Education and Prevention: Patients are educated on overall health, improving performance, and ways to prevent long-term injuries.

Chiropractic care aims to restore and maintain overall health by promoting optimal functioning of the nervous system and joints.

Evaluate, Diagnose, Treat and Teach.

The chiropractor:

• Conducts a comprehensive neuromusculoskeletal assessment of the patient, including clinical and radiological examinations if necessary.
• Establishes a precise neuromusculoskeletal diagnosis for the patient.
• Develops and implements chiropractic interventions within an integrated care plan or as part of a multidisciplinary approach.
• Provides recommendations to the patient to support treatment and as preventive measures.

Chiropractors: Skilled Professionals, Not Quacks

The perception of chiropractic care has evolved significantly over the past few decades. Gone are the days when chiropractors were dismissed as 'back crackers' or 'quacks.'

The evolution of chiropractic

This shift is due to the rigorous educational standards for chiropractors today, a growing body of research supporting the efficacy and safety of chiropractic care, and the high public demand for these services.

Advanced Chiropractic Education

In Canada, aspiring chiropractors have two primary educational paths:

• Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) in Toronto
• Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR) in Quebec

Your Medispine chiropractor

studied in Quebec, completing a 5-year Doctorate program in chiropractic at UQTR.

Comprehensive Curriculum

The UQTR chiropractic program includes 4,969 hours of coursework, totaling 245 credits. The comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, including:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Neurology
• Diagnostic procedures
• Differential diagnosis
• Biochemistry
• Embryology
• Radiology
• Immunology
• Microbiology
• Pathology
• Nutrition
• Chiropractic principles and techniques
• Chiropractic professional practice
• Clinical sciences
• And much more

From the first year of training, students take part in observation and intervention internships. Training is followed by an 18-month clinical internship under the direct supervision of experienced chiropractors.

Training is followed by an 18-month clinical internship under the direct supervision of experienced chiropractors.

After earning a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, candidates must pass the national exams administered by the Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board (CCEB) and the New Brunswick Chiropractors Association (NBCA) legislation and ethics exam.

International Standards This organization ensures that chiropractic education programs worldwide meet rigorous standards.

Qualified Chiropractic Doctors

So, yes, your chiropractors are indeed chiropractic doctors with education and training far beyond the scope of mere bone setters. Their advanced education and commitment to professional excellence ensure they provide safe, effective, and comprehensive care.

Chiropractors commonly treat conditions such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, postural issues, joint problems in the arms or legs, and other neuromusculoskeletal issues. They may also address certain non-musculoskeletal conditions by improving overall spinal health.

What is a vertebral subluxation complex?

Vertebral Subluxation Complex occurs when one or more vertebrae are misaligned, resulting in altered joint motion and nerve irritation. This interference can disrupt communication throughout the nervous system, including organ function. If left unchecked, subluxations can deteriorate the body's natural state, leading to a decline in health, sickness, and disease.

Early Detection and Prevention

Unfortunately, subluxations often go undetected in their early stages. By the time pain and symptoms appear, the problem may have been present for months or even years. The good news is that routine chiropractic care can help prevent these subluxations.

Note: Subluxations can also occur in other parts and joints of the body.

Causes of Subluxations

Subluxations are caused by three main types of stressors that your body cannot adapt to:

Physical Stressors:

• Nerve irritation can occur during the birth process, even with assisted deliveries and straightforward vaginal births.
• Other physical causes include accidents, poor posture, repetitive movements, and contact sports.

Chemical Stressors:

• Chemical stress from fast food, air pollution, bacterial overgrowth, infections, mold, heavy metal intoxication, and poor sleep can disrupt biochemical reactions in the body.
• These disruptions affect the nervous system and can lead to subluxations.
  
  

Emotional Stressors:

• Chronic emotional stress can cause nerve irritation. Sustained stress leads to physiological changes such as increased blood pressure, heart rate, and blood glucose levels.
• Over time, these changes tax the body's adaptability and lead to physiological breakdowns.

Benefits of Regular Chiropractic Care

Regular chiropractic care is a proactive way to reduce the risk of vertebral subluxation, increase resistance to stress, and strengthen overall well-being. Chiropractors are trained to detect subluxations and use chiropractic adjustments to help the body heal. When the communication between the brain and body is improved and cleared of subluxations, the body returns to homeostasis.

A chiropractic adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation, is a tool used by chiropractors to restore joint movement and optimize function. It involves a chiropractor using their hands or a small instrument to apply a controlled, sudden force to a joint. The goal is to activate mechanoreceptors on the skin, muscles, ligaments and joints. Adjustments can be made to the spine and limbs.

The goal is to enable the body to reduce its stress levels so that it can express its full potential. Through adjustment, the chiropractor optimizes the body's ability to heal itself (homeostasis).

In addition to adjustment, the chiropractor may use different therapeutic tools or techniques during treatment. These techniques have been acquired through five (5) years of university training and many hours of continuing education; so that you receive professional treatments based on the very latest scientific advances.

The cracking sound you hear during spinal manipulation is the result of a technique called "chiropractic adjustment". When a chiropractor performs an adjustment, he applies a controlled, precise force to a joint, usually in the spinal column. This rapid, controlled force can cause a temporary separation of the joint surfaces, resulting in reduced pressure inside the joint. This reduction in pressure can create a bubble of gas, mainly carbon dioxide, which quickly forms in the synovial fluid surrounding the joint.

However, sound is not the main purpose of the adjustment. The objective is to improve joint mobility, reduce pain and promote proper functioning of the neuro-musculo-skeletal system. Not all chiropractic techniques produce this crunch, and chiropractors tailor their approaches to the needs of each patient.

Everyone can benefit from chiropractic care. Whether as a preventive or curative measure, there's no age limit for consultation. Babies can be cared for by a chiropractor from birth and throughout their development. Pregnant women can benefit from monitoring during pregnancy, the elderly can maintain their activity levels thanks to treatment plans adapted to their situation, and workers can prevent injuries by improving their posture and workstation.

No matter when or why you choose to consult, chiropractors will be at your side to improve your overall well-being and enhance your quality of life.

No, you do not need a referral to see a chiropractor. Chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals and can see you without a medical doctor's referral. Their services are also covered by most private health insurance plans.

STEP 1 - IN PREPARATION FOR THE FIRST APPOINTMENT

When you first meet with your chiropractor, you will need to complete forms so we can open your file. These forms can be completed at home, online or directly at the clinic. If you prefer to complete them on site, it will be important to arrive at least 20 minutes before your appointment to do so. These forms cover the reason of the consultation, your health history and your lifestyle.

Do you have a list of medications? Bring it!

STEP 2 - ANAMNESIS

During your first visit at the Passion Santé Clinic, your chiropractor will perform a complete assessment of your situation. He will ask you a series of questions about your general health, your lifestyle and your medical history. This exam will also allow him to know your needs and the reasons for your consultation.

STEP 3 - PHYSICAL EXAM

He will then proceed to the analysis of your physical condition. He will perform orthopaedic, neurological and chiropractic examinations in order to identify the cause of your problem(s). He will also examine your vital signs as needed. During the chiropractic examination, your doctor will evaluate your posture, your joint mobility, your muscular condition and your neurological reactions. The duration of an initial visit for chiropractic care can take up to 60 minutes.

STEP 4 - DIAGNOSIS AND EXPLANATIONS

Following the examinations made, your chiropractor will be able to make a diagnosis and establish a treatment plan tailored to your needs. He will take the time to fully explain the nature of your condition and the contribution that the treatments will have on it. You will also be informed of the procedures and treatment methods that will be used to help you. Complementary care can also be presented to you such as recommendations on life habits, massage therapy, a medical consultation, etc. Your level of motivation to follow the treatments will also be considered in the plan that will be proposed to you. The objective will be to determine with you which protocol of care is best suited for you to improve your quality of life. Of course, your chiropractor will be able to answer your questions and/or concerns.

STEP 5 - FIRST TREATMENT

This will begin your care as discussed and established in the treatment plan. Remember to mention if you have discomfort during treatment and ask questions if you feel the need.

Normally, yes! The first appointment usually includes the opening of your file and an initial treatment to help you relieve your pain quickly. Once you've left the office, your chiropractor will establish a treatment plan tailored to your needs and present it to you at your second appointment. Subsequent visits will follow.

Respecting your treatment plan and following your chiropractor's recommendations are essential to heal quicker and achieve long lasting results.

The frequency of visits depends on the individual's condition, severity of symptoms, and treatment goals. Some patients may require only a few sessions, while others might need regular visits over a longer period. Your chiropractor will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Absolutely! Chiropractic is safe when practised by qualified and competent chiropractors. To minimize risks, it's essential to choose a professional accredited by a professional association such as the New Brunswick Chiropractors' Association, to communicate openly about your health and medical history, and to opt for a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Safety also depends on identifying contraindications, such as recent fractures, infections or specific medical conditions. A chiropractor who keeps his skills up to date with ongoing training is able to identify these contraindications and adapt your treatment plan.

Most patients do not experience pain during an adjustment, though some might feel a bit of discomfort or mild soreness afterward, similar to what you might feel after a workout. The chiropractor should use techniques and force appropriate for each patient.

Yes, chiropractic care can be safe for children when performed by a trained chiropractor. Pediatric chiropractic care typically involves gentler techniques than those used for adults. Parents can ask questions and discuss any concerns with our chiropractor before or during the session. Contact us!

No, chiropractors do not prescribe drugs. They take a holistic view of the human being and the healing process. They work with non-invasive manual therapy techniques. For conditions requiring medication, chiropractors will refer patients to their doctors or other healthcare providers.

Yes, chiropractic care can help with certain types of headaches, particularly tension headaches and headaches originating from the neck. Chiropractors may use spinal manipulation, muscle therapy, and advice on posture and lifestyle changes to alleviate headache symptoms.

OVERVIEW OF THE HUMAN BODY

The human body is composed of approximately 640 muscles attached to the bones and that allows movement. The 206 bones of the skeleton are partly interlinked by joints that allow them to move. Because of the nervous system, which is constituted of nerves, muscles can move properly to perform the desired sports activity. The muscles are interlinked by fasciae. A fascia is composed of connective tissue that looks like a white orange peel and that separates and unites the muscles. The fascia allows the muscles to keep their shape and to link them together. Hence, the fasciae connect the body from head to toe. When we're moving, the layers of fascia slide and allow adequate and fluent movements. However, several problems, frequently encountered in clinics, create adhesions on the fasciae and limit movement:

• Physical inactivity
• Aging
• Prolonged bad posture
• Microtrauma during daily life activities and sports

Thus, the young child as well as the elderly are at risk of possible injury to the fasciae. In addition to the fascia, the bone, ligament and tendon structures, bursae and cartilage are all at risk of injuries. The human body is very complex and with the evaluation of the chiropractor at Medispine, you will be in good hands.

Here are examples of reasons for consultation being treated in sports chiropractic:

• Spinal and/or joint mobility dysfunction
• A deficiency in sport-specific technique
• Muscle weakness
• Overtraining
• Poor recovery between workouts
• A sequel to a previous injury
• A sports injury lasting several weeks or even months
• Pain when performing sport without pain, as part of daily life activities

At Medispine, our doctors of chiropractic treat not only the spine and the proper functioning of peripheral joints, but also the entire musculoskeletal system and fasciae. We assess where are the deficiencies and prevent injuries. Thus, the chiropractor encourages, promotes and maintains the latest standards of professional conduct in the treatment of sports injuries. He/She strongly contributes to the optimization of the neuromusculoskeletal functions restoration by the treatments and the prescription of specific and personalized exercises for you.