How it works

Chiropractic, put simply, is a highly regulated primary healthcare profession which diagnoses, treats, manages and prevents disorders of the bones, joints and muscles.

What is a Chiropractor?

Chiropractors have a specific focus and specialist interest in the back and neck.

From there the treatment process observes and treats the effects that these conditions and disorders can have on the nervous system and a patients health in general. For example, a lower back injury or muscular condition can cause pain to travel down the leg, a commonly known condition called sciatica.

“Very professional and makes you feel at ease”

“I have been treated several times by Leslie for problems in my shoulders, hips and back. His treatment has enabled me to get back on my feet quickly and return to sports pain free. Highly recommended.”

Steve Middleton

What is chiropractic treatment?

Treatment itself uses a range of techniques including gentle hands on manipulation of the spine.

Alongside this runs an individualised program of care which can include ice, heat, ultra sound, exercises, stretching, dry needling and acupuncture.

What is a chiropractic treatment plan?

Hand in hand with the treatment plan, chiropractors offer advice on self help, therapeutic exercises, posture, seating at home and in the work environment and general lifestyle advice. This all round care is something which forms the basis of the chiropractic approach to healthcare.

“Leslie gave great advice”

“Leslie spends time listening to your concerns and gives you confidence that you will start to feel better soon. I had poor posture from sitting at a desk and this had caused neck pain – along with dizziness, headaches and nausea. Following treatment the symptoms disappeared and Leslie gave great advice so I could make the necessary changes to my work space which improved my overall wellbeing.”

Sarah Stainer

chiropractic patient testimonials and reviews

Chiropractic and your lifestyle

Chiropractic takes patients entire physical, emotional and social well being into account. This means that chiropractic care encompasses the whole person on every level.

It takes into account how a patients health may impact their exercise regime, mental wellbeing and social and leisure activities. Every facet of a persons life is important.

Chiropractors believe in aligning all the physical and mental factors of a persons body and lifestyle. Each part of a persons health and lifestyle is entwined and each aspect has a knock on effect on the other.

How a patient gains knowledge and understanding about their injury or condition and their road to their recovery is a large part of the chiropractic treatment program.

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FAQ

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions that chiropractors hear most frequently:

What will happen on my first visit?

Firstly, we cover the details of your current condition and talk through what has prompted you to seek chiropractic treatment. You tell me about your previous injuries and I take a relevant medical history. We discuss how your condition started, what you think caused it and how long you have been suffering with it. Once we have a more detailed picture I explain your options to you at this stage.

How often will I need to come for and how long will it take to get better?

After we have discussed your condition and I have examined you I will be able to give a fairly precise estimation of what length of time it might take to recover. At this stage I will explain other options you have.

How long is a treatment session and how many treatments will I need?

Treatment sessions are half an hour long and the number of treatments required will depend on your specific problem and how long you have had it. Following your first visit it will be easier to give a clearer idea about how long it might take to recover. Treatment varies from person to person, each individual is different.

Do I need a referral from my GP to see a chiropractor?

Chiropractic is a primary healthcare so you do not need a referral from your GP.

How much will it cost?

Each treatment is £55. The first visit, which includes a consultation, examination and a treatment, costs £65.

How quickly can I be seen?

We endeavour to see patients quickly, usually within 24 hours.

Will it hurt?

All my patients tell me treatment is gentle and pain free. I am sympathetic to the fact that many of my patients are in pain and I empathise with that.

What if my condition can’t be helped by chiropractic treatment?

In this case you will be referred to your GP or on for further investigation to a consultant for scans or X-rays.

What is the difference between chiropractic, osteopathy and physiotherapy?

The three disciplines are similar with differences. Each can treat back conditions and each uses a slightly different technique and approach. Chiropractors are also trained to take and read X-rays. All three are hands-on treatment.

Is chiropractic available on the NHS?

Chiropractic is not available on the NHS currently. Within PRMC the GP’s refer their patients on for a free chiropractic assessment and possible further private treatment. At this time chiropractic treatment is only available in the UK privately.

Is chiropractic covered by Private Health Insurance?

The majority of private health insurance companies will reimburse you for chiropractic treatment costs. A lot will depend on your individual policy and so it is advisable to check directly with your insurer.

What is a chiropractic adjustment and what is that popping sound?

During the treatment, you may experience a popping sensation in your joints and hear a popping or cracking sound, this is exactly the same sound as clicking your knuckles. It is just the sound of gas bubbles popping in the fluid of the joints as pressure is released. All my patients tell me treatment is gentle and pain free.

Will I need X-rays?

In some cases X-rays are required and you will be sent back to your GP for a referral or referred directly to a private facility. X-rays that have been taken within the last few years can be requested for reference. If you have any X-rays or a recent report then do bring them with you.

Can anyone call themselves a chiropractor?

It is illegal to practice as a chiropractor in the UK or use the title Doctor of Chiropractic or be referred to as a Chiropractor without being registered with the General Chiropractic Council. The title Doctor of Chiropractic and the title Chiropractor are protected by law under the 1994 Chiropractors Act.

Is chiropractic safe?

Chiropractors undergo a thorough four year internationally accredited medical degree training. The profession is highly regulated by The General Chiropractic Council in the UK.

Can I park outside?

At Poole Road Medical Centre we have ample free parking and there are additional spaces in the adjacent street Clarendon Road where you can park for free for 2 hours.

What is your policy for cancellation?

We require 24 hour advance notice of cancellation or rearrangement of appointments as the clinic is very busy and appointments are in high demand. Less than 24 hours notice will incur a cancellation fee.