Question 1

What is "Evidence-Based" Chiropractic?"

Accepted Answer

"Evidence-based" is an approach to medical practice intended to optimize decision-making by emphasizing the use of evidence from well-designed and well-conducted research. It is a mix of clinical judgement, relevant scientific evidence, and patients values and preferences. It utilizes current evidence in making decisions in regards to management, care efficacy, efficiency and safety of a patient. We take pride in providing ethical chiropratic care with no gimmicks or false claims.

Question 2

Why don't we use thermal nerve scans?

Accepted Answer

Many chiropractors use computerized instruments or a hand-held scanning device that is moved up and down the spine that is used to measure skin temperature differences and electrical activity in muscles claimed to be associated with 'nerve interference'. The results appear on a screen that displays graphic bar colors alleged to indicate the location of 'interfered nerves'.
 
Even when there are no physical or neurological symptoms, such testing may be used to persuade a patient to undergo treatment.
 
There have been zero published studies that demonstrate how the results of these scans can be used to enhance patient management or improve patient health outcomes. The scans are not a valid diagnostic technique.
 
Despite their lack of scientific support, colorful thermographic images are still used by many chiropractors as a tool for selling spinal adjustments. You should assume that any chiropractor who does this will probably find something that 'needs' treatment.

Question 3

What is the difference between a "New Patient" appointment and a "Treatment" appointment?"

Accepted Answer

A "New Patient Initial Asessment" appointment is required for a patient that is new to the clinic. It consists of a health history and a physical exam to help us understand your pain. These appointments include a treatment with the price.
 
A "Treatment" appointment is for existing patients that have already undergone an initial asessment.

Question 4

What can I expect on my first visit?

Accepted Answer

Your first appointment will include a health history, and physical examination including a few orthopaedic tests to better understand your condition and presenting symptoms. This will help us with an understanding of how to treat your complaint. You will be given treatment options that will consist of either chiropractic, acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, or massage.
 
Please book a "New Patient Initial Asessment" if you are a new patient.

Question 5

How does electro-acupuncture work?

Accepted Answer

Electro-acupuncture releases naturally occuring endogenous opiods that act exactly like taking a pain killer, on top of the increased blood perfusion to the site of injury stimulated by the needle, encouraging healing and prevention of the development of chronic pain.
 
For more information, please click here.

Question 6

Why don't we X-Ray every patient?

Accepted Answer

X-Rays emit ionizing radiation. Exposure to ionizing radiation can cause damage to living tissue, and can result in cell damage.
 
While digital X-Ray delivers a very low dose of radiation to a patient and very rarely leads to harm, we prefer to limit the amount of ionizing radiation on our patients.
 
Manual orthopaedic testing performed by the doctor is usually sufficient in non-traumatic circumstances to reach a diagnosis.
 
This approach saves many patients from unnessecary radiation exposure and X-Ray costs.
 
In cases of trauma, severe swelling, or where a fracture is suspected, an X-Ray will be taken.

Question 7

For what reasons should I book a house call?

Accepted Answer

House calls can be used whenever you want or need health care services to come to you. Scenarios where you would benefit from a house call include:
 
• When your work schedule makes it difficult to make an appointment
• When you cannot book during regular clinic hours
• When other health-care providers are closed or unavailable
• If you have difficulties leaving your home
• If you have no acessible transportation
 
for more information, please see House Calls

Question 8

Does acupuncture hurt?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture is not painful. A "pain-free" needle insertion technique is used that minimizes pain. Initailly, it can be described as a small "pinch". Most times, the patient can't even feel the needle because they are so thin and gently inserted.
 
Once a needle reaches its intended depth, you're likely to feel a "heavy" feeling, like a weight has been placed on the area. The heaviness is calming rather than harsh. If you feel anything that's severe or sharp pain, you should let your practitioner know.

Question 9

Is acupuncture dangerous?

Accepted Answer

The risks of acupuncture are low if you have a competent, certified acupuncture practitioner using sterile needles. The most common side effects are minor, which include soreness and minor bleeding or bruising where the needles were inserted. Single-use, sterile, disposable needles are now the practice standard, so the risk of infection is extremely minimal.
 
The world-wide incidence for serious adverse events with acupuncture is roughly 5 per million treatments.
(That's 0.000005% chance of experiencing an adverse event.)

Question 10

Do we direct bill insurance providers?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Please bring a photo ID and your insurance card with policy number and member ID to your first appointment. For more information about direct billing please click here

Question 11

Where can I park?

Accepted Answer

For the duration of your treatment, we reccomend parking in the following locations:
 
1. Street parking on 50th (Ross) Street
 
2. Red Deer Lot P4 (4900, 49th Ave.)
 
3. Sorenson Station Parkade (4813, 49 Street)
 
For more information, please click here.

Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, Custom Orthotics

Frequently Asked Questions