Frequently Asked Questions
We find our clients usually have a lot of questions about the treatment process. We have collected the most commonly asked questions here to help with your curiosity. If you are unable to find an answer to your question here, please feel free to contact us.
General Information
Do I need a referral from a GP?
You don’t need a referral from a GP or a specialist in order to see a chiropractor as they are classified as a Primary Healthcare Practitioner.
How Do I Become a Patient?
You can either book online or phone the clinic to make an enquiry.
What should I expect on my first visit?
Firstly, you will receive a one-on-one consultation with our practitioner. On your first visit, you will be asked to fill out an initial consultation form.
Our practitioner will then ask you questions to better understand your background including your medical history, previous injuries and current symptoms.
We may also review any imaging.scans you may have and conduct a physical examination which may involve observation, palpation (touch) and movement. This will help determine a diagnosis and a course of treatment that suits you best. Our practitioner will start treatment which includes education about your condition, manual therapy, stretches/exercise prescription and lifestyle changes.
What causes a popping sound when a joint is adjusted?
The sound often heard during an adjustment is called a cavitation. It is actually caused by the release of gas bubbles between joints, which a popping sound. The noise is caused by the change of pressure within the joint, which results in gas bubbles being released.
Do I need to have X-Rays?
No, but any previous X-rays or scans will assist in our diagnosis. If X-rays are required, our chiropractor can write a referral or we can send you to the GP if other scans are required.
Can I see a Chiropractor if I'm pregnant?
Yes, treatment is available for people who are pregnant. The treatment provided is modified and tailored to assist you before and after the birthing process. Our focus is to stabilise and maintain normal function to the pelvic area.
Is Chiropractic care appropriate for over 55's?
Yes, chiropractic care is extremely versatile. It is important to maintain your vitality, mobility and flexibility as you grow older in life. Chiro Focus has helped many older patients with managing their chronic conditions and arthritic symptoms.
How long will I need Chiropractic care?
The length of care may be determined by our chiropractor on your first visit. Each individual has a unique injury, chronic condition, and/or medical history that varies the length of treatment. We aim to deliver the most effective course of treatment to suit your needs.
Treatment
How long is a consultation?
The first consultation will take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on your presenting condition.
Standard consultations are approximately 15 minutes.
Do Chiropractic Adjustments hurt?
Chiropractic adjustments are generally pain free. Many people find having a chiropractic adjustment soothing and relaxing. Your level of comfort varies depending on your injury, presence of inflammation and muscle tension as well as the condition of your spine and joints. Some people may feel mild tenderness after an adjustment, similar to a strenuous workout at the gym.
Will I be sore after the treatment?
It is common to experience some level of soreness after treatment. Some people may feel great the next day whilst others may experience mild soreness. If the soreness persists for more than a few days, please contact us to discuss your concerns.
What should I wear?
Depending on your problem area, we recommend that you wear comfortable clothing that allows our practitioner to access and treat with ease. If you forget, that’s okay, we have plenty of gowns available in the clinic.
Billing
Will my Private Health Fund cover Chiropractic treatment?
Yes. If you have private health insurance, it will cover some of the cost and the remaining gap will depend on your level of cover. We do have HICAPS on premises, so you can claim on the spot and the gap can be paid by EFTPOS or cash.
What payment methods do you accept?
We have HICAPS in the practice and accept payments via EFTPOS
What is HICAPS?
HICAPS is an acronym for the Health Industry Claims and Payments Service. It is an electronic health claims and payments system that allows Australians to claim Medicare, WorkSafe Victoria, and private health insurance benefits when they make a payment for a health service.
How does HICAPS work?
Many healthcare providers offer HICAPS so that they can process private health insurance, Medicare, and WorkSafe Victoria claims for their patients on the spot.
HICAPS uses a terminal similar to EFTPOS to communicate with your health insurance provider or government department.