Posture correction

Poor posture might not sound like a big deal, but over time the stress that poor posture places on your spine can lead to changes in the spinal structure, provoking pain and problems with your muscles, discs and joints.

In some cases it can cause a more serious diagnosis:

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine abnormally bends either to the right or left. For some people, the condition does not affect their day-to-day lives.

Cause

The cause of scoliosis is unknown in most cases, and such cases are referred to as idiopathic scoliosis. However, in around 30% of idiopathic scoliosis cases there is some family history of the condition, which points towards a genetic link. Some scoliosis cases are found to have been causes by health conditions that affect the nerves and muscles, including cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy. In very rare cases, scoliosis is present at the birth. In some adult sufferers, it has been found to be causes by gradual damage to parts of the spine.

Symptoms

People with scoliosis will notice a change in the appearance of their shoulders, chest or hips: they may have one high shoulder, a shoulder blade that is more prominent than the other and one hip might stick out.If the curvature of the spine worsens then the condition can become uncomfortable and muscles near to the site of the curve may feel sore and tender.

Solution

Treatment for scoliosis will vary depending on how severe the curve of the spine is. If your posture points towards scoliosis, we can assess you using X-ray technology to effectively measure and examine your posture.

Our treatment for scoliosis focuses on managing your pain and the function of your spine. We will use gentle and specific adjustments to help improve the function and flexibility of your spine. We can also advise you on strengthening and stretching spinal exercises to compliment your chiropractic treatment.

Chiropractic treatment for scoliosis may not reverse long term spinal curves but it will work towards making you more comfortable by improving the overall function of your spine.

The Hump (Kyphosis)

Kyphosis is where the curve at the top of the back appears more rounded than is normal. A healthy spine will naturally have an outward curve at the top, however a curve of more than 60 degrees is understood to be a sign of kyphosis, or “the hump”.

Cause

In cases of kyphosis, the thoracic section of vertebrae is curved out of position. There are three different types of kyphosis: postural, Scheuermann’s and congenital. Postural kyphosis results when a person’s poor posture pulls the thoracic vertebrae out of position. If vertebrae do not develop in the right way then they can end up being out of position, which causes Scheurermann’s kyphosis. Congenital kyphosis is caused by abnormal development of the spine in the womb, which can result in vertebrae fusing together.

Symptoms

Sometimes, the only symptom of kyphosis is an exaggerated hunch at the top of the back. In some cases, however, the condition can cause a stiff and painful back, spine tenderness and tiredness. If your kyphosis is severe, your symptoms may get worse over time. Some sufferers experience difficulty breathing and eating.

Solution

To treat your kyphosis we will assess the severity of the hump through a physical examination and, if necessary, an X-ray. We will determine the cause of your kyphosis and once we have a clear understanding of your case we will propose an appropriate treatment plan. If you have postural kyphosis, we can advise you on how to improve your posture, balance and core strength.

Forward head posture

Forward head posture is when a person’s head is positioned in front of their shoulders rather than above. It has become an increasingly common problem due to the fact that so many peoples’ lives are now structured around using computers, mobile phones, tablets and laptops in and out of work.

Cause

When we use electronic devices, we tend to drop our heads forward, which rounds the shoulders and results in forward head posture. This postural problem can also be caused by sleeping with too many pillows or from a lack of developed back muscle strength.

Symptoms

A forward head posture places excessive strain on the muscles in your neck and back. In fact, research suggests that for each extra inch your head sits forward of your shoulders, the head gains another 10 pounds in weight. This means your back and neck muscles have to work a lot harder to keep your head from dropping forward, which adds pressure to the base of your skill resulting in headaches, tingling in the arms and pain between the shoulder blades.

Solution

We will begin by realigning your spine into the correct position and relaxing the muscles that have been affected. We will then advise you on the correct neck and shoulder posture and the type of exercises that can help you to gain control over weakened postural neck muscles.

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Frequently asked questions

Here are some questions we often get asked. If you need any more information, just give us a call and we will be happy to answer your queries.

What is Chiropractic treatment?

Chiropractic treatment involves safe, gentle and specific manipulations and mobilisation to ease joints in the spine and other parts of the body that are not moving properly or require extra mobility. This is Known as a “Chiropractic adjustment”. As well as these adjustments Chiropractors are fully trained to use methods including sports massage, exercise therapy, dry needling, postural rehabilitation, nutritional advice, sports taping and more to get to the root cause of your problem and prevent it from returning.

What do Chiropractors treat?

Whilst Chiropractors are best known for treating back and neck pain successfully patients also consult Chiropractors regarding a wide range of injuries and promlems. Chiropractors can help you with:

Back pain, neck pain, whiplash, hip osteoarthritis, knee osteoarthritis, hip pain, knee pain, ankle pain, plantar fasciitis, migrained, neck related headaches and dizziness, shoulder pain, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, elbow and wrist pain and sciatica.

How can Chiropractic help?

Whether you have a pain that you feel is not serious (but would rather be without), have the same problems occurring over and over again or you have a new pain that you’ve never had before: We are here to help. However mild or severe your symptoms are our team of highly trained clinicians are here to help you. Here at Advanced Chiropractic we see many patients every week who are new to Chiropractic treatment. If this is you and you’d like to have a chat to one of our Chiropractors before booking your first session then you can call us on 01621 856452.

What happens at my first appointment?

One of our experience and friendly chiropractors will begin by asking you questions about your complaint and any other problems that have been concerning you. We listen to the full story. We will also cover a detailed past medical history which will enable us to obtain an overview of your health and wellbeing.

We will then carry out a thorough and specific neuro-orthopeadic examination to find the root cause of your problem. These results combined with your history will allow us to formulate a diagnosis. At this stage, if it is appropriate, your Chiropractor may talk to you about starting treatment. If it is necessary your Chiropractor will discuss the need for any further investigations, such as Ultrasound, X-Rays or MRIs. Your next appointment is called a “Report of Findings”.

What happens after my first appointment?

Your next appointment is called a “Report of Findings”.

We will provide you with a full diagnosis and discuss your bespoke management plan. This will include recommendations designed to address your complaint and way to help you achieve and maintain your health. If after the history and examination your Chiropractor feels the problem is unsuitable for Chiropractic treatment we will endeavour to refer you to the appropriate specialists. In your Report of findings we will discuss:

What we found during your examination
Your personal care pain and the reasons for these recommendations
The results of any imaging referrals
The options and choices you have
Self-help exercises and rehab techniques
The cost of treatment
Your expected recovery time

Everything covered will also be provided in your very own Patient Report Pack. During your Report of Findings you can ask as many questions as you need to. At Advanced Chiropractic clinics we feel it is very important you understand everything we have discussed and decided.

Once you are happy with everything we have discussed you are ready for your first Chiropractic treatment.

Should I bring anything with me to my first appointment?

We will need to know any previous surgery, illness, your past medical records as well as your current state of health including any medication you are taking. Any previous scans, X-rays, MRIs, letters or investigations are always helpful.

If you are intending to claim for treatment using private health insurance it is useful to bring the details with you.

You will be offered a gown during all assessments and treatments.

If you are having your first Chiropractic consultation and you have a lower limb related problem you should bring shorts.

If your problem is athletic/activity related e.g running or playing a musical instrument then you should bring any pertinent footwear or equipment.

If you are having a Sport Massage and you require work to your lower limbs or low back you should bring shorts.

If you are having a Exercise Rehabilitation Assessment or Sports Specific Assessment please wear something comfortable that you are able to move in. Wearing your normal trainers would be helpful.

Will I have to undress for a Chiropractic consultation?

For our clinicians to do an accurate assessment and gather all relevant information it is often beneficial to uncover the body part in question. We assure you that all levels of decency will be observed at all times and we encourage you to bring a chaperone if you feel more comfortable. You will be offered a freshly laundered gown with every appointment and we can also provide clean shorts or vest tops.

If you have an upper body or neck problem you will be required to remove your top half. Ladies should wear underwear that they feel comfortable in or bring a vest top.

For a lower limb or low back problem we will often ask you to uncover both your lower and upper back. For the lower half we would suggest that you bring some shorts.

It is important to communicate your feelings if at any time you feel uncomfortable during the process.

How many sessions will it take?

There are many factors which influence how quickly you recover from an injury. Some conditions require less treatment and some conditions require more treatment. During your initial consultation, your Chiropractor will go through with you how many treatments they think you will need.

How long do appointments last?

A Chiropractic New Patient Consultation lasts approximately 60 minutes. Follow up treatments (Chiropractic Adjustments) are scheduled at 15 minutes. We timetable all our appointments with ample time to allow for the highest quality service.

How quickly can I get an appointment?

We know that when you are in pain you want to get it sorted as soon as possible. Therefore, we will always aim to offer your a same day or following day appointment.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

No. You do not need a referral from your GP for any of our services. We aim to offer a complementary service to your family doctor and are happy to communicate directly with your GP to provide them with up to date information for your medical records.

How much is the cost of a consultation?

Chiropractic New Patient Consultation – £50
To include: detailed history, neuro-othopedic examination, postural examination, referral for any diagnostic imaging* and report of findings.

Chiropractic Adjustments – £35
Subsequent treatments after your new patient consultation. You will be recommended a number of visits during your report of findings and will never be charged more than this price.

Massage – £32
You will be informed of when a sports massage will benefit your course of care. The cost is for 30minutes of either sports or swedish massage, depending on your individual needs.

Health Insurance Registered?
We accept most major health insurance companies.

What do I need to know before my treatment starts

Your Chiropractor will go through everything you need to know in your Report of Findings session before your treatment starts. Once you have all the relevant information you have the option to start treatment right there and then, or to wait until you feel ready to get started.

Will the treatment hurt

Chiropractic treatment is usually painless unless an area is inflamed (swollen). If this is the case your chiropractor will alter the treatment. Don’t worry if you hear a clicking or popping noise when one of your joints is being manipulated – this is perfectly normal with this form of treatment. Some patients have mild reactions such as temporary aches and pains after their spine or joints have been manipulated or after exercising. It is important that you talk to your chiropractor if you feel worried about anything either during or after treatment.

Will I need an X-ray or MRI?

Your Chiropractor will discuss if you need any further investigations at your New Patient Consultation. We have fantastic links with local hospitals and imaging centres so whether you need an MRI, X-ray, Ultrasound or anything else we have you covered.