Frequently Asked Questions

Chiropractors focus on the health of your spine and nervous system. Through gentle adjustments and manual therapies, they help improve movement, reduce pain, and support your body’s natural healing ability.

Chiropractors treat a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, particularly those related to the spine, joints, and nervous system. Common conditions include:

• Back and neck pain

• Headaches and migraines

• Sciatica and nerve irritation

• Postural issues and workplace strain

• Shoulder, elbow, and wrist pain

• Hip, knee, ankle, and foot pain

• Muscle tension and joint stiffness

• Sports injuries and movement restrictions

• Pregnancy-related discomfort

• Reduced range of motion or mobility concerns

Chiropractic care isn’t just about spinal adjustments — many practitioners also incorporate soft-tissue work, exercise rehab, and posture retraining.

No referral is needed. You can book directly with a chiropractor without seeing your GP first.

Your first visit includes a thorough health history, physical assessment, and a clear explanation of findings. If appropriate, treatment may begin on the same day.

Chiropractic adjustments are generally gentle and safe. Some people feel instant relief, while others may experience mild soreness — similar to post-exercise stiffness.

It depends on your condition and goals. Some people feel better after 1–2 visits, while others benefit from a short course of care or ongoing maintenance. We’ll always discuss this with you upfront.

Yes. Most Australian private health funds include chiropractic under “Extras” cover. The rebate amount depends on your level of cover and your provider (e.g., Bupa, Medibank, HCF, NIB). You’ll usually just swipe your health fund card at the clinic to claim on the spot through HICAPS.
If you’re unsure, check your policy for chiropractic benefits and annual limits. You can also combine private health rebates with Medicare’s Chronic Disease Management (CDM/EPC) plans if your GP has referred you — though you can’t claim both for the same visit.

Yes, we offer HICAPS for instant claiming with most major health funds. You’ll only need to pay the gap after your rebate is applied.

Yes – but only under specific conditions. Medicare may help cover chiropractic services through the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan, designed for patients with long-term health conditions requiring coordinated care. If eligible, and with a valid referral from your GP, you can access up to five partially subsidised chiropractic visits each calendar year.

At our Melbourne clinic, all chiropractors are Medicare-registered. While we don’t offer bulk billing, we do provide instant electronic claiming. You simply pay the consultation fee, and Medicare rebates $56 per eligible visit (as of 2025), typically reimbursed to your bank account within 1–2 business days.

Want to know more? Speak to your GP about a CDM referral, and visit our Fees page to download the Medicare Guide and learn how to get started.

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Yes, we accept valid EPC (Enhanced Primary Care) referrals for chiropractic treatment.
Please bring your referral and Medicare card to your first appointment. We’ll submit your Medicare claim electronically so you can receive your rebate directly from Medicare.
The full consultation fee is paid on the day, and Medicare will reimburse their portion to your nominated bank account. Click to view more information about Medicare Rebates.  

Yes. All chiropractors in Australia must complete a five-year university degree and be registered with AHPRA. They also undergo regular training to stay current.

Yes. Chiropractors commonly help with poor posture, sports-related injuries, headaches, back pain, and more. We tailor care to your lifestyle — whether you’re at a desk all day or training hard.

If you’ve recently been in a car accident, even a minor one, it’s wise to see a chiropractor within the first few days to weeks — once serious injuries have been ruled out. Whiplash, neck stiffness, headaches, and lower back pain can develop gradually, sometimes hours or days later.
A chiropractor can assess your spine, muscles, and joints for hidden injuries, and help restore proper movement before pain becomes chronic. Early treatment often means faster recovery and fewer long-term complications.
If your accident was under TAC (Transport Accident Commission) cover, you may also be eligible for chiropractic treatment funding — your chiropractor can guide you through this process.

Yes. Many chiropractors in Melbourne collaborate with physiotherapists, myotherapists, and podiatrists for a multidisciplinary approach. If your condition involves muscles, joints, or movement patterns, combining treatments can often lead to faster and more lasting results.

When delivered by a qualified chiropractor, care is safe and gentle for pregnant women and children. Special techniques and positioning are used to ensure comfort and safety.

In chiropractic care, a red flag refers to signs or symptoms that may indicate a more serious underlying medical condition—not just typical musculoskeletal pain. These warning signs suggest that chiropractic treatment alone may not be appropriate and that further medical investigation is needed before proceeding.

Common chiropractic red flags include:

• Unexplained weight loss

• Severe, constant pain especially at night or unrelated to movement

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

• Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg – especially on one side of the body

• History of cancer or recent infection

• Sudden, severe headache or visual changes in one or both eyes

• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech

• History of trauma with suspected bone fracture

• Drooping on one side of the face (ask the person to smile – one side may not move)

• Sudden confusion or disorientation

At our Melbourne chiropractic clinic, practitioners are trained to identify red flags early and refer patients for appropriate medical imaging or specialist care when necessary. Safety and appropriate clinical judgement are top priorities.

If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are suitable for chiropractic, book a consultation — we’ll take a detailed history, perform an assessment, and let you know the best next step.

Yes. All of our chiropractors:

• Have completed a minimum of 5 years tertiary education

• Are registered with the Chiropractic Board of Australia

• Choose to stay involved in the profession by optionally joining associations such as the Chiropractors’ Association of Australia (CAA)

• Attend ongoing professional development seminars to stay current with the latest research and treatment approaches

Not necessarily — it depends on your condition. Both chiropractors and physiotherapists are highly trained professionals who treat a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, but they offer different approaches.

Chiropractors commonly treat:

• Back and neck pain

• Disc injuries and sciatica

• Sports injuries

• Shoulder, elbow & wrist issues

• Hip, knee, ankle & foot issues.

• Pregnancy-related discomfort (pre and postnatal)

• Chronic conditions such as headaches, joint stiffness, and poor posture

Physiotherapists, on the other hand, focus more on rehabilitation, movement retraining, and exercise therapy, making them ideal for injury recovery, post-surgical care, and improving strength and flexibility.

At our Melbourne clinic, we take a collaborative approach. Our chiropractors often work alongside a senior physiotherapist at the same centre, so you receive well-rounded care tailored to your needs. Each discipline has its own strengths, and when combined, patients often achieve better, faster, and longer-lasting results.

Still unsure which is right for you? Contact us to find out whether chiropractic, physiotherapy, or a combination is the best fit for your condition.

If you’re dealing with ongoing pain, stiffness, poor posture, or limited mobility, it might be time to see a chiropractor. Chiropractic care is suitable for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Back and neck pain

• Headaches and migraines linked to spinal tension

• Joint issues such as knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and ankle pain

• Nerve irritation like sciatica or tingling

• Sports injuries and repetitive strain

• Pregnancy-related discomfort (pre and postnatal)

• Postural strain from desk work or screens

• Chronic pain that hasn’t improved with other treatments

Unlike pharmaceuticals, which offer a chemical solution, chiropractic takes a physical, hands-on approach. It’s a conservative, drug-free method with origins tracing back to the Ancient Greeks, focusing on spinal and joint function to support the body’s natural healing.

At our Melbourne clinic, chiropractors collaborate with a senior physiotherapist to ensure you receive the most appropriate care. This team-based model helps you recover faster and maintain long-term results.

Unsure whether chiropractic is right for you? Get in touch, and we’ll guide you through your options.

When choosing a chiropractor in Brunswick or greater Melbourne, look for someone who takes the time to understand your health goals and explains their approach clearly. Check that they’re AHPRA-registered, have Australian-accredited chiropractic qualifications, and are experienced in treating the specific condition you’re seeking help for — whether that’s back pain, headaches, or sports injuries.
You might also consider:

• How long the clinic has been established in the area
• Whether they offer tailored care plans rather than a one-size-fits-all approach
• Reviews from other patients in Brunswick or nearby suburbs
  Ultimately, you should feel comfortable asking questions and confident that your chiropractor listens and provides clear recommendations.

✅ Signs of a Good Chiropractor:

• AHPRA-registered and follows evidence-based guidelines
• Takes a thorough history and physical examination before treatment
• Explains your condition and treatment options in clear, understandable terms
• Involves you in your care plan and sets realistic goals
• Offers individualised treatment, not a one-size-fits-all approach
• Works collaboratively with other health providers
• Recommends further tests or referrals if needed (e.g., for red flags)
• Encourages self-care, exercise, and lifestyle changes—not dependency

🚩 Red Flag Behaviours to Watch for in Health Professionals

• Pushes heavily long-term treatment plans or expensive pre-paid packages upfront
• Discourages medical tests or second opinions
• Relies on fear-based tactics or says you’ll get worse if you stop care
• Doesn’t adjust care based on your progress or feedback
• Doesn’t explain what they’re doing or why
• Ignores informed consent or doesn’t ask about your medical history

Final Tip:

Check their credentials with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) and read local Google reviews to see how other patients have experienced their care.

Not all chiropractors practise the same way, and knowing how to spot the difference can save you time, money, and frustration. Here are key signs that distinguish a good chiropractor from one you may want to avoid:

✅ Signs of a Good Chiropractor:

• AHPRA-registered and follows evidence-based guidelines

• Takes a thorough history and physical examination before treatment

• Explains your condition and treatment options in clear, understandable terms

• Involves you in your care plan and sets realistic goals

• Offers individualised treatment, not a one-size-fits-all approach

• Works collaboratively with other health providers

• Recommends further tests or referrals if needed (e.g., for red flags)

• Encourages self-care, exercise, and lifestyle changes—not dependency

🚩 Red Flag Behaviours to Watch for in Health Professionals

• Pushes heavily long-term treatment plans or expensive pre-paid packages upfront

• Discourages medical tests or second opinions

• Relies on fear-based tactics or says you’ll get worse if you stop care

• Doesn’t adjust care based on your progress or feedback

• Doesn’t explain what they’re doing or why

• Ignores informed consent or doesn’t ask about your medical history

Final Tip:

Check their credentials with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) and read local Google reviews to see how other patients have experienced their care.

Chiropractors are highly trained, university-qualified professionals, registered with Medicare and recognised by key government bodies including WorkCover, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), TAC, NDIS, and Aged Care programs. They treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions and play an important role in conservative, non-surgical care.

Yet despite their extensive training and broad recognition across multiple healthcare systems, some people remain sceptical. Below are the key reasons why that scepticism doesn’t always reflect the reality of modern chiropractic care.

1. Limited Exposure Among Medical Professionals

Chiropractors don’t typically work within hospitals or alongside GPs during clinical training, unlike physiotherapists. As a result, many doctors have limited exposure to chiropractic care, which can lead to bias or misunderstanding due to lack of familiarity.

2. Generalisation from a Single Bad Experience

This is where chiropractic often faces unfair scrutiny. If someone has a poor experience with a GP or physio, they usually find another. But if they have a bad experience with one chiropractor, it’s common to write off the entire profession — which is clearly an unfair bias. Like any field, there are both excellent and underwhelming practitioners. 

3. Misinformation and Outdated Stereotypes

Public perception is still influenced by outdated ideas about chiropractic, despite the fact that modern chiropractors complete five years of university-level education and are tightly regulated by AHPRA. Today’s chiropractic care is evidence-informed, patient-focused, and safety-driven.

4. Outliers Damaging the Profession

A small minority of chiropractors may make overstated health claims or push aggressive treatment plans, which rightly raises concern. However, these outliers don’t reflect the standards of the majority, and they exist in every profession — including medicine and physiotherapy.

5. Philosophical Differences from Mainstream Medicine

Chiropractic care offers a physical, drug-free approach that focuses on spinal and nervous system function. For people more familiar with pharmaceutical or surgical solutions, this can feel unfamiliar — but that doesn’t make it ineffective.

6. Lack of Awareness About What Chiropractors Actually Treat

Many people don’t realise that chiropractors treat more than just back pain. Chiropractors commonly manage neck pain, joint issues (hips, knees, shoulders, ankles), disc injuries, sciatica, tension headaches, sports injuries, and pregnancy-related discomfort and much more.

The Bottom Line:
It’s time to judge chiropractic care the same way we judge any other health profession — on the individual practitioner’s skill, ethics, and results. At our Melbourne practice, we pride ourselves on a collaborative approach to provide balanced, evidence-informed care tailored to each patient.

There’s no such thing as a “bad” question, but to get the most out of your visit, here are a few things best avoided — or at least worth rephrasing:

❌ “Just crack me — I don’t need an exam.”

Good chiropractors will never skip a proper assessment. Adjusting without understanding your condition can be unsafe and ineffective.

❌ “I saw this technique on TikTok — can you do that on me?”

Social media trends don’t replace clinical judgement. Let your chiropractor decide what’s safe and appropriate based on your history and needs.

❌ “I only want one area adjusted — nothing else.”

While preferences are respected, pain in one area can stem from dysfunction elsewhere. A holistic approach often leads to better results.

❌ “I don’t believe in chiropractic.”

Chiropractic care is based on science and clinical reasoning, not belief. If you’re sceptical, ask questions — your chiropractor should be happy to explain your care plan and how it works.

❌ “Can you fix me in one visit?”

While relief can be felt quickly, lasting results usually need a progressive treatment plan. Healing takes time, especially with chronic or complex issues.

Yes. If you’re not satisfied with the quality of service during your consultation, we offer a full refund within 14 days of your visit.

❓What does the guarantee cover?

• Professional and respectful care

• Clear communication and treatment explanations

• A personalised approach tailored to your needs

• A welcoming, pressure-free environment

❓What doesn’t the guarantee cover?

It does not cover specific clinical outcomes. Results vary from person to person depending on:

• Your condition and health history

• Your body’s response to treatment

• How closely you follow care recommendations

❓What happens if I’m not satisfied?

Let us know. We’ll:

• Review your care plan

• Adjust your treatment if needed

• Refer you to another practitioner if that’s a better fit

When searching for a chiropractor near you, look for a registered practitioner with strong local reviews, clear credentials, and a clinic that explains its approach to care. Location, availability, and experience treating your specific concern also matter.