FAQ’s

What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a regulated, hands-on healthcare discipline that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders affecting the muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems. Chiropractors aim to improve overall health by addressing misalignments and dysfunctions in the body’s structure, particularly the spine.

A drug-free, non-surgical approach

Chiropractic care offers a complementary and alternative therapy to conventional medical treatments, providing a non-invasive solution that avoids the use of drugs or surgery. Treatment typically involves manual or instrument-assisted adjustments designed to restore proper alignment and function to the spine and extremities. These adjustments can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support the body’s natural healing processes.

Techniques and therapies in chiropractic care

In addition to spinal adjustments, your in balance chiropractors incorporate a variety of specialized techniques and therapies tailored to individual patient needs, including:

• active release techniques (ART): a hands-on therapy to treat muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries
• fascial abrasion techniques: instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization to address chronic pain and scar tissue
• acupuncture: a complementary therapy that can reduce pain and promote healing by stimulating specific points on the body
• laser therapy: a non-invasive treatment that promotes tissue repair and reduces inflammation
• electrical stimulation: often used to reduce muscle spasms and relieve pain
• exercise rehabilitation: customized exercise plans to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance recovery
• nutritional counseling: guidance on diet and supplements to support overall health and wellness
• lifestyle advice: recommendations on ergonomics, stress management, and daily habits to prevent future issues
• orthotics: custom arch supports for your feet to improve alignment
• compression socks: custom solutions to improve circulation
• kinesiology taping: application of elastic therapeutic tape to support injured muscles and joints

The benefits of chiropractic treatment

Chiropractic care is widely recognized for its ability to:

• relieve back, neck, and joint pain
• improve posture and spinal alignment
• enhance athletic performance and recovery
• reduce the risk of recurring injuries
• promote overall well-being by supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms

When to see a chiropractor

Consider visiting a chiropractor if you experience:

• chronic or acute back pain
• neck stiffness, tension or discomfort
• headaches or migraines
• limited mobility or joint issues
• sports injuries or repetitive strain conditions.

By addressing the root causes of discomfort and dysfunction, your in balance chiropractor can help you achieve a healthier, more active lifestyle!

Who can benefit from chiropractic treatment?

Chiropractic treatment is a versatile and effective form of care that can benefit individuals across all age groups, from newborns to the elderly. Whether you are dealing with pain, recovering from an injury, pregnant, or simply seeking to maintain your overall health and wellness, chiropractic care can offer substantial benefits. Here’s a closer look at the groups who can benefit most from this treatment:

1. Infants and children: chiropractic care can help address common issues in children, including:
   • joint pain from falls or sports injuries
   • developmental concerns that may impact growth and movement
   • improving sleep patterns and overall comfort by relieving musculoskeletal tension.
2. Adults and seniors: for adults and older individuals, chiropractic treatment provides:
   • relief from chronic pain, such as back and neck discomfort
   • improved mobility and flexibility, aiding in maintaining independence
   • support in managing arthritis and reducing inflammation.
3. Athletes: athletes at all levels can benefit from chiropractic care through:
   • enhanced performance by optimizing joint and muscle function
   • prevention of injuries through improved alignment and body mechanics
   • faster recovery from sports-related injuries or overuse syndromes.
4. Pregnant women: expectant mothers can find relief with chiropractic treatment, which:
   • alleviates back pain caused by changes in posture and weight distribution
   • promotes better posture and spinal alignment during pregnancy
   • prepares the body for childbirth by improving pelvic alignment and reducing stress on the nervous system.
5. Professionals and workers: for individuals with sedentary or physically demanding jobs, chiropractic care can:
   • address work-related strain, such as repetitive stress injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome
   • improve posture and reduce discomfort from prolonged sitting or standing
   • enhance productivity and reduce fatigue through better spinal health.
6. Animal care: chiropractic care isn’t limited to humans—pets can also benefit. Treatment for animals can:
   • improve mobility and flexibility, especially in aging pets
   • relieve discomfort caused by joint issues or injuries
   • enhance overall health and vitality.

How chiropractic treatment helps:

Chiropractors identify areas of dysfunction in the body and provide targeted treatments to restore optimal function. Their approach may include spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and lifestyle advice to enhance performance in work, sports, and everyday activities.

By addressing the root cause of issues, chiropractic care promotes long-term well-being and helps you achieve your full potential. Whether you seek relief from pain or a proactive approach to health, chiropractic treatment can make a positive impact on your life.

Why choose chiropractic care?

• non-invasive and drug-free: focuses on natural healing
• customized care: treatment plans tailored to individual needs
• holistic approach: addresses overall well-being, not just symptoms

Take the first step toward better health and discover how your in balance chiropractor can transform your life today!

What does chiropractic treatment involve?

Chiropractic treatment is a personalized approach to healthcare designed to address each patient’s unique needs. Because every individual is different, no two treatment plans are exactly alike. Your in balance chiropractors use a variety of techniques and therapies to support optimal health, reduce pain, and improve mobility.

Our chiropractic treatments may include:

1. Chiropractic adjustments and mobilizations:
   • focused on realigning the spine and extremities to restore proper joint function and alleviate discomfort.
2. Functional integrated medical acupuncture:
   • a technique combining traditional acupuncture principles with modern anatomical knowledge to reduce pain and promote healing.
3. Soft tissue therapies:
   • active release techniques (ART): a hands-on method to relieve tension in muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
   • fascial abrasion technique (FAT): targets fascial restrictions to enhance mobility and decrease pain.
4. Exercise rehabilitation:
   • tailored exercise programs to improve strength, flexibility, and overall function.
5. Nutrition and lifestyle counseling:
   • guidance on diet, ergonomics, and lifestyle changes to support long-term health and wellness.
6. Electrotherapy and laser treatments:
   • interferential current therapy: uses electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
   • laser therapy: helps accelerate tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
7. Kinesiology taping:
   • elastic therapeutic tape applied to support injured muscles and joints, improving stability without restricting motion.
8. Custom Solutions:
   • custom-made orthotics: shoe inserts designed to correct foot imbalances and improve posture.
   • custom bracing:  offers additional support for specific conditions such as arthritis, ligament instability or post-surgical recovery.
   • compression socks or stockings: offers support for swelling, edema and other circulatory issues.

Benefits of chiropractic care

• relief from chronic and acute pain
• improved mobility and function
• enhanced athletic performance
• support for overall well-being and preventive health

Whether you are dealing with an injury, chronic condition, or simply seeking to optimize your health, chiropractic treatment offers a holistic and individualized approach tailored to meet your unique needs. Book a consultation at in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic today to discover how chiropractic treatment can help you achieve your health goals!

What is an adjustment?

An adjustment is a highly skilled and precise therapeutic thrust applied to a joint that is restricted or not moving within its normal physiological range of motion. This technique is widely used in chiropractic treatment to improve joint mobility and promote overall musculoskeletal health.

When a joint becomes restricted, it can lead to discomfort, reduced mobility, and negatively impact surrounding muscles and tissues. A chiropractic adjustment helps loosen the joint, restoring its proper range of motion and relieves muscle tension.

What happens during an adjustment?

During an adjustment, a chiropractor applies a controlled force to the affected joint. You might hear a popping or “cracking” sound, which is caused by the release of gas bubbles within the joint—a normal and harmless phenomenon. The adjustment process is designed not only to restore mobility but also to:

• relieve pain and discomfort
• enhance muscle relaxation
• support better posture and alignment
• improve overall joint function.

Benefits of regular adjustments

Regular chiropractic adjustments can provide a wide range of benefits, including:

• pain reduction: alleviates discomfort caused by joint restrictions or misalignments
• improved mobility: restores the natural range of motion to joints
• muscle relaxation: reduces tension in surrounding muscles
• postural support: encourages better alignment and posture
• enhanced well-being: promotes overall physical health and functionality.

Are chiropractic adjustments right for you?

If you’re experiencing joint stiffness, limited mobility or discomfort, consulting your chiropractors at in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic can help determine if adjustments are a suitable part of your treatment plan. At in balance, we also offer chiropractic mobilizations or adjustments with an instrument called the Activator to meet patient preferences. These alternate treatment methods provide a gentler approach to chiropractic care, ensuring comfort and effectiveness. With tailored care, chiropractic adjustments can address specific issues and support long-term health.

Discover how your in balance chiropractor can help you regain your mobility and improve your quality of life. Schedule a consultation today to take the first step toward optimal physical well-being!

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see a chiropractor?

No, you don’t need a referral from your family doctor to visit a chiropractor.

Chiropractors are considered “primary contact” health care providers, meaning they are fully trained to assess, diagnose, and manage your condition independently. This allows you to book an appointment directly without any additional steps.

However, it’s important to note that some insurance plans or extended health benefits may require a referral from your family doctor for chiropractic treatments or services, such as custom-made orthotics. To avoid any surprises, check with your insurance provider to understand their specific requirements.

Why choose chiropractic treatment?

Chiropractic care is an effective and non-invasive approach to managing a variety of conditions, including:

• back pain
• neck pain
• headaches
• joint and muscle discomfort
• posture-related issues

Chiropractors focus on promoting overall health and wellness by addressing the root cause of your discomfort, rather than just alleviating symptoms.

Benefits of seeing a chiropractor directly

• Quick access to care: avoid delays by scheduling directly without needing a doctor’s referral.
• Expert diagnosis: chiropractors are trained to identify a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.
• Personalized treatment plans: receive customized care tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Steps to take before your visit

1. Verify insurance coverage: check with your provider to confirm if a referral is needed or if chiropractic services are covered.
2. Prepare your medical history: gather relevant information about your health, medications, previous imaging reports and any prior treatments.  At in balance, we email the intake forms when you book your initial visit giving you ample time to write a thorough health history.
3. Schedule a consultation or initial visit: reach out to your in balance chiropractor to discuss your symptoms and begin your journey to better health.

By understanding the process and ensuring your coverage details are in order, you can make the most of your chiropractic treatment experience.

What happens on the first visit?

What to expect on your first visit to the chiropractor

Preparing for your first chiropractic visit is simple and straightforward. To ensure a smooth experience, we kindly ask you to complete all emailed forms regarding your medical history and current concerns before your appointment. If you’re unable to do so, please plan to arrive about 10 minutes early to fill out these forms at our office.

Comprehensive assessment

During your initial visit, your chiropractor will conduct a detailed assessment. This includes:

• discussion of your concerns: we will talk about your current condition, symptoms, and goals for treatment
• review of your medical history: understanding your personal and medical background helps us tailor care to your specific needs. We believe in treating you as a whole person, not just addressing symptoms.

Physical examination

Next, we will perform a thorough physical examination consisting of ranges of motion, neurological and orthopedic testing, palpation of the joints and muscles and functional movement patterns, to better understand your condition and arrive at an accurate diagnosis. This step allows us to pinpoint the root cause of your concerns.

Review of findings

After the examination, we will provide a clear and concise review of our findings. This includes:

• diagnosis: what we discovered during your assessment
• recommendations: our proposed treatment plan designed to help you achieve your health goals.

Beginning treatment

Once we’ve reviewed the findings and discussed the treatment options with you, we will:

• ensure you are comfortable with the proposed plan
• obtain your informed consent
• begin your first treatment session.

Our goal is to make your first visit informative, comfortable, and productive. By understanding your unique needs and working collaboratively, we aim to set the foundation for improved health and well-being.

Is chiropractic covered by OHIP or extended health insurance?

Chiropractic care is an effective treatment option for a variety of health issues, but understanding how it is covered by insurance in Ontario is essential for managing costs.

Coverage by OHIP

Currently, chiropractic care is not covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan). This means that individuals seeking chiropractic treatment must rely on other payment options, such as private insurance or out-of-pocket payments.

Coverage by private health insurance

The good news is that chiropractic care is covered by most private health insurance providers. However, coverage details can vary significantly depending on your insurance plan. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Partial or full coverage: your insurance provider may cover only a portion of the cost of each visit. For example, some plans cover 80% of the fee, while others may have a fixed per-visit amount.
• Annual limits: most plans have an annual limit on chiropractic coverage, so it’s important to know how much you can claim each year.
• Family coverage: check your plan to see if coverage extends to other family members and if there are individual limits per family member.

Reimbursement and tax benefits

After your visit, your chiropractor will provide a detailed statement that can be submitted to your insurance provider for reimbursement. Additionally, chiropractic expenses not covered by insurance may be eligible for tax deductions as a medical expense. Consult a tax professional for guidance.

How to maximize your benefits

1. Review your policy: familiarize yourself with the specifics of your health insurance policy to avoid unexpected costs.
2. Confirm coverage before treatment: contact your insurance provider to confirm what is covered, including any limits or exclusions.
3. Track expenses: keep all receipts and statements for insurance claims or tax purposes and submit in a timely manner.

By understanding your coverage and planning accordingly, you can make the most of your insurance benefits while accessing high-quality chiropractic care.

Will I need x-rays?

X-rays: When are they necessary in chiropractic care?

X-rays (also called radiographs) can play a crucial role in diagnosing certain conditions, but they are not always required. Many musculoskeletal issues and other conditions can be accurately diagnosed through a detailed medical history and a thorough physical examination without the need for imaging.

When are they recommended?

If your chiropractor determines that radiographs are necessary to better understand your condition, they will refer you to your medical doctor for a prescription. This ensures that any imaging is performed safely and appropriately.  Your in balance chiropractors will then go over your x-ray report to ensure you understand the findings.

Chiropractors and x-ray training

Chiropractors receive comprehensive training to take and interpret x-rays. However, not every chiropractic office is equipped to perform x-rays on-site. Many chiropractors choose to focus on clinical assessments and collaborate with external imaging centers when necessary.

Do you always need x-rays?

For most patients, radiographs are not a routine part of chiropractic care. They are typically reserved for cases where:

• a traumatic injury may have caused fractures or dislocations
• there are symptoms suggesting a more serious underlying condition, such as infection or a tumor
• the patient has a history of severe arthritis or degenerative changes that require closer examination.

Your health and safety come first

The decision to refer for imaging is always guided by the principle of ensuring your health and safety. Rest assured that chiropractors strive to avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation while ensuring they have the necessary information to provide effective care.

For more information or to discuss whether radiographs might be necessary to properly diagnose your condition and therefore determine your treatment plan, feel free to contact in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic. We are here to support your journey toward better health!

Do I have to see a chiropractor forever?

The short answer is no—you don’t have to see a chiropractor forever. However, many patients choose to continue regular chiropractic treatments because it helps them feel and function at their best.

Personalized chiropractic treatment plans

Your in balance chiropractor will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and primary concerns. This plan will evolve over time based on your progress and how well you respond to care.

The benefits of regular chiropractic treatment

Chiropractic care offers numerous benefits that extend beyond just pain relief. Many individuals find that ongoing treatments help them maintain optimal health and prevent discomfort.  While every patient is different, some patients report less headaches, improved sleep quality and more energy.

Think of it like maintaining a car

Just as your car requires high-quality fuel, regular oil changes, and routine maintenance to perform its best, your body also needs consistent care. While far more complex than any vehicle, your body thrives when supported by healthy habits and preventive measures.

To function optimally, your body requires:

• Good Nutrition: a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.
• Regular Exercise: consistent physical activity to maintain strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health.
• Quality Sleep: 7-8 hours of restful sleep every night to recharge and repair your body.

Chiropractic care is another essential component of this wellness routine.

Chiropractic treatment as preventive maintenance

For many, regular chiropractic adjustments become an integral part of their self-care and wellness routine. These treatments help:

• alleviate tension in the muscles and joints
• address minor aches and pains before they become major issues
• support your body’s natural ability to heal and adapt.

By incorporating chiropractic care into your lifestyle, you can ensure your body remains in peak condition, ready to handle the physical and mental demands of everyday life.

Why some patients choose ongoing chiropractic treatment

While initial visits to a chiropractor are often driven by pain or discomfort, many patients experience such significant improvements in their overall well-being that they continue care even after their primary concerns are resolved. This ongoing care can:

• Enhance mobility and flexibility.
• Improve posture and alignment.
• Reduce stress and promote muscle relaxation.

Ultimately, the decision to continue chiropractic care is a personal one, influenced by your goals and how chiropractic treatments contribute to your quality of life.

Conclusion

You don’t have to see a chiropractor forever, but regular treatments can be a valuable tool in maintaining your overall health and well-being. Whether you choose to visit a chiropractor occasionally or make it a consistent part of your routine, the benefits of chiropractic treatment can help you feel your best and stay active for years to come.

What are your fees?

At in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic, our chiropractors pride themselves on providing the best in chiropractic treatment!

We are continually upgrading our assessment and treatment skills as well as staying up to date on the latest research. Not to mention our 20+ years of clinical experience! To properly assess and treat your condition, we provide longer than standard assessment and treatment times to ensure we reach your goals.

Therefore, since every patient will have a unique treatment plan, our fees reflect the length of time we spend with the patient. We may utilize multiple treatment strategies during your visit to address your areas of concern.

Adult/Student Pricing (6+)

Initial Visit – Your Starting Point

Both options include a full, detailed chiropractic assessment and report of findings.

1) Comprehensive Assessment

$200.00

Please schedule a 60-minute assessment if you have more than one area of concern or if you would like to add a treatment on the first visit.

2) Basic Assessment Only

$160.00

Please schedule a 45-minute assessment if you only have one area of concern or if you would like an assessment only.

Subsequent Visits – After you have had an initial visit

1) Adjustment Only

$ 55     (5-10 minutes)

Express adjustments to get you moving better and on your way.

2) Premium Chiropractic Treatment

$125     (30 minutes)
$  65     (15 minutes)

Our award-winning treatment option!

May include chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy (ART, fascial abrasion, cupping, flossing), acupuncture, modalities (laser, ultrasound, TENS), exercise rehabilitation or lifestyle counseling and re-assessments.

Children’s Pricing (under 6)

Initial Visit – Child

Includes a full, detailed chiropractic assessment, report of findings and treatment (time permitting).

$120     (30 minutes)

Chiropractic Treatment – Child

May include chiropractic and soft tissue therapy.

$  45     (5-10 minutes)

Animal Chiropractic

Initial Visit – Small Animal

Includes a full, detailed chiropractic assessment, report of findings and treatment (time permitting).
$100     (30 minutes)

Subsequent Visit – Small Animal

May include chiropractic and soft tissue therapy.
$  55     (Canine)
$  45     (Feline)

Custom Made Orthotics

Includes biomechanical exam and gait analysis to provide to your insurance company.

$475     (Foam Cast)
$500     (Laser Gait Scan)