Chiropractic Ottawa

The chiropractors at Back to Health are more than just neck and back doctors. They conduct full body exams to determine where imbalances exist and, when necessary, are able to treat all joints to aid in resolving conditions. Chiropractic care isn’t just for back pain; it’s for treating any joint that is not functioning or moving properly.

A Doctor of Chiropractic degree is evidence-based and hands-on training.  With over 4,300 hours of study of academic and clinical education, including studies in biological sciences, anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, psychology, neurology, as well as clinical and chiropractic sciences. Ottawa chiropractic is a primary contact health care profession emphasizing differential diagnosis, patient-centred care and research, with expert knowledge in spinal and musculoskeletal health.  Doctors of Chiropractic are the same as Medical Doctors with respect to examining and diagnosing problems.  If a Doctor of Chiropractic in Ottawa is not able to treat your condition they will refer you to the appropriate health care provider.

Chiropractic is a complementary health care profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of neuromusculoskeletal system conditions and the effects of these disorders on general health. In providing an emphasis on manual therapy including joint adjustment and manipulation, chiropractors keep patients healthy overall.

Education of a chiropractor

Year I & Year II

For the first two years of study, students build a foundation of knowledge, and learn how to integrate this knowledge into clinical cases. In year I, the program begins with the basic sciences (anatomy, biochemistry, biomechanics and radiation biophysics), which inform students about the normal processes in the human body. Applied courses (diagnostic imaging interpretation, health promotion, orthopaedics and clinical diagnosis) are added integrating learning from the basic sciences and leading students to chiropractic diagnosis. In year II, courses in physiology and pathology are added to the curriculum. These courses provide students with the basic understanding of mechanisms related to health, disease and other neuromuscular conditions, and how these mechanisms present in clinical cases. Throughout these first two years, students learn how to take patient histories, the skills that will form the basis for physical examination and treatment (chiropractic technique). They also learn how to critically appraise research so that, as practitioners, they can make sound judgements about new examination and treatment procedures (applied research and biometrics).

Year III

In year III students are exposed to an increasing amount of case-based material in order to prepare them for the role of student intern (Year IV) in the chiropractic clinic system. The basic sciences from years I and II are integrated into the clinical and diagnostic sciences, laboratory diagnosis, pathology, and clinical nutrition classes. A comprehensive approach to diagnostic imaging ensures students hone their skills in imaging interpretation and diagnosis. Patient management, ethics and jurisprudence, and emergency care further prepare the students for patient encounters in the chiropractic clinic system and for private practice.

Year IV

Students take part in a one-year internship in teaching clinics, on campus and in communities.

Ottawa Chiropractic Techniques

There are many different chiropractic techniques that help people reach their optimal health. Many methods complement each other and work best when combined. Each individual is different, and therefore may respond better to one treatment than another. As well, some people have a preference to which technique is used in their treatment. One technique is not better than another, merely more effective in reaching that individual’s specific goals.

Adjustments

A chiropractic adjustment is the use of a specific, controlled force in a precise direction, applied to a joint that is fixated, not moving properly, or subluxated. Adjustments help return the bones to a more normal position or motion, relieving pressure on nerves and strain on muscles.

The “popping” sound that is often associated with an adjustment is called a cavitation. It is the pop that occurs in a spinal joint when vertebral surfaces (facets) are separated to create a vacuum that pulls in nitrogen gas. Contrary to popular belief, it is not your bones rubbing against one another or “cracking.”

Diversified technique

Diversified technique is an amalgamation of many different methods. This technique integrates the patient’s detailed history with a thorough biomechanical examination of his or her nervous and musculoskeletal systems. The treatment protocol may include adjustments, physiotherapeutic modalities, stretches, nutritional supplements, orthotics and other aids.

Activator method

The activator method utilizes a hand-held instrument referred to as an activator. This instrument delivers a precise adjustment with consistent velocity. The activator may be used on any joint, however it is particularly useful in treating the smaller joints of the hands and feet. The activator method is also a good alternative for people who are sensitive to being touched, or for those with osteoporosis or arthritis.

Active Release Technique (ART)

Active release is a specific procedure to diagnose and treat soft tissue (muscle, tendons, fascia, and nerve) injuries. ART is a hands-on approach that incorporates the simultaneous application of tension and stretching of a muscle with patient assistance. This technique helps to locate and treat adhesions (scar tissue) between muscles, and between muscles and nerves, that may be limiting range of motion or causing pain and discomfort.

Pelvic blocks

Pelvic blocks are triangular-shaped devices that are used to relax pelvic ligaments and induce pelvic rotation. These blocks are placed underneath the pelvis while the patient is lying down for a determined amount of time. This procedure will help to reduce any pelvic unlevelling and associated low back pain.

Pelvic drop pieces

Pelvic drop pieces are sections of the chiropractic table that have the capability of elevating and dropping with the adjustment. This technique allows for increased velocity in the adjustment and greater motion induced into the joint. Pelvic drop pieces help to restore motion in the pelvis and reduce any pelvic unlevelling and associated back pain.

Toggle board

Toggle boards are devices that are used to complement a chiropractic adjustment. The boards are 5.5″ by 8.5″ and are most often used to help induce motion into the joints of the ankles, feet, and knees. The boards are placed under the joint to be adjusted. The device is raised up and then released during an adjustment. This helps to restore a wider range of motion in the joint.