Choosing a Chiropractor: Questions Worth Asking Before Your First Visit

Choosing a chiropractor is a personal decision, and it is reasonable to ask questions first. These are the questions we think are worth asking any chiropractor, with our own answers at Chadstone Chiropractic in Oakleigh East.

Are they registered?

Chiropractors in Australia are registered with Ahpra, and you can check any practitioner on the public register at ahpra.gov.au. All three of our chiropractors are registered. They are also members of the Gonstead Chiropractic Society (Australia), which keeps its own public register at gonstead.com.au.

What will happen at the first visit?

Ask for the steps in advance. Ours is the Gonstead system, which starts with an assessment before anything is adjusted. It has seven steps: history, visualisation, instrumentation, static palpation, motion palpation, neurological and orthopaedic tests, and radiographic analysis.

Will I need X-rays, and why?

It is reasonable to ask when X-rays are taken, why, and what they will be used for. At Chadstone Chiropractic, weight-bearing spinal X-rays are taken onsite with digital equipment, usually during the first consultation and where clinically appropriate. We do not take X-rays during pregnancy.

How many visits should I expect?

Ask how many visits are recommended and how you will decide together when to stop. How many visits are recommended depends on the individual and on what the assessment finds. Our approach is "find it, fix it, leave it alone," and the aim is to avoid visits that aren't clinically necessary.

What will it cost, and what can I claim?

Ask about fees and rebates before you book. HICAPS is available on site, so you can claim your health fund rebate at the time of your visit. Rebates differ depending on which of our chiropractors you see, so please mention your fund when you book.

How will they work with my GP?

No referral is needed to book a first appointment, and we also see patients referred under a GP chronic condition management plan. If chiropractic care isn't appropriate, or something is outside our scope, we will say so and refer you on. If you have sudden or severe symptoms, new numbness or weakness, difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels, or pain after a significant fall or accident, see your GP or go to an emergency department first.

Ask us

To ask us any of these questions, call (03) 9568 0155 or book an appointment. Results vary from person to person and can't be guaranteed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?

No referral is needed to book a first appointment. If you have a GP chronic condition management plan, you are welcome to bring it.

How do I check that a chiropractor is registered?

Search the public register at ahpra.gov.au. All Australian chiropractors must be registered with Ahpra.

When are X-rays taken?

At Chadstone Chiropractic, X-rays are usually taken during the first consultation if clinically appropriate. Not every patient needs one.

What if I need a doctor rather than a chiropractor?

Some symptoms need medical attention first. If an assessment suggests that chiropractic care isn't appropriate, or that something is outside our scope, we will say so and refer you on. If you are unsure, check with your GP before booking.