Chiropractic FAQ
I’ve never been to a Chiropractor before. What should I expect at my first visit?
In your first visit you will spend 45 minutes with Dr. van de Wall and be given time to share your details about your complaint, any concerns you may have, and any treatment goals you wish to pursue. Dr. van de Wall will ask questions to determine the nature of your injury/complaint, figure out any triggering or relieving patterns, and determine what the examination and treatment should focus on.
After this, your issue will be thoroughly examined to come up with a working diagnosis, to determine what treatment(s) would suit you best, and to rule out the need to see your family doctor for further assessment. The examination is different for everyone, but typically consists of assessing functional movements you may be having trouble with, orthopedic testing, strength and range of motion assessments, checking appropriate muscles and joints, performing nerve tests, and troubleshooting pain-relieving exercises and stretches.
Following your exam, potential treatment options will be discussed and depending on the nature of your complaint, a workable treatment plan may be recommended. Once treatment options are agreed on, and you have consented to care, hands on and/or exercise therapy can begin.
Your visit will end with a brief re-exam following treatment, followed by debriefing on what was found, and recapping a potential plan going forward. Lastly, you may be given exercise and information handouts to take home to aid recovery.
Do I need a referral to schedule an appointment?
You do not need a referral to see a chiropractor in British Columbia, though certain extended health providers can increase coverage if a family physician referral is present. If you are unsure, contact your extended health provider or ask your family doctor for a referral for care.
How many treatments do I need to come for?
Recommendations largely depend on your goals for treatment, the nature of your injury, the length of time you have had it, and the severity or intensity of your symptoms. This means that treatment can range from one visit for a simple issue, a few weeks for an acute management plan, or even a few months for more complex and chronic issues.
I’m not sure if I should be seeing a Chiropractor or not for my complaint. What should I do?
The best advice in this situation is to get started by seeing any healthcare professional that you feel comfortable with who is qualified to properly examine your complaint and direct you further. This includes family physicians, chiropractors, and physiotherapists, to name a few.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Chiropractic care is commonly covered under extended healthcare plans. Coverage options vary between companies, so it is best to check with your individual company’s plan.
BC MSP also covers up to 10 visits per year for individuals who qualify for premium assistance.