Chiropractic care is widely recognised as a non-invasive and drug-free approach to managing musculoskeletal issues, particularly those affecting the spine, neck, and joints. Whether addressing persistent lower back pain, seeking support during injury recovery, or maintaining overall spinal health, the question of how often one should see a chiropractor is frequently asked—but rarely answered with a one-size-fits-all solution.

For example, someone experiencing chronic discomfort may require more frequent visits than an individual seeking preventative care. A chiropractor in Castle Hill may tailor a treatment plan based on a patient’s specific condition, lifestyle, and goals. Understanding the factors that influence the frequency of chiropractic visits can help people make informed decisions about their ongoing care.

Understanding the Purpose of Chiropractic Care

Before determining how often one should see a chiropractor, it is important to understand the fundamental objectives of chiropractic treatment. At its core, chiropractic care aims to improve spinal alignment, relieve pain, restore mobility, and enhance the body’s ability to heal naturally.

Chiropractors often use manual adjustments, stretching techniques, and soft tissue therapies to reduce pressure on the nervous system and promote functional movement. While many people associate chiropractic care with back or neck pain, it can also be beneficial for issues such as:

• Sciatica
• Headaches and migraines
• Postural imbalances
• Sports injuries
• Joint dysfunction

Chiropractic treatment can be reactive (in response to pain or injury) or proactive (to maintain wellness and prevent problems). The intended outcome will heavily influence how often appointments are required.

Key Factors Influencing Visit Frequency

The recommended frequency of chiropractic sessions varies based on several key considerations:

1. Nature and Severity of the Condition

Acute injuries or severe pain often require more frequent visits in the early stages of treatment. In cases like whiplash from a car accident or a sudden lower back injury, a chiropractor might recommend two to three visits per week for the first few weeks.

Conversely, for more chronic but stable issues such as long-term postural misalignments or osteoarthritis, a patient might only need weekly or biweekly visits to manage symptoms and maintain function.

2. Stage of Treatment

Chiropractic care generally progresses through three stages: initial intensive care, corrective care, and maintenance care.

• Initial Care Phase: Focuses on immediate symptom relief. During this phase, more frequent sessions—sometimes multiple times per week—may be necessary.
• Corrective Care Phase: Once symptoms are under control, the focus shifts to correcting structural issues and strengthening the body. Visits may be spaced out to once per week or fortnight.
• Maintenance Care Phase: This long-term approach aims to prevent re-injury and support spinal health. Monthly or quarterly visits may be sufficient, depending on the individual.

Aurum Health Care, a provider of comprehensive chiropractic services, often outlines a phased treatment plan for each patient based on these stages.

3. Personal Health Goals

Patient goals play a central role in determining how often chiropractic visits should occur. Some individuals seek care purely for pain relief, while others pursue chiropractic as part of a broader health and wellness routine.

A person training for a marathon or participating in physically demanding work may opt for regular chiropractic adjustments to improve biomechanics and reduce injury risk. Others may prefer occasional check-ins for posture correction or spinal alignment, especially if they sit at a desk for long hours.

4. Age and Activity Level

Children, adolescents, adults, and seniors all respond differently to chiropractic treatment. Active individuals, such as athletes, may benefit from more regular adjustments to manage wear and tear, whereas a generally healthy, sedentary adult might only need periodic appointments.

Older adults with degenerative joint conditions may also require more consistent care to preserve mobility and manage pain, though treatment intensity is typically moderated to match age-related changes in bone density and flexibility.

5. Response to Treatment

Each person’s body responds uniquely to chiropractic adjustments. Some experience immediate relief, while others may require several sessions before noticeable improvements occur.

If a patient shows rapid progress, the frequency of visits can often be reduced sooner. However, if progress is slower or intermittent setbacks occur, the chiropractor may recommend maintaining a more regular schedule.

6. Lifestyle and Ergonomic Habits

Posture, work habits, sleep quality, and exercise routines all contribute to spinal health. A person who consistently maintains good posture, stretches regularly, and uses ergonomic furniture may find they require fewer chiropractic appointments.

Conversely, individuals with physically demanding jobs or poor posture may be more prone to spinal misalignment, increasing the need for ongoing care.

Common Chiropractic Visit Schedules

To provide a general framework, here are common visit frequencies based on typical treatment goals:

Treatment Purpose	Recommended Frequency
Acute Pain Management	2–3 times per week (initial 2–4 weeks)
Corrective/Restorative Care	1 time per week or fortnightly
Preventative Maintenance	1 time per month or every 6–8 weeks
Wellness and Performance	Varies—weekly to monthly, as needed

These are broad guidelines. The most accurate frequency will be determined by the chiropractor during an initial assessment, followed by periodic evaluations.

Chiropractic Care for Different Conditions

Back and Neck Pain

Back and neck pain remain the most common reasons people seek chiropractic help. If the issue stems from a recent strain or sprain, initial intensive care may be recommended for a few weeks, followed by reduced frequency as symptoms improve.

Headaches and Migraines

Tension-type headaches and migraines are often linked to spinal misalignment or neck tension. Chiropractors may suggest weekly sessions initially, with frequency tapering as triggers are managed.

Sports and Occupational Injuries

Athletes or individuals with physically demanding jobs often benefit from regular care to maintain optimal performance and prevent injuries. Depending on the intensity of their activity, weekly or fortnightly visits are common during training periods.

Pregnancy-Related Pain

Pregnant individuals may experience pelvic or lower back pain due to hormonal and postural changes. Chiropractic care tailored to pregnancy is often administered weekly or biweekly to maintain pelvic balance and reduce discomfort.

How to Know When to Reduce or Increase Frequency

Understanding the signs that indicate the need for more or fewer chiropractic visits can help patients monitor their own care progress. Here are some useful indicators:

Signs You May Need More Frequent Visits:

• Recurring or worsening pain
• Limited mobility or range of motion
• Postural regression
• Symptoms not improving after several sessions

Signs You May Reduce Frequency:

• Pain-free movement maintained over time
• Improvement in posture and function
• Ability to resume normal daily activities
• Chiropractor’s assessment suggests stability

Regular communication with a chiropractic practitioner is essential. Treatment plans are not static; they evolve with the patient’s condition and response to therapy.

Cost and Insurance Considerations

Another aspect that may influence visit frequency is financial. Some private health funds in Australia provide partial rebates for chiropractic care, though the extent of coverage varies. Those without coverage might choose to adjust their treatment schedule based on budget constraints.

Some clinics offer care packages or maintenance plans that provide more cost-effective options for regular chiropractic visits. Discussing financial expectations early on can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure continuity of care.

The Role of Self-Care Between Visits

Chiropractic care is most effective when paired with good self-care habits. Chiropractors frequently provide patients with exercises, stretches, and posture advice to support recovery between visits.

Incorporating these routines can not only enhance results but also reduce the need for more frequent adjustments. For example, a patient who performs daily mobility exercises and maintains ergonomic work habits may require fewer visits than someone neglecting these areas.

When to Discontinue or Pause Care

In some cases, it may be appropriate to pause chiropractic care. This could occur when:

• Symptoms have resolved completely
• Treatment goals have been met
• The chiropractor recommends a break for reassessment

However, discontinuation should always be guided by professional advice rather than assumptions about recovery. A sudden halt in care can sometimes lead to a recurrence of symptoms, particularly if underlying issues haven’t been fully addressed.

There is no universal answer to how often a person should see a chiropractor—it truly depends on individual circumstances. From acute injury management to wellness maintenance, the frequency of chiropractic visits is best determined by the nature of the condition, patient goals, response to treatment, and lifestyle factors.

A collaborative approach between chiropractor and patient ensures that care remains both effective and appropriate over time. While some may benefit from weekly sessions, others may only need occasional check-ins to maintain spinal health. The key lies in regular evaluation, open communication, and commitment to overall wellbeing.

 

Your posture influences your mood, self-esteem and how others perceive you. It also supports your body’s healthy function and structural integrity.

A chiropractor can help with a wide range of postural problems, including forward head posture (also known as text neck). They use adjustments, exercises and ergonomic recommendations to help you make permanent improvements in your posture.

Stretching

A chiropractor will use a combination of muscle releases and exercises to improve the posture of weak muscles. This may include stretches like chest openers and shoulder rolls to relieve tension from tight muscles that pull on the spine and cause poor posture.

Good posture, also known as a neutral spine, is important for more than just preventing back pain and injury. It also has a positive impact on our mood, self-image, and how we are perceived by others. In addition, research suggests that proper posture increases energy levels and can even prevent chronic health problems such as digestive issues.

Whether you have long-term poor posture or just want to maintain better alignment, the best approach is to use muscle releases, stretches and deliberate exercises that work in tandem with strength training. This will ensure that the weaker muscles have a chance to grow stronger while the overactive muscles are given a break, reducing tension and improving posture for the long term.

It is important to note that although stretching can be helpful in reversing the effects of poor posture, some stretching exercises can be dangerous, especially if performed incorrectly. Some common mistakes include using too much force, holding the stretch for too little time, or performing exercises that put strain on joints and ligaments. For this reason, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a licensed and trained chiropractic professional before starting a postural improvement program.

Strengthening

Posture refers to the body’s alignment and positioning. Essentially, good posture helps maintain the natural curves of your spine and keeps gravity from working against you. But over time, bad posture can lead to muscle and bone problems. Exercise and other lifestyle activities, with guidance from a Dandenong chiro can improve your posture by strengthening the muscles that support it

Poor posture is often caused by habitual and repetitive movements, which create tightness or weakness in specific muscles that pull your body out of alignment. Over time, these imbalances can increase the likelihood of injury and affect how well you move during workouts.

For instance, slouching at a desk for long periods of time can cause your spinal muscles to get tight and weaken, causing you to activate the wrong muscles while exercising, which leads to strain and injury. This can also decrease your range of motion, resulting in a lack of balance and stability, Gagliardi says.

To combat this, try practicing exercises that strengthen the core and upper back. A few examples include plank pose, which stretches and strengthens the shoulders and back, child’s pose, which stretches and lengthens the lower spine, and the lunge, which stretches and strengthens the hips and glutes. You can also reduce stress on the neck and shoulders by regularly adjusting your head position to prevent “text neck.” This means keeping it in a neutral position, not tilted down or up.

Reducing Tension

Posture may not seem like the most important health factor to focus on, but it can have a huge impact on how you feel and how well your body functions. Poor posture can lead to muscle, joint and ligament strain, as well as a decrease in energy levels. It can also affect your mood and confidence, making you more likely to feel stressed and anxious.

A chiropractor can help improve your posture through a variety of techniques, including spinal manipulation, stretching exercises and strength training. Spinal manipulation uses a controlled force to improve the alignment of the spine and reduce tension in muscles and ligaments. This can have a huge effect on posture, helping you stand taller and sit straighter.

Stretching and strengthening exercises can help you build the muscle and joint strength you need to improve your posture. This is especially helpful if you’ve been sitting or standing for long periods of time. It’s important to remember that it will take some time to correct years of bad posture, so be patient and keep practicing your new routine.

Good posture is a combination of mechanics and muscle, which means you need to work on both the bones and muscles that provide support and stability. By making small changes to the way you sit, stand and lie down, you can make a big difference in your posture and overall health.

Deliberate Exercises

Poor posture can put strain on muscles and bones, leading to long-term injuries and reducing flexibility and range of motion. With manual techniques, chiropractic can reset the bones and joints into a healthier position, easing pain and improving overall alignment. However, good posture requires active participation from the individual as well. A chiropractor can provide guidance and education, but it’s important for individuals to commit to posture awareness and incorporate recommended exercises into daily routines.

For instance, slouching interferes with the digestive system, which can lead to acid reflux and constipation. Additionally, slouching compresses the lungs and can impact breathing and lung capacity. It also has a negative impact on mood and may contribute to depression.

In addition to spinal adjustments, a chiropractor may use deliberate exercises, stretches and muscle releases to help correct posture problems. These exercises are designed to relax overused muscles and allow weaker muscles to strengthen. Combined with proper ergonomics, these techniques can provide a holistic approach to improving posture and overall health.

Despite the common misconception, it is never too late to address posture problems. Though progress will take longer for those with long-standing issues, consistent effort can still yield positive results and improve quality of life. With professional guidance, regular exercise and the commitment to posture awareness, individuals can reduce discomfort and increase confidence, even in advanced age.

Clinical Pilates, also known as clinical rehabilitation or clinical exercise, is a specialised form of Pilates conducted by physiotherapists. Unlike traditional Pilates, which typically takes place in group settings, Clinical Pilates is highly personalised and conducted one-on-one. This approach allows for tailored exercise programs that address individual injuries and physical needs, offering a level of customisation that is not possible in non-clinical Pilates classes.

Designed by physical therapists, Clinical Pilates focuses on rehabilitating injuries and enhancing movement patterns through targeted exercises. Each program begins with a detailed physiotherapy assessment to ensure the exercises are aligned with your specific needs and goals. By strengthening core muscles, improving spinal alignment, and reducing muscle imbalances, Clinical Pilates not only aids in recovery but also helps prevent future injuries, making it an ideal choice for those seeking effective and personalised rehabilitation.

Why Clinical Sessions Offer Targeted Rehabilitation?

Clinical Pilates is a form of exercise designed by physical therapists to help rehabilitate injuries and improve movement patterns. It can include specialised equipment like reformers as well as smaller props/equipment such as balls and exercise bands.

Each Clinical Pilates program begins with a detailed physiotherapy assessment to ensure your needs drive the exercise selection and progressions. This individualised approach sets you up for success in your rehabilitation and will help you reach your fitness goals much faster than group classes alone.

The main goal of Clinical Pilates is to strengthen the core muscles – including the deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles – to allow better spinal alignment, improve movement control and reduce muscle imbalances. This enables you to recover from injury and reduce the chance of future injuries.

Clinical Pilates sessions are conducted by qualified physiotherapists and can be claimed from your health fund as part of your physiotherapy treatment plan. Check with your health fund to see what rebates you may be eligible for.

It’s Not Just About Strengthening

Whether you have an injury that won’t go away, are recovering from surgery, or want to improve your day-to-day movement, Clinical Pilates is the way to go. The key difference is that it is implemented and tailored by a healthcare practitioner (such as a physiotherapist) to your individual rehabilitation goals.

This includes a comprehensive assessment, manual therapy, and movement education that evolves as you progress. Your physiotherapist will guide you through a series of therapeutic exercises to help improve your strength, stability, balance and core and pelvic floor strengthening.

The sessions are in small groups and taught by a physiotherapist with additional training in Clinical Pilates. The small groups allow for more individual attention and observation of each participant’s movement to help make modifications where required without risking aggravating your injuries or pain. This ensures you are making the best possible gains without putting your injury at risk. This one-on-one approach also allows your physiotherapist to progress the Pilates program as you improve, ensuring it continues to challenge and support your recovery.

It’s Not Just About Posture

Clinical Pilates utilises Pilates exercises and principles to encourage the activation of deep supportive core muscles to improve posture, flexibility and balance, while reducing back pain. As a rehabilitative exercise, it aims to address any deficits in spinal mobility and muscle strength, which are often the predisposing factors for injury recurrence.

Clinical sessions, such as those at Excel Body Health, are led by instructors with extra training in rehabilitation—usually physiotherapists. This enables them to conduct a thorough initial assessment and develop a personalised program that considers your specific injuries, physical limitations, and goals.

If you are a healthy individual seeking to boost your overall strength and fitness, then regular Pilates classes will meet your needs. However, if you have existing musculoskeletal injuries or are looking to prevent further injury, then the combination of Pilates and physiotherapy offered in clinical sessions will be much more beneficial. With a detailed assessment and a tailored program, you are more likely to achieve the results that you want faster.

It’s Not Just About Flexibility

Pilates is a fantastic form of exercise for healthy individuals looking to enhance posture, strength, flexibility and balance. However, when it comes to injury rehabilitation Pilates exercises need to be modified and targeted to the individual.

This is where Clinical Pilates differs from traditional classes. Unlike regular Pilates, which is done in group settings where multiple people follow one instructor and complete the same moves, Clinical Pilates is performed on a 1:1 basis with a qualified physiotherapist or exercise physiologist.

Your physiotherapist will apply their deep understanding of the body’s mechanics to tailor your Clinical Pilates program. They will ensure that you are working within your injury risk threshold, so you can make steady and sustainable progress towards your health goals.

Personalised Rehabilitation Advantage

In conclusion, Clinical Pilates offers a highly personalised approach to rehabilitation that sets it apart from traditional Pilates. With tailored programs designed by physiotherapists, Clinical Pilates addresses individual injuries and physical needs, ensuring effective recovery and prevention of future issues. The one-on-one sessions and detailed assessments provide a comprehensive and customised rehabilitation plan, making it a superior choice for those seeking targeted and efficient rehabilitation. Whether recovering from an injury, post-surgery, or aiming to enhance overall movement, Clinical Pilates provides the specialised care needed for optimal results.

When a person is in need of physiotherapy services, finding a clinic that they can trust can be difficult. This is especially true when the practitioner is not located in a convenient area.

However, with the right considerations it is possible to find a great physiotherapy clinic that offers the best treatments and care.

1. Reputation

Physiotherapy uses a variety of techniques and interventions including manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, education, advice, heat and cold, and electrotherapy to improve pain, strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, and endurance. It is an integral part of comprehensive healthcare and can help prevent future injuries by identifying and managing risk factors.

Several respondents from both private and public PT settings, particularly those in senior positions, expressed dissatisfaction with their ability to participate as advocates for the profession in discussions or actions that pertain to larger professional issues. They felt that their colleagues were often not aware of the scope and value of PT services, or were unwilling to make this clear in the context of health policy decisions.

Physiotherapy offers patient-centered care, meaning that the therapists listen to and understand their patients’ needs, goals, and preferences. They then develop and implement a treatment plan that aligns with these goals. In addition, the best physiotherapy clinics are transparent about their financial arrangements and insurance protocols. This helps build trust and long-term commitment. It also allows for consistency in treatment, as it means that patients can continue to see the same therapist over time. For more information, visit www.powerhousecanberra.com.au.

2. Experience

Physiotherapy clinics, including the esteemed physiotherapy Dickson, serve as priceless hubs for holistic healthcare. They play a pivotal role in improving a wide range of health problems associated with different systems in the body such as neuromuscular (the brain and nervous system), musculoskeletal (soft tissue, joints, and bones), and cardiovascular and respiratory. 

Typically, patients seek treatment due to an injury or to address a chronic health condition that impacts balance and mobility. Some may be referred by their doctor, while others self-refer themselves to a physiotherapist. Waiting lists for NHS physiotherapy can be long, so many people opt to visit private physiotherapy clinics.

When choosing a clinic, it is important to consider the experience offered by the staff. A pleasant and engaging receptionist will ensure that you get the best possible start to your care. Studies have shown that positive patient experiences lead to increased engagement in healthcare, such as following doctor recommendations and speaking up if something isn’t right. Moreover, it is also associated with better outcomes in terms of medical treatment and healthcare costs. Consequently, the quality of your patient experience is vital to the success of your clinic.

3. Availability

Many people benefit from physiotherapy, a physical therapy practice that uses various techniques to improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall wellness. These techniques include soft tissue mobilization, joint manipulation, and myofascial release techniques like massage or stretching to ease muscle tension, break up scar tissue, improve range of motion, and boost circulation.

Physiotherapy also provides preventive health benefits. By providing guidance on body mechanics, posture, and ergonomics, it can help minimize the risk of injuries in the workplace and during physical activities. In addition, it can also help improve lung function and respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Physiotherapy is an essential part of managing chronic conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. It can also be valuable during pregnancy and post-childbirth to address musculoskeletal discomfort and improve core stability. Moreover, it can be beneficial for patients experiencing major health crises like stroke or spinal cord injury by promoting recovery and improving quality of life. In addition, physiotherapy can be useful for elderly adults to manage age-related mobility decline and promote general wellness.

4. Facilities

Often times, patients need to visit a physical therapy clinic due to an injury or illness. They may be referred to a clinic by their doctor or they might seek out treatment on their own. Regardless, finding a clinic that is clean and sanitary is important to ensure that the treatment is safe. Additionally, it is important to check the facilities to see if they offer amenities like hot tubs or exercise equipment.

Another consideration is the cost of services. It is crucial to find a clinic that is affordable and compatible with your health insurance. A reputable clinic will be transparent about its financial arrangements and will communicate clearly with you about your coverage.

A good physiotherapy clinic should be located in an area that is easy to access. For instance, it should be near your home or workplace. This will enable you to adhere to a regular schedule of appointments, an essential element of efficacious rehabilitation. It should also be within a facility that offers ample parking and has a convenient location.

5. Cost

In the current market, operating costs can have a significant impact on the financial stability of physiotherapy clinics. The most important costs to consider include rent or mortgage, salaries, equipment, and utilities. These expenses will all have an impact on how much patients will pay for physiotherapy services.

The cost of a physiotherapy visit can vary widely depending on the location, treatment options and therapists. Some therapists have higher rates than others, as well as extra qualifications or experience. In-home therapy can be more expensive than a clinic visit, as therapists have to travel and spend more time.

Health insurance also influences the cost of a visit, as each plan has its own fee schedule and different benefits. Many plans have a deductible amount that the patient pays out of pocket before the insurance company covers any costs, and some require co-pays or coinsurance.

Marketing costs can also add up, as physiotherapy practices must invest in promoting their services to new clients. This can include the cost of digital and print advertising, as well as promotional materials like brochures and flyers.

 

Whether it’s RICE therapy (rest, ice, compression and elevation) or more advanced treatment options like surgery, sports podiatrists are highly skilled at the diagnosis and management of injuries. They also provide invaluable advice on injury prevention and how to maintain foot health.

Performing regular foot and ankle check-ups can help prevent minor issues from developing into severe injuries that affect your athletic performance.

Preventive Care

Preventive care is healthcare that aims to reduce the risk of a person getting sick or injured. It isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather a process that considers a person’s unique health history and lifestyle, as well as factors that might increase their risk.

Almost everyone can benefit from preventive care, but it is especially important for people who participate in sports and exercise. These types of activities can cause injuries, and those injuries can range from minor to severe. A minor injury might include a bruise or sprain. More serious injuries might require surgery or physical therapy.

Many sports injuries can be prevented by properly warming up and cooling down before and after a workout. This helps the body to increase and decrease its heart rate gradually, so muscles are more flexible.

In addition, people should make sure they are using proper form when exercising to help reduce the amount of stress on their muscles and joints. People should also avoid sudden increases in the intensity and duration of physical activity.

Children are particularly at risk for sports injuries, since they don’t always know their own limits. This is why it is important to teach them the basics of safety and how to play their sport safely. Any time a child develops point tenderness over a bone, it should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Diagnosis

Podiatrists have an in-depth understanding of foot and ankle anatomy and biomechanics, which allows them to accurately assess injuries. They also have the knowledge and tools to order diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, if needed.

Once an injury is identified, sports podiatrists can develop and implement a treatment plan. This includes educating athletes on foot and ankle care, proper warm-up and stretching techniques, and injury prevention strategies. They can also give advice on appropriate footwear and orthotic aids to maximize performance while minimizing injury risk.

The goal is to return injured athletes back to their sport as soon as possible, but this isn’t always easy. Many athletes don’t realize the importance of addressing pain immediately, and continue to play or exercise even when they are in pain. This may cause further damage, prolong recovery, and increase the chances of future injury.

Throughout the treatment process, podiatrists work closely with other members of the team, including physical therapists, athletic trainers, coaches, physicians, and Ballarat psychological services. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive support, effective communication, and coordination of treatment plans tailored to athletes’ needs. Dr. Sam Balson, who has worked with two professional teams, finds this personal connection the most rewarding aspect of her job, sharing that athletes express great gratitude for their treatment, which often includes the care provided by Ballarat remedial massage therapists.

Treatment

Participation in sports often comes with a heightened risk of injuries, particularly those involving the feet and lower limbs. Foot and ankle injuries can range in severity from mild issues like blisters and calluses to severe conditions such as sprains, fractures, and dislocations. Such injuries can significantly impact athletic performance and impose limitations on an athlete’s level of activity.

Podiatrists are the foot and ankle specialists you’ve been looking for. They not only provide effective treatment to eliminate pain and restore full range of motion from sports injuries, but their expertise extends far beyond. Searching for “podiatry near me” can connect you with these valuable resources who can offer personalized advice on preventing future injuries. From recommending proper footwear to guiding you through proper exercise techniques, podiatrists can help you stay active and pain-free.

Treatment for a sports injury typically begins with a thorough evaluation of the affected area. This allows a podiatrist to identify any imbalances or predisposing factors that may contribute to future injuries. A podiatrist will also evaluate a patient’s movement patterns, training habits, and footwear to determine if they can be improved to prevent future injuries.

Depending on the severity of the injury, a podiatrist will likely recommend treatment modalities such as RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) therapy to manage pain and swelling and facilitate healing. They may also recommend a splint or cast to immobilize the injured area. They can also prescribe physical therapy to help rehabilitate the muscles and joints of the foot and ankle, helping them return to full function and reduce the risk of future injury.

Rehabilitation

Athletes are at a heightened risk for injuries to their feet and lower extremities, especially in sports that require substantial footwork, running, jumping, or swift directional changes. These injuries can range from the mild to the severe, and if left untreated can impact an athlete’s ability to continue performing at their best or even participate in their sport at all.

Podiatrists are specially trained to recognize and treat all types of foot and ankle injuries related to sports. In the early stages of rehabilitation, podiatrists focus on reducing pain and inflammation, often utilizing the principles of RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) therapy. They may also recommend further medical interventions like wrap bandages or braces to provide additional support and stability, thereby decreasing the risk for further injury and facilitating recovery.

The next phase of rehabilitation typically involves manual physical therapy to restore joint and muscle function, reduce pain, and prevent future injury. In addition to hand-on treatment and therapeutic exercises, podiatrists can also use modalities such as electrical stimulation or ultrasound.

Athletes may need custom orthotics to support their injured foot and ankle, which can be fitted by a podiatrist. As part of their treatment, they can also be educated on proper footwear to help prevent future injuries. Additionally, incorporating gait analysis techniques into their care can identify abnormal foot and lower extremity mechanics that may predispose athletes to injury.

Kidney stones can be painful but most are small enough to pass without permanent damage. Doctors treat them by asking patients to drink plenty of fluids, especially water.

They also recommend avoiding foods that are high in oxalate, such as rhubarb, spinach, beets, chocolate and nuts. Doctors can also perform a procedure called ureteroscopy to remove large stones or multiple kidney stones.

Symptoms

If you’re experiencing severe pain or have a kidney stone that won’t pass, a urological surgeon in Melbourne is here to assist you. From advising on hydration and urine straining to providing pain relief medications, they will ensure comprehensive care tailored to your needs. Small stones typically pass within 31 to 45 days without causing lasting harm, but for complex cases, trust our expertise to navigate your treatment journey effectively.

The pain from a kidney stone often comes and goes as the stone moves around inside your urinary tract. The pain may be felt along your side, belly and groin. It may get worse when you try to urinate or when the stone hits a nerve in your lower back. You may have to urinate frequently, especially if the stone is in your ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidney to the bladder).

Your healthcare provider will examine you and do blood tests to check your kidney function, find out how many kidney stones you have and how big they are. They will also use imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans to see the location, size and shape of your kidney or ureter stones. Your provider may also do a procedure called a ureteroscopy, or if the stone is in your bladder, a cystoscope, to remove it. They may also give you a medicine called an alpha blocker, such as tamsulosin (Flomax) or nifedipine (Adalat and Procardia), to relax your ureter and make it easier for the stone to pass.

Diagnosis

The first step in diagnosing kidney stones is for your doctor to collect a urine sample from you. They may also do a blood test to check for substances related to stone formation, such as calcium, oxalate and uric acid. They can also do imaging tests, such as an abdominal X-ray, a computerized tomography (CT) scan or an ultrasound. They might use a technique called shock wave lithotripsy, which uses shock waves to break apart stones. Then they can send the fragments through the tube that carries urine out of the body, the urethra. They will X-ray the tube afterwards to see if the fragments have passed or got stuck in your urinary tract.

If you have severe pain in your belly area or on one side of your back (abdomen), a fever, chills, a loss of appetite, vomiting or other symptoms, get medical help right away. You should also seek care if you have signs of a urinary tract infection, such as pain when you urinate or blood in your urine.

If you have small kidney stones that don’t cause symptoms, your family doctor can usually manage them. But if you have a large kidney stone that causes pain or other problems, your doctor will refer you to a specialist in disorders of the urinary tract (urologist or nephrologist). You can lower your risk for future stones by drinking enough fluids to produce about two quarts of urine a day.

Treatment

If the stone is not blocking urine flow, doctors may decide to monitor your symptoms and wait to see if it passes on its own. If that is not possible, your doctor can test your blood to look for substances found in kidney stones and do imaging tests (an ultrasound or CT scan) of the kidneys and urinary tract to find the stone and see how large it is.

The most common treatment is a noninvasive procedure called lithotripsy, in which sound waves break the stone into tiny fragments that your body naturally passes in the urine. You can have lithotripsy done in your doctor’s office or a hospital.

Other treatments can be used for specific types of kidney stones. For example, struvite stones can be prevented by avoiding foods high in purines, such as shellfish and meat, which increase the acidity of urine. Cystine stones can be prevented by getting enough protein in your diet, and by treating a rare condition called cystinuria, which causes too much cystine to leak from the kidneys into the urine.

Kidney stones are more likely to form if you don’t drink enough water, so drinking plenty of fluids is the main treatment for most cases. Over-the-counter pain medicines, such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, can help with discomfort. If you pass a kidney stone, save it so your doctor can test it to learn what kind it is, which can help prevent future kidney stones.

Prevention

The best treatment for kidney stones is to prevent them. Changes in diet can reduce your chances of getting them. Eat a lot of vegetables and fruits. Drink plenty of fluids — especially water — every day. This keeps your urine diluted, which prevents waste products from becoming too concentrated. Avoid foods and drinks that are high in sodium (such as cola beverages, fast food, and salty snacks). Eat less protein from animals and more from vegetables, beans, and soy products. Avoid high-protein foods that are high in oxalates, which may increase your risk for calcium oxalate stones. Examples of oxalate-rich foods are rhubarb, beets, chocolate, spinach, and certain supplements.

Kidney stones that are small often pass on their own, especially if you drink enough liquids. Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, or enough to produce 2 liters of urine. Fluids can include juice, tea, and coffee.

Larger stones may need treatment, depending on their size and whether they cause symptoms or blockage. Your doctor can use shock waves or a procedure called ureteroscopy to break up or remove them. They can also give you a medicine that relaxes the muscles in your ureters, which helps the stones pass. This medicine is usually tamsulosin (Flomax), a type of alpha blocker. Another medication, nifedipine (Adalat or Procardia), can also relax the muscles in your ureters.

Perera Urology
Suite 118/55 Flemington Rd,
North Melbourne VIC 3051
1300 884 673
www.pereraurology.com

Remedial massage is a hands-on therapy that treats damaged muscles. It’s especially useful for soft tissue injuries and can reduce pain and improve flexibility.

The techniques used in remedial massage help the body relax, lowering muscle tone and decreasing tension. They also stimulate the brain to release feel-good hormones, increasing feelings of well-being.

Relieves Pain

Massage Pascoe Vale focuses on breaking down adhesions (fibrous tissue that builds up in soft tissues due to trauma, injury and overuse). A remedial massage therapist uses deeper massage techniques to break down these adhesions which alleviate pain, rehydrates the tissues and encourages the release of feel good hormones. This enhances feelings of calmness, contentment and happiness.

Many people suffer from headaches and migraines that are caused by tension in the head, neck and shoulders. Remedial massage focuses on these problem areas and relieves the tension that is causing the headaches and migraines. It also identifies any muscle weakness that may be contributing to the pain and treats it accordingly.

Another way that remedial massage helps reduce pain is by relieving trigger points. Trigger points are painful knots in the muscles that are usually felt as a twitch when touched. Remedial massage can help to release these trigger points by applying pressure to them until the twitch stops and the myofascial pain is reduced.

Remedial massage can also be used to improve flexibility and mobility in the body. This is done by using techniques such as PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) stretching which involves a therapist acting as your partner and helping to stretch the muscles in a series of contractions and holds. This technique helps to improve muscle flexibility and joint mobility and increases strength, stability and range of movement.

Reduces Stress

Having regular remedial massages decreases stress levels by relaxing the body and mind. Remedial massage also improves lymphatic drainage and boosts the body’s natural production of disease-fighting hormones. It’s been shown to stimulate natural killer cells, increase the number of lymphocytes and reduce the inflammatory response.

Unlike relaxation massage, remedial massage uses deeper techniques to target specific areas of the body that are tight, knotted or immobile. This is often used to treat a range of conditions including muscle strains, neck pain, back pain and sciatica, but it can also be used for sports injuries, arthritis and other chronic and acute ailments.

A remedial massage therapist will first ask about your general health and current symptoms. They will then observe your posture and run through a range of assessments to get a better understanding of the issue. This may include range of motion testing, functional tests and specialised orthopaedic assessment.

A good remedial massage therapist will use their knowledge of the body’s anatomy to identify any problem areas and then use a range of techniques including myofascial release, trigger point therapy and neuromuscular facilitation to ease these areas. This helps to break down adhesions and increases soft tissue elasticity, resulting in improved flexibility. It also helps to relieve tension and stiffness while promoting healing and improving strength, stability and mobility.

Increases Blood Circulation

In order for the body to distribute nutrients and oxygen to every cell, the circulatory system must be working well. Remedial massage uses techniques that stimulate the flow of blood and lymph throughout the body. The result is improved muscular flexibility and range of motion. It can also reduce pain and discomfort in the joints.

The first thing the therapist will do is ask questions about your health history and get a feel for how your body moves. They will then perform some orthopaedic and limb tests to assess your strength, movement, and any injuries or issues that might need to be addressed.

Remedial massage works by manipulating the soft tissue of the body to increase the body’s circulation. This is achieved through a technique called vasodilation whereby the therapist widens the body’s blood vessels to allow for easier flow.

As a result, the therapist will ease muscle tension that causes headaches and migraines. It can also help to release the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline, resulting in an overall feeling of wellbeing.

Improved circulation also increases white blood cells in the body, heightening immunity by distributing them to the varying parts of the body. In addition, the reduced level of stress enables the mind to function better and therefore improves mental clarity and concentration. This will then lead to a reduction in stress-related illnesses, such as high blood pressure.

Increases Elasticity

Remedial massage stimulates the body’s circulatory system to improve blood flow which helps release tight and overworked muscles. As the muscle fibres relax they increase in elasticity, which reduces pain and tension.

The friction of remedial massage causes a warm sensation which encourages the skin to produce oil and lubricate itself, improving flexibility. This also aids in preventing dry skin and assists with the body’s natural healing process. Regular remedial massage can also help prevent recurring injuries.

In addition to easing pain, massage promotes the release of feel good hormones, including endorphins, reducing the production of cortisol which is associated with stress, anxiety and depression. Keeping the body in a relaxed and happy state is vital for overall health and well-being.

Remedial massage also aims to realign joints that have become misaligned, this can be the result of an injury or as a normal part of ageing. The improved mobility in the joints helps alleviate pain and prevents further damage by decreasing pressure on surrounding tissues.

The first part of your remedial massage will involve a health history, observation and some range of motion or joint tests. Your therapist will then perform the remedial massage treatment. Following your session your therapist will advise on exercises, stretches or other treatments to speed up the healing process and keep you feeling better for longer.