Lower back pain can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, leaving people seeking options for relief. Seeking chiropractic care is one alternative that may come to mind, so find out why visiting a chiropractor can help. In this article, we will explore what chiropractors are, what they do for lower back pain, and whether or not a doctor’s referral is necessary. Additionally, we will address whether Medicare covers chiropractic care for lower back pain.
What does a chiropractor do?
Chiropractic care is a holistic approach to healthcare that aims to improve the function of the body’s musculoskeletal system, primarily the spine. Chiropractors utilise a hands-on approach to manipulate and adjust the spine, as well as other joints in the body, to improve mobility, reduce pain, and promote overall health.
Chiropractors understand that proper alignment of the musculoskeletal system is crucial for good health, and that misalignments can cause discomfort, pain, and even illness. By manipulating the spine and other joints, they aim to restore proper alignment and function, thereby reducing pain and improving overall well-being.
Do chiropractors actually help?
Chiropractors use various techniques to treat lower back pain, depending on the cause and severity of the pain. These may include spinal manipulation, mobilisation, soft tissue therapy, and rehabilitation exercises. Spinal manipulation entails the use of a hands-on approach to adjust the spine and other joints in the body, aiming to reduce pain and improve mobility. Mobilisation involves using gentle, non-thrusting movements to restore function and movement to the joints. Soft tissue therapy involves manipulating the soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments, to decrease pain and improve mobility. Rehabilitation exercises involve the development of a personalised exercise plan to enhance strength, flexibility, and mobility, ultimately reducing pain and preventing future injuries.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
In most cases, a referral is not necessary to see a chiropractor. Chiropractors are primary care practitioners, meaning that you can make an appointment with one directly, without needing a referral from a GP. However, if you’re seeing a chiropractor as part of a workers’ compensation claim, a referral from your GP may be required.
Are chiropractors covered by Medicare?
In Australia, Medicare covers chiropractic care only when certain eligibility criteria is met. For lower back pain, your GP may be able to refer you for up to 5 visits with a chiropractor under the Enhanced Primary Care plan (EPC) or Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM). Under either of these plans, there are limitations to the number of visits that are covered in a given year. Medicare also pays a set fee toward each visit, so there may be an extra ‘out of pocket’ amount depending on the total fee for each visit set by your chiropractor.
If additional visits are required, you may need to pay out of pocket or seek coverage from a private health insurance (extras) plan. It is important to note that Medicare does not cover all chiropractic services, such as routine chiropractic adjustments for general wellness or maintenance.
If you choose to see a chiropractor for lower back pain, you’ll first receive a comprehensive assessment and examination to determine what’s causing your pain. Your chiropractor can then recommend an appropriate course of treatment and advise you as to how you can help manage your lower back pain at home. You can book an initial consultation with our chiropractors at The Urban Alchemist here.
Chiropractor in Clifton Hill, Fitzroy, Brunswick
Offering Chiropractic services to clients from Clifton Hill,
Fitzroy and Brunswick plus many surrounding areas, including Northcote, Collingwood and Carlton. Our clients travel regularly from all over Melbourne and regional Victoria for therapeutic treatment, our practitioners are that good. Enquire today about visiting our centre in North Melbourne Today
Fees
- Initial consultation ~ 60 minutes ~ $100
- Return consultation ~ 20 minutes ~ $70
