1. My back hurts, what do I need, chiropractic, a massage or acupuncture?

Truly, it depends on the source of the problem. If you've been in a motor vehicle accident, a nasty fall or a work related injury, you want an assessment by the professional with the most training to assess your problem. Chiropractors are extremely well trained to assess, diagnosis and treat and make a treatment plan and make recommendations for other modalities, ie: massage, acupuncture physiotherapy, etc…

2. I just want acupuncture for my back pain, do I need to see the chiropractor first?

No, you do not need to see the chiropractor first. An acupuncturist is well trained in that modality. Having said that, typically, if acupuncture does not work quickly, it's because the joints of the low back and pelvis are "out" of alignment and may need to be corrected. This can be discussed with your acupuncturist.

3. I don't like chiropractic, if I see one, do I have to be adjusted?

No, a chiropractor can do a full assessment and do a treatment plan for you, that does not have to include manipulation. The treatment may include soft tissue work, including stretching, mobilization, trigger point therapy, etc. The chiropractor may and can order x-rays to further aid in diagnosing the problem. The chiropractor may make suggestions for seeing an acupuncturist, getting massage or physiotherapy, even drugs from your medical doctor if you find the pain debilitating in the early stages of treatment.

4. Acupuncture? What's that?

Acupuncture is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Simply, it's the artful placement of needles to restore health and/or reduce pain. The basic structure of treatment is based on the assumption that there are meridians, which are the equivalent of electrical circuits that run through and connect all body parts and organs, including the brain, one to another.