Treatments we offer...
The chiropractors in our clinic approach all patient problems with a 'problem solving' approach. To provide treatment which is above all else effective, safe, as long lasting as possible and which keeps patient discomfort to a minimum during treatment.
Below is a list of treatments we offer at St Albans Chiropractic Care. Please see the bio of all our practitioners to see which treatments they offer.
McTimoney Chiropractic -
A gentle and holistic form of chiropractic suitable for all ages. The aim of McTimoney chiropractic is to realign the skeletal structures of the body in a gentle but very precise way.
Diversified Chiropractic -
More a collection of other defined technique systems. The aim is similar to the Mctimoney approach but may employ techniques which specifically target very stubborn joints to increase their range of motion. This method usually involves an audible 'crack' from the targeted joint.
Other Treatments -
Neuromuscular re-education (NMRSM) -
NMR is a technique aimed at specific body areas to free the soft tissue from muscular adhesions/scar tissue. The technique is similar in some ways to deep tissue massage but tends to be much more focussed and methodical. The aim is to provide a solution to soft tissue injuries quickly and effectively. This technique can be uncomfortable but will only ever be administered to patient tolerance.
Graston technique -
This form of treatment employs any of 6 patented metal instruments specifically designed for the purpose of breaking down scar tissue/adhesions within the soft tissues of the body. Increased blood flow, healthier tissue repair and greater freedom of movement are the aims. Graston technique was the first and remains the most reputable form of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM). The instruments provide the clinician a great degree of feedback from the underlying tissue, allowing greater specificity and a high degree of control than some manual methods of soft tissue work.
Ultrasound -
Therapeutic ultrasound employs similar technology to diagnostic ultrasound but the aim is to provide stimulation to specific areas of soft tissue restriction via non-audible sound waves, which penetrate deep into the tissue causing micro-vibration within the tissue. The result is increased blood flow to the tissue, mechanical stimulation and increased temperature. Ultrasound is useful in both acute and chronic situations where other treatments may not be advisable or effective.
Dry needling -
Dry needling is similar in many ways to acupuncture, but the underlying principle of dry needling does not follow the traditional Chinese theory of yin and yang energy meridians. Dry needling focuses on pain relief and on the breakup of trigger points. Trigger points are areas of very sensitive muscle tissue which have become locked in contraction (like a very small area of spasm). Dry needling employs fine needles which are sterile, used only once and disposed of safely.
Exercises -
Rehabilitative exercise is often integral to a good treatment outcome and assists in making the body less likely to become injured in the future. Our recommendations may be specific to our treatment objectives or focussed on general health and wellbeing.