Chiropractors are primary healthcare practitioners, meaning we can be your first port of call, a referral from a GP for example, is not required. Much like you can call and visit a dentist for a check up, you can also call and visit your chiropractor for a check up.

Many of our patients refer to us as their “human mechanics”, we assess and treat the moving parts of the human body known as the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system refers to all the joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments in the body that provide supportive stable movement. Problems often arise when we move excessively or incorrectly which can lead to pain in any of these structures, this is what chiropractors assess and help to relieve pain. Causes of pain we see regularly are poor posture, improper manual handling, poor gym techniques or traumas.

Dr Michelle Bush (Chiropractor) giving a patient her report of findings.

At Axis your first appointment takes 1 hour, this begins with an in depth conversation with your chiropractor regarding your pain. This is followed by an examination of the area, chiropractors utilise a number of mechanical and neurological tests to determine which structures have been injured and require treatment. Your chiropractor will then discuss with you your diagnosis and individually tailored plan of management with the aim of; reducing the pain, improving  movement and restoring function. Your first treatment will also be completed on your first visit, if it is decided that further images are not needed.

Chiropractors use a number of techniques to achieve these goals; joint manipulation and mobilisations are just the tip of the iceberg. Numerous muscle relaxing techniques are used, from massage to therapeutic ultrasound. Our chiropractic team have also completed additional training in dry needling, and kinesiology taping. Once your short term goal of reducing pain has been achieved we maintain this with regular MOT type appointments. Going forward we aim to continue improving your overall . As chiropractors we are also able to refer you for private x-ray, MRI, ultrasound imaging, and DEXA bone density scans if they are deemed necessary.

Dry Needling of the upper trap

Did you know chiropractors must be registered with the General Chiropractic Council, ensuring you are being provided with the most up to date evidence based care. All 6 of our chiropractors are registered with the General Chiropractic Council and British Chiropractic Association. You can read all about our chiropractic team in our Spring/Autumn clinic newsletter and on our website. Axis’ team all studied for their Masters of Chiropractic at the University of South Wales’ Welsh Institute of Chiropractic for 4 years.

Chiropractic is suitable for everyone, from babies, to the elderly. Chiropractic is safe if you have ongoing health issues such as osteoarthritis or fibromyalgia.  We offer free “chiro checks”, if you have any concerns or queries before making an appointment.

Written by Dr Rhia Williams (Doctor of Chiropractic)