Manipulation, Mobilization and Traction
Procedure
This procedure involves the movement of joints within their physiological range of motion. It is often associated with an audible popping sound.
Risks
The risks associated with these procedures are typically minor if they occur, possible side effects include mild to moderate discomfort, autonomic phenomena such as dizziness, headaches and post treatment discomfort. More severe complications are extremely rare but have been reported, such as fractures, dislocations, disc herniation or progression of neurological symptoms and stroke. The reported risk of severe complications range from 1 in 1 hundred thousand to 1 in 2 million. This sounds concerning but to put this in perspective your chances of getting serious side effects or even death due to NSAID’s use is over 100 in 1 million. Be aware that all preventative measures and techniques will be used to limit risks associated to this procedure as well as screening for any signs, symptoms or conditions that may increase your risk as an individual (such as osteoporosis would increase the risk of fracture and therefore softer manipulative techniques would be used).
Please note that you should report any side effect to your chiropractor immediately so that interventions can be done if necessary. In particular please be alerted to any nausea, vomiting, loss of balance, headaches, changes in sensation to any part of the body, loss of muscular power and slurred speech.
Dry Needling therapy
Procedure
This procedure involves the insertion of a needle into myofascial trigger points (“knots” in muscle or fascia).
Risks
It is a safe procedure in most areas of the body but may result in bleeding, bruising, infection, localized as well as referred pain and autonomic phenomena such as dizziness and nausea. There is an increased risk when performing this procedure over the lung fields as it is possible for the needle to cause a pneumothorax (air trapped in the thoracic space that can prevent normal inflation of the lung). Symptoms of a pneumothorax include chest pain and shortness of breath.
Please notify your chiropractor immediately should this occur at any point after this procedure. All preventative measures and techniques will be used to limit risks associated to this procedure.
Electrotherapy
Procedure
This involves the use of electrical current to aid in the treatment of varying conditions. Devices that could be used in electrotherapy include, but are not limited to, interferential current and transcutaneous nerve stimulation.
Risks
There is risk of burns, electrocution, skin infection from the electrode covers and some discomfort.
Please notify your chiropractor immediately should any side effects occur.
Temperature Therapy
Procedure
This involves the use of heat or cold to aid in the treatment of varying conditions. Cold or heat packs could be used and in some cases devices such as ultrasound and laser.
Risks
There is a risk of burns and mild discomfort.
Please notify your chiropractor immediately should any side effects occur.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Procedure
This involves the manipulation of soft tissue utilizing the hands or in some cases varying devices or instruments. These devices include, but are not limited to, Faktr, Thumper and Shock Wave.
Risks
There is a risk of bruising, fracture, skin irritation and discomfort.
Please notify your chiropractor immediately should any side effects occur.
STRAPPING AND bracing
Procedure
This involves the use of strapping and/or bracing to aid in the treatment of varying conditions.
Risks
There is a risk of skin irritation, infection and discomfort.
Please notify your chiropractor immediately should any side effects occur.