What is a chiropractor?

A chiropractor is an allied health professional who offers treatment for muscles and bones conditions. Chiropractic treatment can include:

• chiropractic manipulation
• massage
• ergonomic advice (for example, guidance on how to set up your workstation)

Chiropractors are nationally registered allied healthcare workers. They can form part of your allied healthcare team, alongside physiotherapists or occupational therapists. Chiropractors are not medical doctors.

What conditions do chiropractors treat?

Chiropractors offer treatment for a range of conditions, including low back pain, migraine headaches and neck pain.

Are chiropractic treatments effective?

The effectiveness of any chiropractic treatment is based on many factors. These include the condition you are diagnosed with and your health status. For most health conditions, it is best to see your GP first. They will examine you and give you a diagnosis before they refer you to an allied health professional or start you on a treatment program.

Large studies have shown mixed results on how well chiropractic treatment works. Low back pain has been shown to respond to chiropractic treatment. It may help to reduce pain and disability in the short term and reduce pain in the medium term.

People may use chiropractic therapy for migraines, but neurologists often advise against it due to the risks. Research suggests it's not very effective for treating migraines.

The scientific evidence on the role of chiropractic treatment to treat neck pain is inconclusive.

Do I need a referral for a chiropractor?

Many chiropractors will treat people privately, without a referral. But if you have a chronic health condition that has been diagnosed by a GP, you may be eligible for Medicare-funded chiropractic sessions.

Your GP can work with you to develop a chronic disease management plan. They can also refer you to a chiropractor for up to 5 visits (as part of a team of healthcare workers). Read more on GP Management Plans.

What can I expect during a chiropractic session?

Chiropractors use therapies, such as manipulation and massage to prevent and treat problems with the musculoskeletal system (muscles and bones). Chiropractors often also provide lifestyle advice. They can guide you on ergonomics and how you move. Many chiropractors support wellness and prevention approaches.

Your chiropractor may also refer you to another healthcare practitioner if they are better suited to treat your condition.

What should I ask my chiropractor?

Here are some tips on questions to ask your chiropractor before your appointment:

• Why do you recommend this treatment? What are the potential benefits of this treatment?
• What are the potential risks or side effects associated with this treatment?
• What is the evidence for its effectiveness?
• How long will my treatment take? How many sessions will I need?
• Should I discuss this treatment plan with my doctor first?

It is also important to let your chiropractor know of any medical condition that may affect your treatment or put you at higher risk of side effects from spinal manipulation.

Let your chiropractor know if you:

• have a medical condition that affects your bones and joints, such as osteoporosis, arthritis or hypermobility (extra stretchy joints)
• take medicines or have a health condition that increase your risk of bleeding
• take medicines or have a condition that weakens the skin

Where do I find a registered chiropractor?

All chiropractors must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Registration Agency (AHPRA). They must be qualified, have insurance and take courses to continue their education.

You can check if your chiropractor is registered or make a complaint about a chiropractor on the AHPRA website.

Resources and support

Visit the Australian Chiropractors Association (ACA) — the peak body representing chiropractors.

For more information on how to manage your pain, visit Pain Australia.

For advice on managing back pain visit Musculoskeletal Australia.

For advice on managing migraine visit Migraine Australia.