Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Chiropractic Treatment?

Chiropractic is a natural form of health care used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. Various techniques are used to assist with alleviating pain and restoring proper mechanical function to our bodies. 

What can Chiropractors treat?

Chiropractors can help manage a wide array of musculoskeletal conditions such as:

• Neck Pain
• Back Pain
• Rib Pain
• Headaches/ Migraines
• Postural Complaints
• Sprains/Strains
• Muscle Soreness
• Arthritis
• Concussions 
• Post-Surgical Discomfort 

What is a Manipulation?

A manipulation is a highly skilled and precise movement applied to a joint of the body. A manipulation helps to free up a joint, relax surrounding musculature and therefore optimize function. 

What is the “pop” noise?

The noise heard during a manipulation is thought to be the release of gases, and therefore pressure, built up in the joint. Not only does this help the joint move more freely, it assists in the relaxation of surrounding musculature, provides optimal overall function and has the patient feeling better. 

If I don’t hear a “pop”, does that mean it didn’t work?

No. Hearing the pop does not have to occur to achieve the above effects following a manipulation. The chiropractic manipulation is performed at various velocities and amplitudes dependent on the chiropractors clinical judgement, expertise and patient comfort, which may or may not result in the pop noise. 

Therapies Available 

Please refer to Dr. Fogarty's  page for a list of therapies he offers.

Impulse Manipulation

Impulse manipulation is very similar to manual manipulation, however, it involves use of an instrument. It can be used instead of manual manipulation or in conjunction with it, depending on the injury and each individual's comfort level. It's use includes manipulation, mobilization of the musculoskeletal system, including the joints of the spine, extremities and soft tissue structures associated which such. A force adjustment switch is used based on doctor discretion and patient comfort.

Spinal Mobilization / Manipulation
The most frequently used chiropractic technique, spinal mobilization / manipulation is a controlled force with the chiropractors hands to a joint in the spine. This force moves the joint beyond its passive range of motion. The amount of force applied depends on factors such as the condition or age of the patient.  The goal is to improve mechanical function and relieve pain by doing so. 

Contemporary Medical Acupuncture

Contemporary Medical Acupuncture is a precise peripheral nerve stimulation technique, in which fine solid needles (acupuncture needles) are inserted into anatomically defined neurofunctional sites (for example: muscles), and stimulated manually or with electricity. Therapeutically, acupuncture modulates abnormal activity of our nervous system and in turn assists in pain syndromes and functional issues.

Short Wave Diathermy

Diathermy is commonly used for muscle relaxation by inducing deep heat directly to deeper tissues in the body. It is also used for sinusitis by relieving congestion and pressure.

K-Laser

There are three major benefits the K-Laser provides.  This infrared laser helps reduce pain, reduce inflammation, and enhance tissue healing—both in hard and soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, or even bones. The K-Laser is unique in that it is the only Class 4 therapy laser that utilizes three infrared wavelengths, allowing for deep penetration into the body to reach areas such as the spine and hip but can also treat areas not as deep such as extremities. 

Electrical Stimulation

Electrical Stimulation is used to accomplish a multitude of tasks with many different musculoskeletal injuries. Depending on your injury, different types of stimulation at different rates are used. This therapy serves many purposes ranging from decreasing pain and inflammation to improving function and strength.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)

PEMF is a safe and highly effective stimulus that accelerates recovery from many different ailments and injuries from sprains and strains to bone (fracture) healing. Pulsating electromagnetic fields influence cell behavior by inducing electrical changes around and within a cell including improved blood supply. With this increased blood supply comes increased oxygen which in turn stimulates and accelerates repair.

Ultrasound Therapy

Therapeutic ultrasound involves the use of sound waves applied to the area intended to treat at various frequencies. The following physiological effects are possible with the use of ultrasound: increased blood flow, increased collagen extensibility, reduced pain and muscle spasm, increased local circulation and enzyme activity and production of a mild inflammatory response to help with healing.

Miscellaneous Questions 

Can I use my insurance coverage?

Yes. We offer direct billing to multiple insurance companies. 

If I was injured at work, can I come see you?

Yes. We accept WSIB cases

If I was in a motor vehicle accident (MVA), can I come see you?

Yes. We accept MVA cases

Do I have to get x-rays if I come see you?

No, you do not have to get x-rays. X-rays will be recommended by the Doctors as they see fit. 

Can I bring my children in to see a chiropractor? 

Yes, chiropractic care is safe and effective for children. Modified treatment options are available.

Can I see a chiropractor if I am pregnant?

Yes, chiropractic care is safe and effective for pregnant women. Modified treatment options are available and can be determined based on individual comfort level. 

What type of education do chiropractors have?

Doctors of chiropractic are educated as primary health care providers with an emphasis on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system (the muscles, ligaments and joints of the spine and extremities) and the nerves that supply them. Educational requirements for doctors of chiropractic are among the most stringent of any of the health care professions. They have successfully completed a four year undergraduate education prior to completing four years of professional study at an accredited chiropractic college