FAQ's
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get as Chiropractors
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1. What does a chiropractor do?
2. Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
3. What can a chiropractor help with?
4. Is chiropractic safe?
5. How many visits will I need?
6. Can chiropractic help with back pain or Sciatica?
7. Do chiropractors treat neck pain and headaches?
8. What is that ‘cracking’ or ‘popping’ sound during an adjustment?
9. Do chiropractic adjustments hurt?
10. Does ACC cover chiropractic care?
11. How much does a chiropractic visit cost in Christchurch?
12. Where is Journey Chiropractic located?
13. How do I book a chiropractic appointment?
14.What should I expect/bring to my fist visit?
A chiropractor is a registered health professional who assesses the spine, muscles, joints, and nervous system. We use hands-on adjustments and other techniques to help improve movement, posture, and function. Chiropractors in New Zealand are trained for a minimum of five years (we pack as much as we can into these five years, in other countries the course can be up to nine years long!). We are regulated by the New Zealand Chiropractic Board.
We differ from Osteopaths less by techniques but more with our objectives, as they are often more relief driven, focus more on areas of pain and undergo different training. Some osteopaths practice a lot like chiropractors but have less of a nervous system focus, do not take/interpret x-rays and rely on longer, more expensive visits though their care is also very effective.
We differ from physios as physios are more rehab, exercise and injury focused whereas we do provide those aspects as chiropractors but we tend to be more hollistic rather than targeting a whole visit on the site of injury.
No referral is required. Chiropractors are primary contact health professionals, so you can book directly. Many Chiropractors also choose to work alongside a GP, physiotherapist, or other providers for a team approach to health.
People often see chiropractors for back pain, neck pain, headaches, posture concerns, sciatica, sports injuries, and general spinal health. Some also come in for regular check-ups to support mobility and wellness. Chiropractors assess each case individually to determine whether care is appropriate or if referral elsewhere is best.
Chiropractic care is considered safe when provided by a registered chiropractor. Like all healthcare, there are potential concerns, which will be explained before starting care. Most people experience only mild and temporary stiffness, similar to beginning new exercise.
The number of visits varies depending on the condition, its severity, and your health goals. Some people notice changes quickly, while others may need a longer period of care. Your chiropractor will outline a recommended plan after your assessment.
Back pain and Sciatica are some of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care. Chiropractors assess spinal and postural function and may use adjustments, stretches, or advice to help improve movement. If your case is not suitable for chiropractic, referral will be made.
If you are experiencing changes in your bowel and bladder habits due to your nerve pain as well as numbness/tingling in your groin/between your thighs please visit a Doctor/hospital immediately.
Yes. Many patients consult chiropractors for neck stiffness, tension, and certain types of headaches. You will be assessed to determine what the best course of action will be.
The sound is called cavitation. It happens when gas bubbles inside a joint are released due to a change in pressure. It is not bones breaking (like movies suggest) and the sound itself is harmless.
Adjustments are not usually painful. Tender spots can feel sore even with the lightest touch, it isn't usually the adjustment that creates pain, it is the pressure on those already tender areas. With an adjustment you may feel gentle pressure or hear a clicking sound. Some people experience short-term soreness afterward, which typically settles within a day or two, similar to the feeling of exercise.
Yes. Chiropractors are registered ACC providers. If your issue is the result of a valid injury that occurred within a year, your chiropractor can lodge a claim with ACC, which may cover part of the visit fee.
The range in Christchurch for an initial chiropractic consult is usually $110-$250. Private regular visits are $65 on average in Christchurch.
At Journey Chiropractic, initial visits are a set price of $115 unless discounted, while regular visits are based on a Koha system which is built to help those in need. Koha visits range between $45-60+ making us one of the most affordable options in Christchurch.
This allows patients to contribute what they can while still receiving the same quality of care.
We have two Christchurch clinics: Addington and Sockburn. Both offer free parking and are conveniently located.
Our Addington practice is at 351 Lincoln road on the ground floor within performance plus physio.
Our Addington practice is convenient to all central parts of Christchurch such as christchurch city centre, Sydenham, Spreydon, Riccarton, Linwood, Waltham, St Albans and Phillipstown.
Our Sockburn practice is located at 75 main south road Sockburn.
Our Sockburn practice is convenient to suburbs of: Wigram, Hei Hei, Aidansfield, Halswell, Kennedys bush, Riccarton, Rolleston, Islington, Templeton and Hornby.
You can book online anytime through our website, or call the clinic during opening hours. Same-day appointments are often available.
Please submit your completed initial consult form and/or ACC45 form if applicable (these will be sent to you prior to your first visit). Most clothing is okay, just try to bring shorts if you are wearing a dress or skirt so we can maintain your decency while checking the hips. Arriving 5-10 minutes early to allow for traffic is always a great idea, ensuring you are nice and relaxed before a visit.
When the chiropractor is ready they will take you through and ask you specific questions about your health, your goals, do all the relevant tests and then provide hands on care if appropriate.