Frequently Asked Questions

Chiropractors primarily attend to functional disturbances in the spine (and the rest of the skeleton) that prevent us from experiencing life at it's best. The global role of the nervous system as the master coordinator of all bodily functions is central to the work chiropractors perform. Pain and dysfunction of the spine especially cause the body to adapt and compensate in order to avoid further damage occurring. Often the patterns set up by our nervous system to cope with such challenges remain long after their usefulness has ceased. Chiropractors thoroughly examine the spine to identify specific injuries, and also to identify dysfunctional areas of the spine that we refer to as 'subluxations' in order to help things function more efficiently. Having said this, patients present to the chiropractor for assistance with a large range of problems such as: lower back pain, strains, sciatica, neck pain, whiplash, headaches, migraines, hip problems, pelvic problems, arm pain, tennis elbow, wrist problems, carpal tunnel syndrome,  leg pain, lack of energy, wry neck, foot pain, plantar fasciitis, sporting injuries, repetitive strain injuries, arthritic pain,  postural issues and many more.

This is a very individual matter. A unique treatment plan is devised for each patient. Patients come with differing goals for their care, and this can mean that different approaches are taken.  Some of the circumstances that make affect the amount of treatment required are: the patient's age, health status, actual diagnosis, the length of time the condition has been there, the presence of arthritic changes in joints, fitness, compliance with instructions, a multitude of complicating factors, the natural variance in each patients ability to recover and many more.

The most important point to make is that we will be focusing on getting you back to your best as quickly as possible. Your treatment will be explained to you, and together we will devise a plan that should work for you, and that you are comfortable with.

It depends why you come in in the first place. Patients see chiropractors for a variety of reasons. Some come in with discrete injuries which may benefit from a short course of care as they heal. Other patients can have permanent injuries that are helped by regular visits. Many patients tell us that life is just better when they attend for regular care, but it's always up to you. We would love to 'fix' everybody who walks through the door, but sometimes helping them when we know we cant completely 'fix' them is a great benefit. Some patients in evidently good health choose to see a chiropractor periodically just so they can have an eye kept on things - in much the same way as you may consult a dentist periodically. No-one in our clinic is ever pressured to come back - it will always be up to you. Naturally we will do our best to explain what we think is happening with you and make some recommendations with your best interests at heart. It's about understanding and collaboration.

This also depends on a number of things. Most patients who present in pain would find some relief of their symptoms - either immediately or over the next 48 hours. This varies widely, and sometimes people can be a little tender from the changes made during a treatment session, as your body gets used to functioning differently. If no change is seen over the course of about 3 - 6 visits (which is the exception), then the case is reconsidered. In more complicated, difficult or longstanding cases, it may take longer. This is a matter for discussion with the chiropractor.

No. You can make an appointment with a chiropractor directly as they are trained to assess and diagnose your condition, and to recognise when you need to be referred for some other type of care.

Under certain circumstances, a GP referral may be needed if you are to access care covered under Medicare or the DVA.

Most conditions are best assessed as soon as possible. It may be best to speak directly to the chiropractor before making an uncomfortable trek to the clinic, but usually even people in significant pain can find significant relief. Dr. McCann is always happy to speak to patients or enquirers with genuine questions.

The vast majority of our patients don't need to disrobe. If disrobing is necessary at all, we would provide  some way of protecting your modesty. Having said that, it can be helpful to have a think about your clothing in the morning if you are planning a visit later in the day. A tight skirt, or a business shirt that was once much looser might present a challenge. It is rarely a problem. If you're concerned at the time, please speak up. We value open communication - it helps us serve our patients better.

The clinic is equipped with HICAPS for direct claiming from your health fund, so patients generally only need to pay the gap on the day. Please note: 1) that as there are a large number of different levels of cover, you will need to check with your Fund if you wish to know what your rebate will be.  2) If for some reason the HICAPS system is unavailable or there is a temporary problem with your Fund, you may need to pay in full and claim your rebate from the Fund.

The Funds all have different rules about making a claim on the day. Some Funds require the claim to be processed on the day of treatment, while others can give up to a month to process the claim in the office. Patients can always return later the same day to process their claim in our office, or can elect to pay the full amount and then claim the rebate as a refund from their Health Fund.

The majority of Health Funds will have a printable claim forms of their website. Many Funds will also allow online claims for rebates once you have paid your account in full. Please consult your Fund for further details.  See our links page to find the HICAPS website for further information.

Yes. The practice has been a BUPA members First network Provider for a number of years. For more details, please check the BUPA website. There is a link available on our useful links page.

Many women experience back pain and other issues that may respond well under the care of a chiropractor during pregnancy. Naturally it is important to be aware of the ongoing changes and their implications when treating a woman during pregnancy. There are many ways in which a chiropractor may be able to assist women who experience back pain in pregnancy, and best of all, it is all natural and drug free. We are happy to spend time discussing the safety of care before proceeding with any treatment or other care options.

Finding an AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY CHIROPRACTOR can be a a big help. AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY CARE is available for both patients of the clinic, and patients who are new to the clinic, or who may see another chiropractor. Patients who usually see another chiropractor will be referred back to their usual chiropractor as soon as possible. Availability is not guaranteed, and we ask that patients call only between the hours of 7:30 AM and 10 PM. We will do our best to accommodate you or refer you to somewhere more convenient or appropriate.                                                                                                          Dr. Geoff McCann can be reached on  0438 617 632 or by email through this website.             

Please note that a modest out of hours surcharge will apply.

CONCESSIONS are not routinely available, however in cases of genuine hardship consideration will be discussed.

Please Note: After Hours Appointments are by arrangement only and depend on availability.

Health Fund Rebates may apply. The clinic offers EFTPOS and HICAPS facilities for your convenience.

The clinic is also registered with BUPA as a MEMBERS FIRST Provider, meaning that BUPA Members receive higher visit rebates.

It is considered unethical for a Chiropractor to offer 'Special Deals' or 'Time Limited Offers'. Consequently this is not permitted by the Chiropractors Board of Australia (the body that regulates professional practice - see our links page). If you are ever confronted with such a 'DEAL', you may want to ask some questions. We have a policy of openness and Dr. McCann is prepared to discuss any questions, queries or concerns with patients(within reason) with no obligation to sign up or pay anything.

Some practitioners 'encourage' patients to sign up in advance for 3, 6 or even 12 months of care in advance. It is understandable that this could could have advantages for both parties in certain circumstance.  This is NOT our practice, and the regulations of the Chiropractors Registration Board require that patients should always be offered a 'pay as you go' option, and that any pre-payments should not exceed a period of three months. Our policy is that payment is 'as you go' and expected on the day of treatment except under special circumstances, or by arrangement with Dr. McCann in person.

Yes, we have both EFTPOS and HICAPS facilities. The HICAPS system provides on the spot claiming for 98% of Australian Health Funds. To see if your Health Fund is a participarting Fund, check the following link to the list. Participating Health Funds

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