McTimoney Chiropractic - Frequently Asked Questions
How is the McTimoney Method Different?
Developed by John McTimoney over 30 years ago, the McTimoney method is recognised for being gentle and precise and offering a whole body approach to chiropractic care. As McTimoney chiropractors we strive to achieve optimal health by treating the entire person, not just the area causing pain.
Can the McTimoney method help me?
The gentle nature of the McTimoney method makes it suitable for people of all ages. Its proven to be effective in treating the following conditions:
- Back, neck and shoulder pain
- Pain, discomfort and stiffness in joints
- Migraine
- Muscular aches
- Sports injuries
- Arthritic pain
What can I expect from my first session?
Your McTimoney chiropractor will first assess you general health, previous conditions and existing symptoms.
He or she will then conduct a physical examination to locate the problem, during which time your chiropractor will make adjustments using the light, dextrous, techniques associated with the McTimoney technique.
If at any point your chiropractor discovers or suspects a condition that requires medical intervention, they will refer you to your GP for further tests.
Normally your first visit can last anything between 30 minutes and an hour. During this time, a chiropractor will:
- Take a full case history, assessing your general health, previous conditions, and existing symptoms
- Ask your permission to conduct a thorough physical examination (this will include neurological and orthopedic tests, if necessary)
- Take or refer you for x-rays if they are needed
- Make adjustments using the light, dextrous techniques associated with the McTimoney technique
In some instances your chiropractor may need to ask you to remove some clothing. Privacy and a gown are always provided but do tell you chiropractor if you feel uncomfortable about undressing.
A chiropractor's first concern is to find out what is wrong. They will also check for signs of any serious conditions for which you would need specialist advice.
Treatment is a partnership between you and your chiropractor
Before your treatment starts your chiropractor will explain to you clearly:
- The results of your examination
- The proposed treatment plan
- The benefits and any significant risks associated with your condition and proposed treatment plan
How many sessions will I need?
Most people find between two and six sessions sufficient to address straight forward problems. The number and frequency of treatments will depend on a number of factors including:
- Age
- Extent of injury
- Duration of injury
- General fitness
- Stress (muscle tension and stress on you nervous system)
- Posture
The anticipated number of sessions will be discussed with you prior to treatment. Once you're up and running you can choose to schedule regular check-ups a few times a year to keep chronic conditions under control.
How will I feel after treatment?
During a course of chiropractic care you can expect to feel physical changes as your body realigns. These may include stiffness of tiredness, particularly after your first session.
Your McTimoney chiropractor will give you advice on aftercare and any necessary lifestyle changes to help you get the most out of your care.
It is important that you talk to your chiropractor is you feel worried about anything either during or after treatment.
Aftercare Advice
During a course of chiropractic care you can expect to feel physical changes as your body realigns. By practicing simple but consistent aftercare you will help yourself to recover more quickly and maximise the benefits of your chiropractic treatment.
What Can I do to help myself?
Your body needs 48 hours to adjust to the changes that have made to it is sensible to adhere to the following:
- Avoid strenuous exercise, housework, gym visits, gardening and long distance journeys
- Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol
- Take luke warm showers for a couple of days. A hot soak will soften muscles and ligaments, potentially undoing all your good work
- Think about your balance. Avoiding carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder, or sitting with one leg crossed over the the other
- Following any other specific advice your chiropractor has given you
Will chiropractic treatment benefit my general health?
At McTimoney, we believe that good health is as much about enjoying a positive sense of physical, emotional and mental well being as it is about being free from pain and disease.
You'll discover that small changes can make a big difference. When your body is well balanced it copes with the stresses of daily life more easily and is better equipped to deal with unexpected trauma.