In Quebec, chiropractors receive a University training of 5 years. As in medicine,
the D.E.C. (Diplôme d'Étude Collégiale) is necessary. Thus, to become a
chiropractor requires similar training as is needed in medicine. In Quebec, the
chiropractic Doctorate program is given at the Université du Québec in
Trois-Rivières (UQTR). Most chiropractors graduating today also have an
undergraduate university degree.
2. What to expect during a first visit?
When you consult a chiropractor, he must find out if your condition is treatable
and possibly reversible by natural means.
He needs to find out about your past and present health history.
He will proceed with an orthopedic, neurological and chiropractic exam.
He will take x-rays (if necessary).
Then he will be able to make a chiropractic diagnosis.
He will give you a report of the results and tell you whether or not he can help you.
3. What is a vertebral subluxation?
A misalignment of the spine (vertebra) or its malfunction can cause nerve
irritation and loss of its normal function. When this happens, normal
communication between the brain and a cell, tissue or organ is interrupted.
Many symptoms respond well to the correction of a vertebral subluxation.
Eliminating subluxations will often restore the patient's health. In most
cases the treatment to correct subluxations is called an adjustment.
4. What are the four steps of a chiropractic treatment?
Intensive phase:
During this phase, your spine is misaligned/malfunctioning and does not
maintain its treatment well. Respecting your appointments will be very
important in order to reach results as quickly as possible.
Reconstructive phase:
At this time, your vertebrae in your spine are returning to normal function.
Many of your symptoms will be alleviated or even eliminated but normal function
has not been restored. You must understand that the correction is not yet complete.
Maintenance phase:
Your spine has stabilized its changes. Your muscles and ligaments are getting
stronger. This step is essential in your long-term stability. It allows you to
maintain the improvement you have achieved.
Prevention phase: This will allow your nervous system and your vertebrae to remain in an
optimal state. Just as a dentist will suggest preventive check-ups to decrease]
the risk of cavities and gum disease, regular chiropractor spinal check-ups
will diminish the risk of vertebral subluxations once again harming your health.