If you’ve ever had a bad back, you’ll know the relief felt when a chiropractor works their magic.
There’s nothing quite so debilitating as a bad back that impacts each step, movement and even sleep. Of the various treatments available, chiropractic is a great choice due to its primary focus on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine.
One of Subiaco’s longest-standing practitioners, Hay Street Chiropractic’s Dr Nathalie Laurendeau says while people associate chiropractic treatment with fixing back pain, it’s far from the only reason clients visit.
“Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek healthcare at a chiropractor, but we also see people with disc injuries, neck pain, headaches, vertigo, joint pain from shoulders to feet, nerve pain and sports injuries,” Nathalie explained.
Using a variety of adjustments learned over years of education and training, chiropractors precisely adjust multiple areas of the body, including elbows and ankles, to bring alignment to clients’ bodies which often leads to restoring overall health, too.
“The speed at which patients experience relief after chiropractic treatment varies widely depending on the condition being treated and its severity, but it’s not uncommon for patients to feel immediate post-adjustment effects, such as improved range of motion, reduced muscle tension and a sense of relaxation,” Nathalie said.
While some of us sound like bubble wrap during a morning stretch, Nathalie discourages any intentional cracking at home, especially messing around with the delicate infrastructure of our spines.
“Improper manipulation can have unintended consequences including sprains, strains or even more serious issues such as joint damage or nerve injury,” Nathalie said. “I understand how joint popping or cracking might provide temporary relief for some people, but often individuals have underlying health conditions causing the discomfort which a professional will identify and treat.”
Another common misconception about chiropractic treatment is that patients might choose it over another treatment such as physiotherapy or massage. While it might seem like they’re in direct opposition, Nathalie says each form of health care has its place in treating ailments.
“Chiropractic care, physiotherapy and massage therapy are distinct forms of treatment each with their own strengths and focus with some overlap,” Nathalie explained.
According to Nathalie, many healthcare professionals recognise the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach to patient care and collaborate to help patients recover from injuries and enhance physical well-being. In the meantime, if you’re in need of a realignment, Subiaco is spoilt for choice with many well-regarded clinics in the area. Here are a few we love:
Hay Street Chiropractic
Unit 10, 513 Hay Street, Subiaco
Nathalie has been treating clients in Subiaco for over 20 years and is passionate about helping people achieve good overall well-being on top of excellent spinal health. Her reception is filled with photos of athletes achieving great things such as triathlons, marathons, kayaking and cycling. A seasoned triathlete and cyclist herself, Nathalie understands the needs of athletes and the importance of being injury-free.
Pillar Chiropractic and Pilates
198 Nicholson Road, Subiaco
Owner and founder, Dr Amy Lauren was introduced to chiropractic treatment during her time as a Western Australian Institute of Sport gymnast. The holistic approach of chiropractic care combined with determining and treating the root cause of injuries led to her choosing it for her own career path. This award-winning chiropractor has created a beautiful treatment space at Pillar with the added bonus of its Pilates offering.
Wild Chiropractic
160 Onslow Road, Shenton Park
Husband and wife team Dr Matt Hamilton and Dr Kyna Hamilton run their lifestyle-based space using chiropractic treatments to help clients achieve good health and greater purpose. Kyna specialises in pregnancy and postpartum chiropractic care while Matt was once WA State Chair for Sports Chiropractic Australia, while both are passionate about helping all members of the community achieve a healthy body and mind.
Capacity Health
Shop 1/220 Nicholson Road, Subiaco
Dr Paul Patterson followed in his father’s footsteps to become a second generation chiropractor, opening Capacity Health after starting his career at his family’s practice. With a background in sports and a special interest in pregnancy and paediatric care (and five kids of his own), Paul uses a variety of adjustment styles including Active Release Technique, Cranial therapy and running technique analysis.
Vivify Health & Chiropractic
Unit 2/590 Hay Street, Subiaco
You might recognise Vivify’s owner Dr Iain Hennessy is also a Les Mills fitness trainer at Lords with a cult following. His passion for restoring people’s health, fitness and range of movement extends into his chiropractic practice. Supported by another experienced and passionate chiropractor Dr Georgie Neaves, Vivify gets extra points for its feathered friends Monkey and Otis. Two rescued lorikeets visit the practice daily to brighten clients’ days.
