Chiropractic is a straightforward method of adjusting the bones of the body to maintain the correct alignment of the spine, and to ensure that the body’s nerve supply works efficiently. The term “chiropractic” comes from the Greek “done by hand” and is the largest healthcare profession in the world after medicine and dentistry.

McTimoney Chiropractic is an uncomplicated method comprising a variety of techniques, generally using only the Chiropractor’s hands, no medication and normally no X-rays. It is renowned for its singularly gentle approach and for treating the whole body at each session. The adjustments are precise, deft and very quick, resulting in the minimum of patient discomfort.

John McTimoney, who founded the McTimoney method was trained by a graduate of the original Palmer School of Chiropractic, and as such believed in the “vitalist” approach to chiropractic – that the body has its own “Innate Self- Healing” ability and that chiropractors are the facilitators of the healing process.

What I do

I will examine by hand [palpate] the bones and joints of the body to check for imbalances or misalignments. Any problems found are corrected with various adjustments which are gentle, effective and safe. I work over the whole body every time, aiming to correct the musculo-skeletal alignment and to restore nerve function, which promotes natural health.

Why I do it

The human nervous system is responsible for all body functions. The spinal column is composed of 33 vertebrae and is designed for flexibility, strength and protection. As long as the vertebrae remain in normal alignment, these functions are fulfilled.
However vertebral misalignments do occur and are called “subluxations”.

Subluxations interfere with nerve pathways between the vertebrae and cause localised pain, of any description and any duration, anywhere down the course of that nerve, leading to malfunction in either the muscles, bones or internal organs.
For example, tingling fingers can often be caused by subluxation of the neck vertebrae; pain into the toes and down the back of the thigh can be due to the compression of the sciatic nerve which comes through the lower back and sacral areas.

How I do it

On the first session I take a full case history in order to assess and analyse the problem. Information taken will include details of symptoms, general health, background, lifestyle, occupation, diet, emotional health, sports and hobbies.

The treatment is very much an alliance between me and my patient whereby I will explain clearly the proposed treatment plan, the results of my physical examination and the benefits and any notable risks in regards to their condition. If I feel the need for medical intervention I will refer you to your GP for further investigation.

I will then palpate and adjust individual bones and joints of the skull, thorax, spine, pelvis and limbs as needed, realigning and rebalancing the entire body. The bones are never forced into place,but by adjusting with a very rapid thrust and immediate release the bone toggles towards its correct position. This is achieved by easing muscle tension and using the natural elasticity of tendons attached to the bone.

Number of treatments

The number of treatments for most straightforward conditions is between 2 and 6 but this can vary depending on the person’s age, general health, and the duration they have had the problem. I also recommend preventative measures in between sessions which can greatly improve the body’s overall health and wellbeing, thus ensuring that the body maintains a healthy balance.

What causes subluxations/misalignments/imbalances?

The skeleton cannot move by itself, so muscles joined to the bone by tendons enable the body to move. Too much muscle tension can cause the bone to subluxate towards the tighter muscle. Any actions carried out in an unbalanced way – vacuuming, tennis, golf, even carrying a shoulder bag- can lead to imbalance in the body. Additional causes include lifting, falls, accidents, illness, childbirth, occupational hazards, sports injuries, emotional and physical stress, bad posture, and even a poor mattress. Some changes are so subtle that often changes can occur without the patient’s knowledge.

What problems are treated

McTimoney Chiropractic has proven to be effective in treating the following conditions:

Ankle sprain (short term management).

Cramp.

Elbow pain and tennis elbow arising from associated musculoskeletal conditions of the back and neck.

Headaches arising from the neck (cervicogenic)

Inability to relax.

Joint pains.

Joint pains including hip and knee pain from osteoarthritis as in conjunction with core OA treatments and exercise/rehabilitation.

General, acute and chronic backache/back pain.

Generalised aches and pains.

Lumbago.

Migraine prevention.

Minor sports injuries and tensions.

Muscle spasms.

Sciatica.

Shoulder Complaints.

Summary

The aim of the course of treatments is to help the body to realign, restore correct nerve function, reduce muscle tension and relieve pain, increase mobility, resulting in improved overall health.