Never been to a chiropractor before? Getting ready for that first session can feel exactly like entering the unknown – because that’s exactly what you’re doing! You might wonder if it’s going to hurt, how long it will take, what exactly they’ll do – or even whether chiropractic care is right for you at all. But here’s the truth: your first session is a crucial step in getting you the clarity, care, and comfort you’ve been looking for, so please, please, please – deal with the stress and keep that appointment! And if you’re dealing with pain, stiffness, headaches, poor posture, or movement limitations, it could be the beginning of real, lasting change that you might remember as one of the best decisions of your life.

So, what does a Sydney chiropractor do in a first session? Let’s dive straight in:

1. A thorough initial consultation

The first thing your chiropractor will do is talk with you. And that’s not going to hurt, is it?!

This part is really important, though. They’ll ask questions about your current concerns – your lower back pain, your headaches, your sports injuries – as well as a little about your general health history:

• Have you had previous injuries?
• Any chronic illnesses?
• Are you currently taking medication?
• Have you tried anything else for your pain?

Things like that. What do chiropractors do at this stage? They gather a full, holistic picture of what’s happening in your body, not just the symptom you came in with. Your lifestyle, work setup, sleeping position, and even stress levels may all be relevant. If you’ve ever wondered whether chiropractors are considered doctors, it’s worth knowing they undergo extensive training to assess and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal issues.

And remember, this initial discussion with your chiro is never rushed – because it’s the foundation of everything that follows.

2. A physical examination tailored to you

Once you’ve discussed your history, the chiropractor will perform a physical exam. But it won’t look like your standard GP check-up. Chiropractors focus on how your spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system are functioning.

What does a chiropractor do here, exactly? They might test your:

• Posture
• Range of motion
• Reflexes
• Strength
• Balance
• Nerve function.

Gentle palpation (hands-on assessment) will help them identify stiffness, misalignments, or areas of muscle tension. Remember: They’re not just looking for pain, they’re looking for the root cause.

And another thing to remember: everything done in this session is within your comfort level. You’ll never be asked to do something you’re not okay with.

3. Clear explanations of what’s going on

Here’s one of the most important parts of the first session: clarity.

What chiropractor does after assessing you is explain what they’ve found – and why it matters. They’ll connect the dots between your symptoms and the underlying issues in your body’s structure and function. You’ll gain insight into how different parts of your body affect each other, like how a hip imbalance might be causing your back pain.

What does a chiro do that’s different from other health professionals? They translate technical knowledge into practical, understandable insight. No jargon. Just answers.

4. A personalised care plan (Not a one-size-fits-all approach)

Some people think chiropractors just do a quick crack and send you home. That’s absolutely not true.

‘Chiropractor what do they do’ is one of the most common questions we hear before these first sessions, especially when it comes to treatment planning. Well, they tailor every aspect of your care to your unique situation. That might include:

• Manual adjustments
• Soft tissue work
• Stretches
• Postural advice
• Or exercises you can do at home.

They’ll also explain how many sessions they recommend, how long results typically take, and what milestones to expect along the way. You can also get a head start by reading how often you should see a chiropractor based on your condition and goals.

You won’t leave your first appointment wondering “Now what?”. Instead, you’ll have a clear path forward.

5. Gentle, effective treatment (Sometimes on day 1!)

Depending on your condition and what the chiropractor finds in their assessment, treatment may well begin in your first session.

What do chiros do during treatment in initial sessions? It depends on your needs. Some people benefit from a hands-on spinal adjustment to restore joint mobility. Others may receive muscle release techniques or mobility-based therapies to reduce stiffness or tension. Some clients don’t receive treatment on day 1 at all if more information (like X-rays or other scans) is needed first.

Remember, every single technique used is backed by empirical research and years of training. Most importantly, it’s done with your consent. If something doesn’t feel right to you, your chiropractor will listen and adapt. Never forget, this is YOUR body, your comfort – your care.

6. Support beyond the treatment table

Here’s something many new clients don’t realise – chiropractic care isn’t just about what happens on the table.

So, what does a chiropractor do beyond adjustments? They coach you on how to move, sit, sleep, and even breathe in a way that supports healing. You’ll get:

• Lifestyle advice
• Ergonomics tips
• Exercises tailored to your condition.

This is one of the reasons people stick with chiropractic care long-term – because it’s not just about treating pain, it’s about building strength and resilience so the pain doesn’t come back – ever!

7. A focus on empowering you, not just ‘fixing’ you

Finally, what chiropractors do best – especially in a trusted, professional clinic – is help you feel confident in your body again. You’re not just a passive recipient of care. You’re an active participant in your own recovery!

In fact, what do chiropractors do that sets them apart in the entire health care world? They build partnerships. You’ll be empowered to understand your health, participate in your recovery, and make choices that work for your lifestyle and goals.

What happens after the first visit?

So that’s 7, and we think that covers a lot. And many clients feel better even after that first treatment – but that’s rarely the case, and that’s okay. Sometimes, the best results come after a few sessions, especially for longer-standing issues.

Your chiropractor will check in with you at each visit, adjusting your care as needed. Think of it as a process, not a quick fix.

And importantly, they’ll tell you if chiropractic care isn’t the right fit. Ethical chiropractors regularly collaborate with GPs, physios, and other health professionals to ensure you get the right help, no matter what.

Your first visit at LRCC

• Personalised
• Professional
• Focused on YOU.

Still wondering what does a chiropractor do – and whether it’s worth your precious time?

At Longueville Road Chiropractic Centre (LRCC), we make your first visit easy – but we definitely make it count. Our experienced, caring team takes the time to get to know you, perform a full assessment, and build a care plan that suits your goals – whether you’re here for pain relief, mobility, prevention, the cure – or something else.

If you’re in Sydney’s North Shore – whether you’re in Chatswood, Lane Cove, Naremburn, Neutral Bay or St Leonards – and ready to take that first step toward better health, give us a call today. We’d love to help you move well, feel strong, and live pain-free. But first, you’ll need to take that first step.

Sufferers will attest: A bulging disc can feel like the worst thing in the world! The pain! The stiffness! The radiating and unrelenting discomfort! A simple daily task can seem like an insurmountable and excruciating challenge. Sitting at your desk, bending over to pick up a bad of shopping, trying to sleep through the night, putting on a pair of socks – living with a bulging disc is, to put it mildly, no easy feat. Are you just looking for some light at the end of the tunnel? Relief from bulging disc really is possible – with the right bulging disc exercises and some professional guidance.

But before we jump into our awesome and safe exercises for bulging disc sufferers, a warning: Working with a Chiropractor before you do anything else is not just highly recommended, it’s absolutely essential. While you may be tempted to ‘Dr Google’ your way to a solution, you really need to understand that every disc bulge is different – and doing the wrong thing based on the wrong advice can dramatically worsen your symptoms and extensively or even chronically extend your condition.

Why consult a Chiropractor before exercising?

When it comes to exercises for a bulging disc, context and caution are pretty much everything. Chiropractors are specifically trained to assess the exact location and severity of your disc bulge, taking into account your overall spine health. Performing exercises without a proper diagnosis could worsen your condition, causing further inflammation, nerve irritation, more severe pain, or create a life-long condition that is extremely difficult to resolve.

However: For those already diagnosed and advised on their condition, safe exercises for bulging disc relief can be incredibly beneficial. So, let’s go through some of the best techniques for easing pain and improving mobility – whilst always remembering to proceed with care and always consult your Chiropractor before starting any new regimen.

The best exercises for bulging disc relief

1. Pelvic Tilts

This gentle movement strengthens your lower back and core while easing tension in the lumbar region.

How to do it:

• Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor
• Tighten your abdominal muscles and flatten your lower back against the floor
• Hold the position for 5-10 seconds, then release
• Repeat 10-15 times.

Pelvic tilts are one of the safest and most effective lumbar disc bulge exercises, helping to stabilise your spine while avoiding strain.

2. Cat-cow stretch

A popular yoga move, the cat-cow stretch promotes flexibility and relieves pressure on the spine.

How to do it:

• Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position
• Inhale as you arch your back, dropping your belly toward the floor and lifting your head (cow pose)
• Exhale as you round your back, tucking your chin and drawing your belly button toward your spine (cat pose)
• Repeat 8-10 times.

This stretch is highly regarded among verified disc bulge exercises, providing relief and improved range of motion for the lumbar spine.

3. Partial crunches

Strengthening your core is one of the best ways to alleviate pressure on the lower back.

How to do it:

• Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor
• Cross your arms over your chest and tighten your abdominal muscles
• Lift your shoulders off the floor slightly, holding for 1-2 seconds, then lower down
• Repeat 10-12 times.

For those seeking exercises for bulging disc in the lower back, partial crunches build support without exacerbating pain.

4. Standing extensions

Extension exercises are particularly useful for certain types of lumbar bulges.

How to do it:

• Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Place your hands on your lower back for support
• Gently lean backward, extending your spine
• Hold for 5 seconds, then return to neutral
• Repeat 5-8 times.

This movement is an excellent exercise for bulging disc relief, especially if bending forward increases your discomfort.

5. Bird dog

This exercise strengthens the core and stabilises the spine, promoting better posture and reducing strain on the lower back.

How to do it:

• Begin on your hands and knees in a tabletop position
• Extend one arm and the opposite leg straight out, keeping your back flat
• Hold for 5 seconds before returning to the starting position
• Switch sides and repeat 8-10 times per side.

As one of the most effective exercises for lower back bulging disc issues, the bird dog really does build core and lumbar support.

6. Child’s pose

A gentle, restorative yoga position, the child’s pose stretches the lower back and alleviates tension.

How to do it:

• Kneel on the floor and sit back on your heels
• Stretch your arms forward and lower your chest toward the floor
• Rest your forehead on the ground and hold for 20-30 seconds
• Repeat 3-4 times.

This pose is among the safest of all exercises for bulging disc sufferers, offering immediate relief without risking further injury.

Proceed with caution

These bulging disc exercises really are generally safe. But we use the word ‘generally’ very carefully. That’s because it’s absolutely crucial to listen to your body. If anything causes sharp, worsening, or unbearable pain, STOP IMMEDIATELY and consult your Chiropractor. It’s critical to avoid high-impact activities, heavy lifting, or bending and twisting motions that could aggravate your condition – and always warm up before starting whilst maintaining proper form throughout each exercise.

Why choose Longueville Road Chiropractic Centre?

Here at Longueville Road Chiropractic Centre (LRCC), our friendly team is passionate about and dedicated to helping you achieve optimal health and well-being through personalised Chiropractic care. Our mission is to empower you to live a pain-free life by addressing the root causes of your discomfort – not just the symptoms.

Our approach is:

Holistic Care: A comprehensive approach to your health, combining Chiropractic adjustments with nutritional advice, tailored exercise programs, and lifestyle guidance to support your overall wellness.

A Multidisciplinary Practice: Our affiliations with holistic dentists, scoliosis specialists, and corrective exercise kinesiologists ensure you receive an integrated and thorough treatment plan.

Our Experienced Team: Our always-smiling Chiropractors are committed to ongoing education and post-graduate studies, ensuring you receive the most current and effective treatments available.

A Convenient Location: Situated on Sydney’s North Shore, LRCC serves clients from across the region, including Ryde, Chatswood, North Sydney, and beyond.

Don’t let a bulging disc define your life

Have you done some of these great exercises for disc bulge problems and there’s still no relief? Have you considered reaching out to Longueville Road Chiropractic Centre (LRCC)? Chat to our friendly team, get some up-front advice, and schedule a convenient appointment – and you will have taken the first step towards a healthier, pain-free future. Give us a shout at LRCC today.

There are plenty of kinds of pain and discomfort, but you’ll never forget that sharp, shooting, tingling pain including numbness and muscle weakness of a pinched nerve. And perhaps worse still, it can really ruin your daily life. So let’s get straight to it: Can a chiropractor fix a pinched nerve? In this blog, we’ll explore the answer in-depth, and also discuss the diagnostic capabilities of chiropractors and delve into the most common types of pinched nerves.

Understanding pinched nerves

A pinched nerve occurs when there is excessive pressure applied to a nerve by the surrounding tissues such as bones, cartilage, muscles and tendons. This pressure disrupts the nerve’s function, triggering pain, tingling, numbness or weakness – or all of the above! Pinched nerves are commonly found in the neck and lower back, leading to significant discomfort and mobility issues when you’re trying to get on with your otherwise productive and enjoyable life.

Can a chiropractor diagnose a pinched nerve?

The answer, thankfully, is yes. Chiropractors are trained to recognise, diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions – including pinched nerves. They use a combination of medical history, physical examination and diagnostic imaging like X-rays and MRI scans to identify the cause and location of the pinched nerve for a precise diagnosis, which is critical for effective treatment.

How can a chiropractor help a pinched nerve?

Mercifully, chiropractors can provide significant relief for those of you suffering from pinched nerves. Targeted chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper alignment and function to the spine and other joints, which can alleviate the pressure on the affected nerve, reduce symptoms, and promote long-term healing.

Treatment techniques

Luckily for those of you out there who are suffering, there are several effective techniques chiropractors use to treat pinched nerves:

1. Chiropractic adjustments

One of the primary methods chiropractors use to treat pinched nerves is spinal manipulation or adjustment. The technique involves applying controlled force to the spine to improve alignment and relieve pressure on the nerves.

2. Soft tissue therapy

Chiropractors may also use techniques like massage or myofascial release to relax tight muscles and reduce inflammation around the pinched nerve.

3. Exercises & stretches

Personalised exercise and stretching routines can help strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, improve flexibility, and prevent future issues.

4. Lifestyle & ergonomic advice

Chiropractors often provide guidance on posture, ergonomics and lifestyle changes to help manage and prevent pinched nerves.

Addressing specific pinched nerve issues

Chiropractor for pinched nerve in neck

Neck pain can be absolutely debilitating, and is often caused by a pinched nerve. Can a chiropractor fix a pinched nerve in your neck? Absolutely! Chiropractic adjustments specifically target the cervical spine (the neck area) to improve alignment and relieve pressure on the nerves.

A chiropractor for a pinched nerve in the neck may also incorporate therapeutic exercises and ergonomic advice to enhance recovery and prevent recurrence.

Chiropractor for pinched nerve in lower back

Lower back pain is another common complaint, frequently resulting from a pinched nerve. A chiropractor for a pinched nerve in the lower back will focus on spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and fully-customised exercises to alleviate pain and restore function.

Chiropractic care can effectively reduce inflammation and promote healing, providing long-term relief from lower back pain caused by a pinched nerve.

A 5-step chiropractic approach to treating pinched nerves

This step-by-step approach ensures thorough care and optimal recovery for patients with pinched nerves:

1. Initial consultation & examination

During your first visit, your chiropractor will take a detailed medical history and perform a thorough physical examination to understand your symptoms and pinpoint the affected nerve.

2. Diagnostic imaging

If necessary, the chiropractor may recommend X-rays or an MRI to get a clearer picture of the nerve compression and its cause.

3. Customised treatment plan

Based on the diagnosis, the chiropractor will develop a personalised treatment plan that is just for you, which may include spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, exercises, and lifestyle modifications.

4. Regular adjustments & monitoring

Ongoing chiropractic care with regular adjustments helps maintain spinal alignment and nerve health. Your chiropractor will monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

5. Preventative care & education

Education and advice on proper posture, ergonomics and exercises will be provided to help you avoid future nerve issues and maintain overall spinal health.

Your path to recovery starts here

Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive, non-invasive solution for pinched nerves. Whether you’re trying to cope with a pinched nerve in your neck or your lower back or somewhere else, a chiropractor can diagnose the issue and provide the treatment that you – and only you – need.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a pinched nerve, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from the friendly team right here at Longueville Road Chiropractic Centre. LRCC offers comprehensive chiropractic care focused on treating musculoskeletal issues with services include spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, exercise recommendations, ergonomic advice and much more. Together, we’ll alleviate your pain, improve function, and enhance your overall health through personalised treatment that aims to achieve long-term relief and optimal wellness – both today and well into the future.

Need help? The Sydney chiropractic care you’re looking for is just around the corner, right here at Longueville Road Chiropractic Centre. Get in touch today.

The human body is an incredible thing. It’s a vast and intricate network, where issues in one area can sometimes manifest symptoms in another – often in ways that seem strange, surprising or counterintuitive. A problem in the heart might cause pain in the arm, while an issue in the spine can lead to numbness in the legs. This interconnectedness can often make diagnosing and understanding health issues a complex task. For instance, you may be surprised to learn that the discomfort and pressure of sinus issues can be linked to neck pain – or, to a lesser degree, vice versa. In this blog, we’re going to explore the fascinating connection between sinus health and neck pain – and what can be done about it. Can sinusitis cause neck pain? Let’s dive in:

Sinusitis neck pain: Identifying the symptoms

First, a question: Is it really so difficult to imagine that, given the intricate anatomy and nerve pathways of the head and neck region, that sinus pressure can radiate to various other parts of the head and neck? Sinusitis neck pain is actually a lot more common than you might imagine, as the nerves in the sinuses – those air-filled spaces in the skull – are closely linked with their counterparts in the neck. Also common is that the body’s natural response to pain is to consciously or subconsciously alter posture or movement patterns, compounding the neck issue.

Sinus pressure in neck and shoulders?: Here’s the deal

Dealing with sinus and neck pain? Here’s how to get a better understanding of whether you really are tackling sinus infection neck pain:

1. Consistent timing of the symptoms

If your neck pain tends to flare up at the same time as sinus issues including congestion or headaches, it’s a good sign of a connection.

TIP: Use a warm compress on your sinuses to reduce congestion, which may in turn alleviate neck tension.

2. Location of the pain

Neck pain that is more pronounced towards the back of the neck and feels worse when you move your head can be a sign of sinus-related discomfort.

TIP: Gentle neck stretches and maintaining a good posture can help relieve this type of neck pain.

3. Pressure points

If pressing on sinus pressure points, such as those beside your nose or under your eyes, triggers neck pain, this can be a sign of their interconnectedness.

TIP: A gentle sinus massage using your fingertips can help relieve both sinus pressure and related neck pain.

4. Relief from sinus medication

If taking sinus medication eases your neck pain, this is a good indication of a link between the two.

TIP: Medication can provide temporary relief, but also ensure to stay hydrated and consider using a humidifier to keep your sinuses clear.

5. Changes with sinus treatments

Take note to see if other treatments like nasal irrigation or using decongestants also relieve your neck pain.

TIP: Practicing regular nasal irrigation is a good way to prevent sinus congestion, potentially reducing the frequency of neck pain.

6. Response to environmental allergens

If your neck pain worsens with sinus flare-ups during high pollen days or in dusty environments, they might be related.

TIP: Look up how to keep your living spaces free of allergens, like using an air purifier to reduce sinus irritants.

7. General stiffness & discomfort

A general feeling of stiffness or discomfort that extends from your sinuses to your neck definitely suggests a connection.

TIP: Engage in light exercise or yoga to improve overall body circulation and reduce stiffness.

Navigating through sinus and neck pain: Strategies for relief

Neck and sinus pain can be a complex and confusing interplay – so what’s next? Here at Longueville Road Chiropractic Centre (LRCC), our specialists diagnose and treat the full scope of musculoskeletal issues. We adjust misalignments in the spine, reduce nerve interference, alleviate muscle tension, and improve overall nerve function, which are all particularly beneficial for those experiencing neck pain connected to sinus issues. For personalised and professional Sydney chiropractic care, embrace the path to relief and holistic health by giving us a call today at LRCC.

If you’re human, you know what neck pain feels like – because it’s one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders under the sun. About 20-30% of us, however, will actually feel it so acutely or  that we’ll seek professional help. If you’re in that category, it’s only natural to consider whether you need a chiropractor or just a massage for your neck pain.

Chiropractor or massage for neck pain?

How’s that neck feeling? Perhaps you just fell asleep in an uncomfortable position and it’s gone stiff overnight. Or maybe that neck pain has been caused by years of bad posture, a simple muscle strain, a degenerative condition, a compressed nerve – or something else entirely.

Whichever is true for you, you have several options on the menu:

• Over-the-counter pain medication
• Rest and at-home ice/heat therapy
• Physical therapy exercises
• Medical consultation
• Massage therapy or chiropractic care.

The reason we’ve grouped the last two together is because they both can be highly effective treatments for neck pain of one type or another. Massage focuses on relaxation and muscle tension relief, while chiropractic care involves skilful spinal adjustments aimed at improving alignment.

Do you really need a chiropractor for stiff neck?

So how do you know when you should be booking an appointment at your local massage specialist, or start looking into finding a great chiropractor for neck pain? The answer? Here’s how to figure it all out:

1. How’s your pain?

Whether you need a quick neck pain massage or a chiropractor depends first of all on the severity and persistence of your neck pain. A massage can suffice in many cases, especially in the case of mild discomfort from muscle tension. But for more comprehensive relief and long-term improvement, or if the pain is in the severe or chronic categories, a chiropractic assessment is something to look into.

2. What are your symptoms?

If your symptoms have moved in the area of severely restricted movement, numbness or headaches, this indicates the involvement of the nerves. In that case, chiropractic care can be helpful.

3. What’s your medical history?

Do you have any pre-existing conditions or past injuries? Remember, massage therapists are not necessarily trained to diagnose and manage musculoskeletal issues – but chiropractors are! For specific medical history-related concerns, step your treatment up a notch.

4. Consider your personal comfort

Remember, manual adjustments by chiropractors involve some level of discomfort due to joint manipulation. If you’re squeamish about this from the outset, it might be a good idea to try a gentle massage first.

5. What are your treatment goals?

Are you just seeking some immediate relief from muscle tension? In that case, a great massage can be great. But if your concerns have moved into the zone of long-time spinal and overall health and alignment, start looking around for a good local chiropractor.

6. Ask the experts

The easiest way to get a very informed opinion or two about what you need for your situation is – thankfully – easy! Get in touch with a qualified massage therapist and a chiropractor, and describe what you’re going through. They’ll know what to do next.

7. Give it a try

While you’re in touch with those massage and chiro specialists, ask them if it’s worth giving their services a whirl. That’s because a massage is a very low risk and not likely to cause any serious additional problems. A consultation with a chiropractor, meanwhile, will give you a great idea about whether adjustments will alleviate your pain.

8. Tend towards a holistic approach

Do you tend towards a comprehensive, whole-body approach to healing? If so, you’re a believer in not just symptomatic relief but enhanced overall wellness. In case of neck pain, chiropractic care will seek to enhance your overall wellness by focusing on the spine’s alignment and its impact on the nervous system. If you’re looking solely for immediate sensory well-being, a decent massage is worth a try.

Need to find a great neck pain chiropractor?

Are you going down the chiro road? Good news: it’s easy to take the next step. It’s just a matter of scheduling an initial consultation with one of our fully-qualified and always-friendly chiropractors to assess your situation and come up with the perfect and totally personalised treatment plan.

If you’re seeking expert chiropractic care in the North Shore area and beyond, Longueville Road Chiropractic Centre is a trusted destination offering specialised chiropractic services with that extra touch. Get in touch with LRCC today and we’ll work through that neck pain together.