Chiropractor Care in Vancouver & Burnaby BC

Chiropractors are regulated healthcare professionals and doctors of complementary and alternative healthcare who focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders affecting the skeleton, muscles, joints, and nervous system.

Chiropractic care is a drug-free, non-surgical approach to healthcare. Chiropractors use manual therapy, spinal adjustments, soft tissue techniques, exercise prescription, and lifestyle counseling to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.

Chiropractors are the third largest group of healthcare providers in North America after medical doctors and dentists. For more information, patients can visit the Canadian Chiropractic Association website.

Treatment depends on the condition being treated and is always individualized.

Care may include:

• Joint manipulation or spinal adjustments
• Joint mobilization
• Soft tissue therapy
• Corrective strengthening exercises
• Therapeutic stretching
• Posture and lifestyle education
• Custom orthotics or braces when needed

Chiropractors may also combine care with physiotherapy or massage therapy for optimal recovery.

A spinal adjustment is a gentle, specific, controlled movement applied to a restricted or “locked” joint to restore normal mobility and biomechanics.

Adjustments may:

• Improve joint movement and alignment
• Stimulate joint receptors that inhibit pain signals
• Allow surrounding muscles to relax
• Break up scar tissue around joints

Not all chiropractic care involves forceful adjustments — treatment is chosen based on clinical findings and patient comfort.

The cracking or popping sound is simply the release of gas pressure inside the joint.

Gas is dissolved in joint fluid, and when pressure changes during stretching, gas bubbles are released — similar to opening a can of pop.

The goal of an adjustment is not to create noise, but to normalize joint motion. The sound is just a harmless side effect.

Adjustments do not usually cause discomfort, and many patients feel immediate tension relief.

Soft tissue therapy may feel similar to deep tissue massage and may cause mild discomfort, but patient comfort is always the priority.

If a patient prefers not to be “cracked,” or if adjustments are contraindicated, chiropractors can use other effective techniques such as:

• Joint mobilizations
• Stretching
• Soft tissue therapy
• Exercise-based care

Yes. Chiropractic care is one of the safest evidence-based treatment options for back and neck pain when provided by a licensed chiropractor.

All patients go through an informed consent process where risks, benefits, and treatment options are clearly explained, and questions are always encouraged.

Chiropractors treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and movement-related conditions, including:

Spine & Nerve-Related Conditions

• Low back pain and sciatica
• Neck pain and stiffness
• Disc-related conditions
• Headaches and migraines

Joint & Movement Issues

• Shoulder, hip, and knee pain
• Joint stiffness and reduced mobility
• Repetitive strain injuries

Lifestyle & Postural Pain

• Desk/computer posture strain
• Workplace injuries
• Chronic muscle tension

Chiropractic care is also commonly used for sports injuries and motor vehicle accident recovery.

Some pain may improve over time, but other conditions can worsen if untreated.

Chiropractic care helps reduce pain, restore movement, and speed up healing while lowering the risk of future recurrence.

It is always recommended to get assessed to determine the cause of discomfort and whether treatment should include in-clinic care, home care, or both.

No — chiropractic care is not something you must continue forever.

Patients generally fall into two groups:

• Traumatic injury patients (sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents) typically follow a structured plan until the condition resolves and are discharged.
• Chronic or postural pain patients (desk strain, repetitive stress) may experience flare-ups and often benefit from occasional maintenance or preventative care.

Many common issues — such as back pain and headaches — develop from predictable build-ups of tension and repetitive stress from work, sports, and posture. Over time, symptoms can return as stress builds up again. Many patients find that monthly or bi-monthly “maintenance” visits help them stay at their best and prevent bigger problems.

Frequency varies depending on goals:

• Acute pain: weekly or bi-weekly
• Chronic issues: every 2–4 weeks
• Wellness/maintenance: monthly

Care decisions are always made collaboratively between patient and chiropractor.

Your first visit typically includes:

• Detailed health history
• Postural and movement assessment
• Explanation of findings
• Personalized treatment plan
• Initial treatment if appropriate

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothing that allows free movement. Shorts or loose/stretchy pants help with hip and knee assessments. Clinic gowns or shorts can be provided if needed.

Do I need a referral?

No referral is required in British Columbia.

Is chiropractic covered by insurance?

Yes. Chiropractic care is covered by most private extended health plans. Our clinics offer direct billing and also accept MSP, ICBC, and WCB.

Who can be treated?

Chiropractors treat patients of all ages, including children. Children under age 5 may be co-treated with cooperation from a pediatrician or family doctor.

Do many people see chiropractors?

Yes — about 15–20% of the population sees a chiropractor at any given time.