Frequently Asked Questions

Chiropractic is a hands-on, drug-free approach to health care that focuses on the diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those affecting the spine. It is one of the largest non-surgical health care professions, with a strong and growing body of research supporting its use for back pain, neck pain, headaches and other neuromusculoskeletal complaints.

Chiropractors treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. The most common include back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, jaw pain, joint stiffness, muscle injuries and postural problems.

We also work with pregnant women, infants, children and athletes. The vast majority of musculoskeletal conditions fall within our scope of practice. In the rare case that yours does not, we will refer you to the appropriate specialist.

If you have pain, stiffness or restricted movement in your back, neck, joints or muscles, chiropractic care is worth considering. It is also a good option if you want to stay active, recover from an injury or manage a long-standing condition.

Chiropractic care is included in clinical guidelines as a recommended treatment for back and neck pain. At your first visit, we will assess whether chiropractic is the right approach for you.

Yes. Chiropractic care has an excellent safety record and is a low-risk treatment for musculoskeletal conditions. As a non-surgical, drug-free approach, it carries fewer risks than many alternatives. Your chiropractor will discuss any considerations relevant to your case before treatment begins.

Chiropractors undergo extensive education before becoming licensed primary healthcare practitioners. After undergraduate science requirements covering chemistry, anatomy, physiology and physics, students complete a 5-year Master's degree in Chiropractic at the University of Johannesburg or Durban University of Technology. The curriculum covers pathology, biochemistry, neurology, orthopaedics, examination procedures, differential diagnosis and X-ray interpretation. Graduates must register with the AHPCSA to practise.

Your first visit starts with a consultation covering your medical history and current condition. We then perform a physical examination including orthopaedic and neurological tests, and assess your spinal movement and posture. If imaging is needed we will recommend it. We then explain our findings, answer your questions and outline a tailored treatment plan.

After your consultation and examination, we design a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Treatment typically centres around chiropractic adjustments, which restore movement to restricted joints and reduce pain.

Some people notice improvement after a single adjustment, while most experience gradual, progressive relief over the course of treatment. We also prescribe exercises and give practical advice to support your recovery between visits.

It depends on the nature of your condition and your goals. Many acute problems resolve within a few visits, while longer-standing issues may take more time. We will give you a clear idea of what to expect after your first assessment.

Some patients also choose to schedule periodic visits as part of staying healthy and active. Children tend to respond quickly, while adults with chronic conditions may need a longer course of care.

At Sandton Sport & Family Chiropractic we charge medical aid based rates, however we are contracted out of medical aid. You settle your account at the clinic, and can then send a paid invoice to your medical aid for reimbursement.