Do I need a referral from my GP to see a chiropractor?
You do not need a referral from my GP to see a chiropractor. Chiropractic is a primary healthcare profession in the UK, so you can book directly without going through your GP. If you’d prefer to speak to your doctor first, you’re welcome to, but it isn’t required. Just call the clinic or book online using our online diary.
How quickly will I be seen?
I can usually offer you a chiropractic appointment within 24 or 48 hours, and often the same day. If you’re in acute pain, call and I’ll do my best to fit you in. The clinic on Branksome Hill Road Bournemouth is open Monday to Friday 7.30am to 6pm and Saturday 7.30am to 3pm.
Can I speak to the chiropractor before I commit to treatment?
Yes, of course you can I speak to me, the chiropractor, before you decide to book in. You can call for a chat or book a free 15-minute in-person consultation online using our online diary. There’s no obligation. It’s a chance to talk through your problem, ask whatever you need to and decide whether chiropractic is right for you before committing to an appointment. A lot of people find that helpful, particularly if they’ve never seen a chiropractor before. It’s also a chance to meet me in person first.
How do I book an appointment with a chiropractor?
You can book your chiropractic appointment online at any time, or by calling 01202 937568 (or 07970 004497). Our online diary makes it an easy process or phone through if you can’t find something to suit you.
The clinic is located at 42 Branksome Hill Road, Bournemouth, BH4 9LE, just past the traffic lights at the junction with Glenferness Avenue. I see chiropractic patients from a large local radius from all across Bournemouth and Poole, including Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs, Talbot Woods, Westbourne and Parkstone.
Directions to the clinic and our precise location can be found here to help you.
What happens on my first visit to see a chiropractor?
Your chiropractic first visit includes a full consultation, a physical examination and, in most cases, your first treatment. I’ll start by talking through your problem: when it began, what you think may have caused it and how it’s affecting you day to day. I take a full chiropractic history including past injuries, operations and any medications you’re on. Then I carry out a physical examination, looking at posture, spinal and joint movement and relevant orthopaedic and neurological tests.
I explain what I’ve found, talk through your options and only start treatment once you understand and agree to the plan. The chiropractic first visit takes longer than a routine appointment to allow time for all of that we need to cover in detail.
How should I prepare for my first visit to see a chiropractor for treatment and what should I wear?
When you come to see me for chiropractic treatment, wear something comfortable you can move in. A T-shirt and loose trousers or leggings are ideal. It’s worth thinking through the details of your pain or injury beforehand. Note down about when your symptoms started, what makes them better or worse and any questions you’d like to ask. If you have recent scan results, X-ray reports or a list of medications, bring those along too. Here is an explanation of your first visit answered in some detail.
How long is a chiropractic appointment?
A standard chiropractic treatment is around 30 minutes. Your first visit to see me is longer, usually 45 minutes, because it includes the consultation and examination. Extended 45-minute or one-hour appointments are also available for more complex problems or if you’d simply like more time.
Can I bring someone with me to the clinic?
Yes of course you can bring someone with you when you come to see me. You’re welcome to bring a friend, partner, family member or carer, whether for support or to help you remember what we discuss. You can let me know when you book or just turn up together, the clinic is spacious enough for extra chairs and we have a comfortable waiting area too.
Does chiriopractic treatment hurt?
Chiropractic treatment is gentle and most people find it comfortable. I work carefully and at a pace that suits you and I’m well aware that many people arrive already in pain and may feel apprehensive.
Some people feel mild soreness afterwards, similar to post-exercise aching, which I’ll explain before you leave. If anything feels uncomfortable during a session, you can ask me to stop at any time.
Is chiropractic safe?
For most people, yes chiropractic is safe, when carried out by a registered, properly trained chiropractor. UK chiropractors complete a four-to-five-year accredited Master’s-level degree and are regulated by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) under the Chiropractors Act 1994. I qualified in 1987, so I have many years of professional experience.
The most common reactions to treatment are minor and short-lived: typically mild soreness or stiffness, similar to how you’d feel after a workout. Serious adverse events are rare. I screen for the conditions where manipulation isn’t appropriate and if chiropractic isn’t right for you, I’ll tell you and refer you on. [4][5][6]
Can a chiropractic neck adjustment cause a stroke?
Serious neurological complications from chiropractic care are very rare and a clear cause-and-effect link has not been established. A specific type of stroke can, in rare cases, follow a tear in an artery in the neck (a cervical artery dissection). A 2014 American Heart Association/American Stroke Association scientific statement concluded that although an association with neck manipulation cannot be completely ruled out, any risk appears to be very low and a causal relationship has not been demonstrated. [3] A large population study found that people were no more likely to have this type of stroke after seeing a chiropractor than after seeing their GP, which suggests that some patients are already in the early stages of a dissection when they seek care, rather than the treatment causing the problem. [7]
I take this seriously. I screen for risk factors and warning signs before any neck treatment, use the gentlest technique suited to you and always explain what I’m doing. If you’d prefer to avoid neck manipulation, there are effective alternatives and I’m happy to use them.
What is the cracking or popping sound during an adjustment?
The cracking or popping sound during a chiropractic adjustment is just gas releasing inside the joint. It is harmless and exactly the same as the sound when you crack your knuckles. When a joint is gently mobilised, a small drop in pressure causes dissolved gas in the joint fluid to form a tiny bubble. That’s the pop. It isn’t bones grinding or anything being forced. Not every treatment produces the sound either; many of my techniques are very gentle and produce none at all.
Are there people who shouldn’t have chiropractic treatment?
Yes, there a few people who shouldn’t have chiropractic treatment. Part of my job is identifying that. Conditions such as significant osteoporosis, inflammatory arthritis, certain fractures, infections, some neurological problems or possible serious underlying disease mean that treatment may need to be modified or avoided. If your examination or history raises that concern, I’ll tell you and refer you to your GP or a specialist.
How do I know if a chiropractor is properly qualified?
It is easy to find out if a chiropractor is properly qualified. In the UK, “chiropractor” is a protected title. Anyone using it must be registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC). Under the Chiropractors Act 1994, it is a criminal offence to practise as a chiropractor, or to use the title “Doctor of Chiropractic”, without GCC registration. You can check any chiropractor’s registration free of charge on the GCC’s online register. My own registration is current and can be verified there. [8][9]
What conditions can chiropractic help with?
Chiropractic is best supported by evidence for treatment of musculoskeletal problems, particularly low back pain, neck pain and some types of headache such as tension-type and cervicogenic (neck-related) headaches. People also commonly come to me with sciatica, shoulder, hip, knee and other joint complaints, postural strain, sports injuries and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis. The symptoms of scoliosis, not curing or correcting the curve, can respond well to chiropractic treatment.
I keep my advice within what the evidence supports. If your problem falls outside what chiropractic can reasonably help with, I’ll tell you and point you in the right direction.
What does the medical evidence say about chiropractic for back pain?
Medical evidence supports chiropractic for back pain. National guidance supports manual therapy, including spinal manipulation, as part of the treatment of low back pain.
The UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends considering manual therapy, spinal manipulation, mobilisation or soft-tissue techniques for low back pain with or without sciatica, as part of a package that also includes exercise. [1]
A 2026 Cochrane review found that spinal manipulation is about as effective as other recommended treatments for chronic low back pain, with no serious adverse effects reported in the trials, while noting that the benefit is modest and the certainty of the evidence is limited. [2]
In practice, chiropractic is a reasonable, evidence-based option for back pain, and it works best alongside staying active and doing the exercises I give you.
Can chiropractic treatment help with scoliosis?
Chiropractic care cannot straighten or reverse a scoliotic curve and I am always honest with patients about that, as should every practitioner also be. What it may help with is the muscle and joint discomfort that often accompanies the condition, particularly in adults whose curve is linked to age-related wear.
Chiropractic care for scoliosis focuses on keeping the spine mobile, easing muscular tension and supporting you to stay active. I always assess each person individually and if your curve needs specialist input, such as a significant curve in an adolescent, I will refer you appropriately. You can read more on my full guide on my scoliosis page.
How many treatments will I need?
There’s no single answer to the very important question of how many chiropractic treatments will you might need. I’ll give you a realistic estimate about time frames and costs after your first examination.
How many chiropractic visits you need will be affected by several additional factors too. It depends on what’s wrong, how long you’ve had your pain or injury, your age, general health and how you respond as treatment progresses.
Many people notice improvement within the first few sessions. Recent, simple problems often resolve quickly; long-standing or more complex ones take longer. I’ll review progress as we go and we regularly discuss progress and I will refer you on to a specialist or your GP if I don’t think further treatment is helping.
Do I have to keep going forever? Is chiropractic “addictive”?
You’re never obliged to keep coming for treatment and chiropractic is not addictive. Treatment aims to resolve your problem and give you the tools to stay well on your own. Once you’re better, some people choose occasional maintenance visits, particularly if they have a physically demanding job or a condition that tends to recur, but that’s entirely their choice.
What if chiropractic can’t help my particular problem? Will I still be charged?
If chiropractic isn’t right for your problem, injury or condition, I’ll tell you at the earliest opportunity and you’ll only be charged for that first visit. If it would help, I’ll write to your GP or a specialist with my findings and advice so you’re not left to chase things up alone.
This is one of the reasons I offer the opportunity to cone for a free 15 minute consultation before committing to a course of treatment for your condition. I can give you a good idea at that point how much chiropractic treatment may be able to help you from there.
Will I need X-rays or a scan?
Most people don’t need an X-ray or scan before embarking on chiropractic treatment Routine X-rays aren’t recommended for ordinary back or neck pain. Imaging is only arranged when there’s a specific clinical reason. If your history or examination suggests a scan is genuinely warranted, I’ll refer you to your GP or directly to a private facility. If you’ve had relevant imaging in the last two or three years, do bring the images or report with you on your first visit.
What qualifications does a UK chiropractor have?
UK chiropractors must hold a four-to-five-year accredited university degree at Master’s level and must be registered with the General Chiropractic Council to practise. Training covers anatomy, physiology, pathology, diagnosis and radiology, including reading X-rays, MRI and CT scans, alongside supervised clinical practice with real patients. Registered chiropractors are also required to complete annual continuing professional development (CPD) to maintain their registration. I hold GCC registration and am also a member of the British Chiropractic Association (BCA). [8][9]
Is chiropractic regulated?
Yes, by statute, chiropractic is strictly regulated. The General Chiropractic Council (GCC) is the independent regulator established by the Chiropractors Act 1994. It sets standards for education, conduct and practice, maintains the public register of all qualified chiropractors and investigates complaints. This is the same model of statutory regulation that governs doctors and dentists. You can verify any chiropractor’s registration at gcc-uk.org, including mine. [8][9]
What’s the difference between a chiropractor, an osteopath and a physiotherapist?
All three professions treat musculoskeletal problems using manual techniques, with overlapping methods but different traditions and emphases. Chiropractors and osteopaths are both regulated by statute, by the General Chiropractic Council and General Osteopathic Council respectively and both use manipulation as a core technique. Chiropractors are also specifically trained to take and interpret X-rays. Physiotherapists are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council and generally place greater emphasis on rehabilitation exercise; they also form the backbone of NHS musculoskeletal services, whereas chiropractors and osteopaths work almost exclusively in private practice. In practice there is considerable overlap between all three and the best choice often comes down to your specific problem and the individual practitioner. I’m happy to advise honestly on whether I’m the right person to help or to point you elsewhere if someone else would serve you better.
How much does treatment cost?
Each standard chiropractic treatment here at Bournemouth Chiropractic costs £65. Your first visit, which includes the consultation, examination and treatment, is £75. Extended 45-minute or one-hour appointments are also available; please see here for detailed pricing. There are no hidden costs and I don’t sell pre-paid packages. For further reading and lots of useful advice then I suggest a quick read of this blog post which offers lots of information about time frames and subsequent costs as a guide.
Is chiropractic available on the NHS?
Chiropractic isn’t routinely available on the NHS and most people access it privately. In some areas, NHS GPs can refer patients for an initial chiropractic assessment; it’s worth asking your GP whether that’s available locally. Otherwise, you can book directly with the clinic at any time.
Is chiropractic covered by private health insurance?
Most private health insurers cover chiropractic treatment, but policies vary, so check with your insurer before booking. Ask specifically whether chiropractic is included and whether you need pre-authorisation or a GP referral. After each appointment, pay as normal and I’ll provide itemised receipts and any clinical notes your insurer requires. Most claims are uncomplicated once you have the right paperwork. I don’t invoice insurers directly, but if your insurer needs something specific, just let me know and I’ll do what I can.
Is there free parking at the chiropractic clinic?
There’s plenty of free parking on the driveway at the front of the clinic, with additional spaces on Branksome Hill Road. The entrance is level and flat.
Is the clinic fully accessible?
The entrance to Bournemouth Chiropractic is level with flat, wide, plentiful parking right outside. If you have any mobility or access needs, please mention them when you book and I’ll make sure everything is as comfortable and easy as possible for you.
What is your cancellation policy?
I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or rearrange an appointment. This gives me the chance to offer the slot to someone else who needs it. Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice may incur a charge. To cancel or reschedule, call the clinic or send a text message through the website.
Can I have chiropractic treatment during pregnancy?
Yes, chiropractic care is commonly sought during pregnancy, particularly for back and pelvic pain, which affects a significant proportion of women at some point. Gentle manual therapy is a recognised option for managing it. I adjust my techniques and positioning at each stage of pregnancy and I always discuss your individual situation first. Where it would be helpful, I’m happy to liaise with your midwife or GP.
Can children see a chiropractor?
Yes, chiropractic treatment for children is always gentle and adapted to their age and size. I’ll be honest with you about what the evidence does and doesn’t support for younger patients. I focus on musculoskeletal complaints and won’t claim to treat unrelated childhood conditions. If a child’s problem would be better assessed by a GP or paediatrician, I’ll say so.
Is chiropractic suitable for older adults?
Yes, chiropractic can help many older adults with stiffness, joint pain and mobility, using gentler techniques suited to older joints. Osteoporosis becomes more common with age, so I take particular care to screen for it and to modify or avoid certain techniques accordingly. The main goal is usually keeping you mobile and confident in your movement and I’ll tailor everything to you.
Can chiropractic help with sports or dance injuries?
Yes, chiropractic can help with sporting and dance injuries. I work with people at all levels, recreational to competitive. Whether you’re a runner on the seafront, a cyclist or a dancer, I’ll assess the injury, treat what’s appropriate manually and give you the exercises and advice to recover well and reduce the chance of it happening again. Where an injury needs imaging or input from another specialist, I’ll refer you on.
Can long drives and uncomfortable car seats cause back pain?
Most certainly long car journeys in a badly adjusted car seat and an incorrectly positioned headrest can cause a lot of unnecessary back pain and discomfort. I have a dedicated blog post to explain some car seat positioning to minimise pain and help your holiday or working day get off on the right foot, preferably pain free.
where can I locate the medical and academic references for this information?
References
1. NICE. Low back pain and sciatica in over 16s: assessment and management. NICE Guideline NG59. Published 2016, updated 2020. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng59
2. de Zoete A, Innocenti T, Petrozzi MJ, et al. Spinal manipulative therapy for chronic low back pain. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2026;1:CD008112. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD008112.pub3
3. Biller J, Sacco RL, Albuquerque FC, et al. Cervical arterial dissections and association with cervical manipulative therapy. Stroke. 2014;45(10):3155-3174. doi:10.1161/STR.0000000000000016
4. General Chiropractic Council. What we do. https://www.gcc-uk.org/about-us/what-we-do
5. Senstad O, Leboeuf-Yde C, Borchgrevink C. Side-effects of chiropractic spinal manipulation. Scandinavian Journal of Primary Health Care. 1996;14(1):50-53. doi:10.3109/02813439608997068
6. Funabashi M, Pohlman KA, Gorrell LM, et al. Benign adverse events in chiropractic patients. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies. 2020;28:46. doi:10.1186/s12998-020-00336-3
7. Cassidy JD, Boyle E, Côté P, et al. Risk of vertebrobasilar stroke and chiropractic care. Spine. 2008;33(4 Suppl):S176-S183. doi:10.1097/BRS.0b013e3181644600
8. Chiropractors Act 1994. UK Public General Acts. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1994/17
9. General Chiropractic Council. Check the register. https://www.gcc-uk.org
10. British Chiropractic Association. Patient information. https://chiropractic-uk.co.uk
Additional supporting references:
Bryans R, Descarreaux M, Duranleau M, et al. Evidence-based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with headache. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2011;34(5):274-289. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2011.04.008
Gross A, Langevin P, Burnie SJ, et al. Manipulation and mobilisation for neck pain. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2015;9:CD004249. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD004249.pub4
Contact Us
42 Branksome Hill Road
Bournemouth
BH4 9LE
Tel: 01202 937568 Mobile:07970004497
Email: hello@bournemouth-chiropractic.co.uk
Locations We Cover
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Opening hours
Monday to Friday 7.30am – 6pm
Saturday 7.30am – 3pm
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