Get it checked at Bodyline Health, Lower Plenty
We see patients from across the Diamond Valley, including Eltham, Greensborough, Montmorency, Rosanna and Heidelberg. No referral needed, free parking, onsite X-ray when clinically indicated and HICAPS claiming on the spot.
Modern medicine or chiropractor: a guide from the Bodyline Health team at 17 Main Road, Lower Plenty.
Modern medicine or chiropractor – who does what?
Your GP diagnoses and manages medical conditions, prescribes medicines, orders tests, and refers to specialists. They are the right first stop for anything that might be an illness, infection or serious problem.
A chiropractor is a registered practitioner who assesses and manages problems of the spine, joints, muscles and nerves, using hands-on care, exercise and advice. No referral is needed.
When to see a chiropractor first
- Back or neck pain after lifting, gardening or sport
- Stiffness and pain that is worse with certain movements or postures
- Headaches that seem to start in the neck
- Recurring back or neck pain you want to get on top of
A chiropractor will screen for signs that you need to see a doctor and refer you if so.
When to see your GP first
- Pain with fever, unexplained weight loss or feeling unwell
- Pain after a significant fall or accident
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Numbness around the groin, or bladder or bowel changes – these need urgent care
- If you need medicines or a medical certificate
Why modern medicine and chiropractic work best together
Australian guidelines for back pain recommend staying active and exercising, with hands-on therapies as an option and medicines used carefully. Medicine and chiropractic care each have a role.
At Bodyline Health in Lower Plenty, we communicate with your GP when it helps your care, and our onsite Austin Pathology collection centre and onsite X-ray make it easy to get tests done. Read about the benefits of chiropractic and our article on chiropractor or physio.
Avoiding the waiting game
Many people wait for weeks hoping pain will go away. If it is not improving after a week or two, getting it assessed – by your GP or a chiropractor – usually leads to a faster recovery.
Who at Bodyline Health can help?
Because our practitioners work under one roof, your care can be shared between people who talk to each other.
- Dr Phillip Mifsud (Chiropractor): chiropractic assessment and care, working alongside your GP.
- Mary Fleming (Physiotherapist): physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
- Keryn Arrowsmith (Myotherapist): myotherapy for muscle pain.
When to seek urgent medical help
Call 000 or go to an emergency department for chest pain, severe headache with neck stiffness and fever, sudden weakness or numbness, or loss of bladder or bowel control. In an emergency, call 000.
Further reading: Chiropractors and chiropractic treatment (Healthdirect Australia); Back pain (Healthdirect Australia).
Common questions
Do I need a GP referral to see a chiropractor?
No. You can book directly. A GP may refer you under a Chronic Disease Management plan for some Medicare rebates.
Will my chiropractor talk to my GP?
With your consent, yes – when it helps your care.
Can I see both?
Yes. Many people get the best results from shared care.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for individual medical advice. If you are unsure, see your GP or book an assessment.
