f.a.q
What is Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic is a regulated health profession that focuses on the assessment and support of the musculoskeletal system, with particular emphasis on the spine and its relationship to nervous system function. Chiropractors use clinical assessment, spinal analysis, and hands-on adjustment techniques to identify areas of dysfunction and address them. At ACC, we use evidence-informed approaches and are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
What conditions can Chiropractic help with?
Chiropractic care is most commonly sought for musculoskeletal complaints including lower back pain, neck pain, headaches, shoulder pain, hip pain, sciatica, and postural concerns. Our chiropractors also have experience with pregnancy-related spinal discomfort and paediatric presentations. Every patient is assessed individually, and we will be honest with you about whether chiropractic is likely to be helpful for your specific situation.
I have never seen a chiropractor — what should I expect at my first visit?
Your first visit includes a thorough health history discussion, a physical examination with postural and orthopaedic testing, X-rays if clinically indicated, a report of findings where your chiropractor explains what they found, and — in most cases — your first adjustment. The appointment typically takes between 40 and 60 minutes. For a detailed walkthrough, see our What to Expect page.
Is chiropractic care safe?
Chiropractic is a regulated profession in Australia. All ACC chiropractors are registered with AHPRA and practise within evidence-informed guidelines. Like any health intervention, chiropractic carries some risks, and your chiropractor will discuss these with you during the informed consent process at your first visit. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, please mention them when booking.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
No. You can book directly with our reception team or online without a GP referral. Some patients bring referral letters from their GP, which can provide useful background — but they are not required.
In Australia, chiropractors are educated in the University sector at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. There is a growing research and evidence base, not only in Australia but throughout international federations. As with other healthcare professions, there are internationally and nationally recognised standards of qualification to enable practice in Australia, and this is part of the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme.
In Australia, chiropractors are educated in the University sector at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. There is a growing research and evidence base, not only in Australia but throughout international federations. As with other healthcare professions, there are internationally and nationally recognised standards of qualification to enable practice in Australia, and this is part of the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme.
How many visits will I need?
This depends on your presentation, how long the problem has been present, your overall health, and how your body responds to care. Your chiropractor will give you an honest and individualised care plan at your first visit. As a general guide, initial care often involves more frequent visits over the first two to four weeks, reducing as your condition improves. We will never recommend more care than we genuinely believe is appropriate for your situation.
What is wellness and maintenance chiropractic care?
Wellness care refers to regular chiropractic visits — typically monthly to quarterly — for patients who are not in acute pain but want to maintain spinal function, address minor issues before they escalate, and support their ongoing health and mobility. Many long-term ACC patients describe wellness care as an important part of how they stay well. It is always optional, and your chiropractor will discuss whether it is likely to be of benefit for your individual situation.
What is the Thompson Technique?
The Thompson Technique is a system of spinal analysis and adjustment developed by Dr J. Clay Thompson that uses a specialised drop-piece treatment table. The table has segmented sections that rise slightly and then drop when a gentle thrust is applied, allowing for precise, low-force adjustments with minimal patient discomfort. The technique emphasises analysis of leg length discrepancy and pelvic balance as indicators of spinal dysfunction. Our principal chiropractor, Dr Charles Kathopoulis, is a certified Thompson Technique practitioner and has lectured both nationally and internationally in the method.
What is Bowen Therapy?
Bowen Therapy is a gentle form of bodywork that involves a series of precise movements over specific muscles and connective tissues to stimulate the body's natural healing response.
How can Myotherapy help me?
Myotherapy focuses on the assessment, treatment, and management of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It involves techniques like deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and stretching to relieve pain and improve mobility.
What should I expect during a massage therapy session?
During a massage therapy session, our skilled therapists will use various techniques to manipulate muscles and soft tissues, aiming to reduce tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.
Do you offer X-Rays and MRIs?
Yes. Both our Albury and Wodonga locations offer in-house X-ray and OPG (dental and jaw) imaging. Our Wodonga clinic also offers musculoskeletal MRI using the Esaote G-Scan low-field system, which is well suited to spine and extremity imaging. Imaging is performed by our qualified Radiographer and reported in partnership with High Street Radiology. Ultrasound and CT services are expected within the next 12 months.
Please note the G-scan has limitations compared to high-field MRI systems. It may not provide the same level of detail for detecting microvascular changes, micro-pathologies, or subtle tissue abnormalities, which can be critical in identifying early-stage cancers, metastases, or other systemic conditions. High-field systems are generally more suitable for imaging organs, brain structures, and conditions requiring fine resolution of soft tissues and blood vessels.
While the G-scan is an excellent tool for many orthopaedic and chiropractic cases, patients with suspected metastatic disease, tumours, or complex systemic pathologies may require referral for high-field MRI imaging to ensure comprehensive diagnostic accuracy. If any such concerns arise, we will guide you toward the appropriate imaging services to address your needs."
Please note the G-scan has limitations compared to high-field MRI systems. It may not provide the same level of detail for detecting microvascular changes, micro-pathologies, or subtle tissue abnormalities, which can be critical in identifying early-stage cancers, metastases, or other systemic conditions. High-field systems are generally more suitable for imaging organs, brain structures, and conditions requiring fine resolution of soft tissues and blood vessels.
While the G-scan is an excellent tool for many orthopaedic and chiropractic cases, patients with suspected metastatic disease, tumours, or complex systemic pathologies may require referral for high-field MRI imaging to ensure comprehensive diagnostic accuracy. If any such concerns arise, we will guide you toward the appropriate imaging services to address your needs."
What is involved in patient rehabilitation?
Patient rehabilitation at our center includes personalised exercise programs, manual therapy, and education to help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions. Our goal is to restore function and enhance quality of life. Talk with Pauline and Nathan about your rehab or fitness goals.
How can chiropractic care benefit athletes?
Chiropractic care can help athletes by improving joint function, reducing pain, enhancing flexibility, and preventing injuries. Regular adjustments can also support optimal performance and quicker recovery.
What services do you offer in your gymnasium?
Our gymnasium provides strength and fitness coaching tailored to individual needs. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, aiming to improve athletic performance, or looking to enhance overall fitness, our certified trainers will create a customised program for you.
How can I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our office at 0260213879 or by visiting our website at www.acchiro.clinic - We’ll be happy to assist you with booking a convenient time.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Missed Appointment Policy
Policy Overview
Advanced Correction Chiropractic and our Allied Health Practitioners value your time and strive to provide high-quality care. Missed appointments disrupt service delivery and may delay care for other patients. To maintain efficiency, we ask that all patients follow this policy regarding cancellations and missed appointments.
Notification Requirements
Patients must provide at least 24 hours' notice if they need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. This allows us to offer the appointment slot to another patient in need.
Cancellations can be made via phone, email, or in person during clinic hours.
Missed Appointment Fees
If a patient fails to attend their appointment without providing the required notice, a missed appointment fee of $50 may apply for consultations.
A missed appointment fee of $100 may apply for imaging sessions such as X-rays or MRIs.
Exceptions will be considered for emergencies or unforeseen circumstances on a case-by-case basis.
Repeated Missed Appointments
Repeated missed appointments may result in a review of the patient’s care arrangement. This includes potential suspension of future bookings until the matter is resolved.
Why This Policy Is Important
This policy ensures fairness to all patients and staff by minimising wasted time and resources. It helps maintain timely access to care for everyone.
Your Responsibilities
Attend scheduled appointments or cancel/reschedule in advance.
Notify us promptly if unforeseen circumstances prevent you from attending.
Contact Details For cancellations or inquiries, please get in touch with us:
Phone: 0260213879
Email: admin.albury@gmail.com
By booking an appointment, you agree to comply with this policy. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Policy Overview
Advanced Correction Chiropractic and our Allied Health Practitioners value your time and strive to provide high-quality care. Missed appointments disrupt service delivery and may delay care for other patients. To maintain efficiency, we ask that all patients follow this policy regarding cancellations and missed appointments.
Notification Requirements
Patients must provide at least 24 hours' notice if they need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. This allows us to offer the appointment slot to another patient in need.
Cancellations can be made via phone, email, or in person during clinic hours.
Missed Appointment Fees
If a patient fails to attend their appointment without providing the required notice, a missed appointment fee of $50 may apply for consultations.
A missed appointment fee of $100 may apply for imaging sessions such as X-rays or MRIs.
Exceptions will be considered for emergencies or unforeseen circumstances on a case-by-case basis.
Repeated Missed Appointments
Repeated missed appointments may result in a review of the patient’s care arrangement. This includes potential suspension of future bookings until the matter is resolved.
Why This Policy Is Important
This policy ensures fairness to all patients and staff by minimising wasted time and resources. It helps maintain timely access to care for everyone.
Your Responsibilities
Attend scheduled appointments or cancel/reschedule in advance.
Notify us promptly if unforeseen circumstances prevent you from attending.
Contact Details For cancellations or inquiries, please get in touch with us:
Phone: 0260213879
Email: admin.albury@gmail.com
By booking an appointment, you agree to comply with this policy. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
For your first appointment, please bring any relevant medical records, imaging results, and a list of current medications. It’s also helpful to wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. Likewise, if attending for spinal scans or MRI, please remove any body piercings and jewellery.
Does insurance cover chiropractic care?
Many insurance plans cover chiropractic care. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage. Our office staff can also assist you with insurance queries and billing.
Furthermore, we treat and manage DVA, Workcover, TAC and are actively involved in Allied Health Plans. PLease speak with your general practitioner as these will require a referral to our centre.
Furthermore, we treat and manage DVA, Workcover, TAC and are actively involved in Allied Health Plans. PLease speak with your general practitioner as these will require a referral to our centre.
For Allied Health Practitioners
If you are an independent allied health practitioner interested in joining the ACC network, here is some information about how we operate.
1. What support do you offer independent practitioners? ACC operates as both a patient-facing clinic and a professional platform for independent allied health practitioners. We offer practitioners a fully equipped clinical environment across two locations, along with professional administration, scheduling support, billing services, and access to a collaborative multidisciplinary team. This model gives practitioners the freedom and focus of private practice without the burden of running all aspects of a clinic independently.
2. Do practitioners retain clinical autonomy? Yes. Independent practitioners at ACC retain full clinical autonomy. You manage your own patient relationships and clinical decisions in accordance with your professional registration and scope of practice. The ACC infrastructure supports your work — it does not direct it. Each practitioner holds their own professional indemnity insurance.
3. Are there professional development opportunities? The ACC team participates in regular case discussions, multidisciplinary round tables, and in-clinic professional development. Our chiropractors each complete at least 50 hours of continuing professional development annually, and the collegial culture of the team naturally creates opportunities for peer learning, cross-referral, and collaboration. Practitioners interested in joining the ACC network are encouraged to make contact to discuss how the model might work for their practice. agent
1. What support do you offer independent practitioners? ACC operates as both a patient-facing clinic and a professional platform for independent allied health practitioners. We offer practitioners a fully equipped clinical environment across two locations, along with professional administration, scheduling support, billing services, and access to a collaborative multidisciplinary team. This model gives practitioners the freedom and focus of private practice without the burden of running all aspects of a clinic independently.
2. Do practitioners retain clinical autonomy? Yes. Independent practitioners at ACC retain full clinical autonomy. You manage your own patient relationships and clinical decisions in accordance with your professional registration and scope of practice. The ACC infrastructure supports your work — it does not direct it. Each practitioner holds their own professional indemnity insurance.
3. Are there professional development opportunities? The ACC team participates in regular case discussions, multidisciplinary round tables, and in-clinic professional development. Our chiropractors each complete at least 50 hours of continuing professional development annually, and the collegial culture of the team naturally creates opportunities for peer learning, cross-referral, and collaboration. Practitioners interested in joining the ACC network are encouraged to make contact to discuss how the model might work for their practice. agent