SUSTAIN HEALTH
FAQs
Chiropractic
Some traditional chiropractors only work on spinal manipulation. However in line with the current evidence based practice, spinal mobilizations and a range of treatment modalities eg: dry needling, soft tissue technique are also used by Chiropractors at SustainHealth.
Yes. You need to go to your GP to get a referral.
Yes it is safe to have Chiropractic treatments whilst pregnant. The developing foetus is well protected in its uterine bubble of amniotic fluid. Adjustments to the spine and pelvis do not interfere with this and there are many other techniques we can use that are safe.
Acupuncture complements Chiropractic to help with the rehabilitation process. They benefit each other to maximise the treatment that you are receiving.
Just as with any treatment, there is a possibility of adverse reaction after Chiropractic adjustments, but the adverse events are generally very mild e.g. soreness after treatment. And with severe adverse events, they are very rare. Our Chiropractors will discuss this in detail and obtain your informed consent prior to any treatment given.
Chinese Medicine
It depends on the progress of your condition. The Chinese herbs that you take will change according to your condition. And once it is managed there can be a maintenance prescription of herbal medicine that is ongoing.
There is no need to boil or cook them. They are conveniently pre boiled and cooked. You will only be required to mix the Chinese herbs with some hot water to drink.
The taste of the Chinese herbs can initially be too “strong”. We recommend trying to mix in some honey with it. If it is still difficult to drink, inform your practitioner. Most patients over time will get used to the taste.
It is not unusual to experience some digestive symptoms initially as your system is adjusting to the Chinese herbs. In the rare case that you experience any severe symptoms, stop taking the Chinese herbs and contact your practitioner.
We have a range of natural herbs that are derived from plant products. We also have Chinese herbs that are minerals and animals by-products.
Neuro
This will depend on how you respond to treatment. More severe and long standing conditions require more time. Generally for neurological conditions it takes a few years. However you should be able to see positive improvements within a month's time.
Neuro-Acupuncture involves working with the brain, central nervous system and neurological responses. Achieved through scalp acupuncture, body acupuncture, ear acupuncture and navel acupuncture.
Yes. We have wheelchair access via our backdoor of the clinic which is accessed via our Yarra Street car park. Call reception to find out more details on how to access.
This is an exciting area of research that is well established. There are many countries such as China, Taiwan and America that incorporate acupuncture treatment programs in their hospitals. To see the latest research on acupuncture for neurological conditions head to our neurological articles.
At this stage, there is mixed information on acupuncture covered by NDIS. We have neurological and disability patients who can access some benefits from NDIS. Give us a call, our friendly reception staff should be able to answer your questions in more detail.
First Visit
Depending on what treatment you are receiving but generally you should expect to see positive improvements within the first 3 treatments
Yes, all our modalities (Acupuncture and Chiropractor) are covered by private health insurance. Whether you are covered for a particular modality will depend on your private health insurance coverage.
Yes. If you have any results or referral letters please attach them when you fill out your new patient form. Alternatively you can bring them in with you for your first visit.
You will walk out with a clear next step. Our practitioners will outline a treatment plan for you to achieve your health goals.
First Visit: How to Prepare
We recommend you wear loose and comfortable clothing for your acupuncture session. If your practitioner needs to access a point on your leg, for example, it is easier if you have pants that can be loosely rolled up. Comfortable clothing is also easier to relax in during a treatment and when you are relaxed you will receive the full benefits of the acupuncture.
Yes. Make sure you have a little food. We don’t recommend that you come in with an empty stomach.
Yes. Once you book your appointment in, our friendly staff will direct you to fill out the form online.
First Visit: Getting There
Yes. We have wheelchair access via our backdoor of the clinic which is accessed via our Yarra Street car park. Call reception to find out more details on how to access.
Please allow extra time on your first visit to find the best parking option for you. There is limited free and paid parking available on York Street in front of the clinic. Alternatively there is limited free parking available in the underground carpark at South Melbourne Central on Cecil Street. Please be aware this carpark is a 5-7 minute walk from the clinic
Simply catch the No 12 Tram and get off at Stop 12 York Street/Clarendon Street. Walk down York St for 2 minutes until you reach our clinic entrance.
Alternatively you can catch No 58 and get off at Stop 117 York Street. Walk up York St for 4 minutes until you reach our clinic entrance
Acupuncture
This will depend on your rate of response to treatments. Our Acupuncturists will determine if you are a fast responder or a slow responder and outline a treatment plan for you. We are committed to help you commit to your treatment plan by offering treatment packages. Ask one of our friendly staff for more information.
We recommend you wear loose and comfortable clothing for your acupuncture session. If your practitioner needs to access a point on your leg, for example, it is easier if you have pants that can be loosely rolled up. Comfortable clothing is also easier to relax in during a treatment.
Acupuncture is meant to be as painless as possible. Patients note either a dull sensation or slight pinch when the superfine needles used in acupuncture are inserted into points on the body.
The frequency of visits depends on the nature of your condition and the response you have to treatment. Typically we suggest two to three times a week for the first few weeks to stabilise the condition and then once a week for the duration of the treatment plan. Once the treatment plan has been completed your practitioner may suggest you continue with monthly maintenance sessions.
You should generally expect to see positive improvements in the first 3 sessions. Following on your initial appointment, your practitioner will outline a treatment plan for you and continually assess it based on your progress.
Yes. Acupuncture is covered under private health insurance. However whether you are covered will depend on your level of coverage from your private health fund. We recommend looking at your private health insurance coverage.