Why is it called McTimoney Chiropractic? What is it?

This method of chiropractic was developed by John McTimoney in Oxfordshire over 50 years ago and is only taught at the McTimoney College of Chiropractic in Abingdon.  The McTimoney adjustments are low force and comfortable to receive.  They all rely on especially fast, yet tiny movements that do not create the ‘cracking’ often associated with chiropractic.  The key to the success of these adjustments is the speed, dexterity, and accuracy with which they are performed. Another characteristic of the McTimoney approach is that the whole body is assessed and adjusted, not just the area where pain has eventually appeared.  This means that people often notice additional unexpected benefits.

What conditions do you treat?

I effectively treat people with a range of problems such as

Problems can arise from movements that are too fast (e.g. jolt, trauma) or too forceful (e.g. heavy lifting, whiplash) or from muscles gradually becoming imbalanced exerting abnormal pull on the bones to which they attach (e.g. poor posture, asymmetrical sports, occupation).

How much does it cost?

Initial consultation and treatment (90 minutes):  £55

Follow-up appointments (45 minutes):   £38

Spine and pelvis checks: FREE

I offer concessionary rates for children, older people, students and unemployed people.

Please pay by cash or cheque.

What will happen at the first appointment?

I allow 90 minutes for the first appointment as this will include an assessment and treatment. Subsequent appointments will last 45 minutes.

At the first appointment I will talk to you about the reason you have come and obtain a full description of your symptoms.  I will take a full health history and carry out a physical examination to make sure that chiropractic is suitable for you and that there is no underlying medical cause of your problem; and to determine the treatment you need.  Then I will use the McTimoney techniques to make the necessary adjustments to your bones and joints. 

I may also give you postural, lifestyle and rehabilitation advice to minimise the recurrence of your problem.

In order for me to feel your bones and joints, you will need to wear light clothing or underwear, or if you prefer, you may wear a gown that I will provide.

How will I feel after a treatment?

This varies from person to person.  As the body realigns with chiropractic care, some people may feel tired or stiff the following day, especially after the first treatment.  It is important to take care of your body for a couple of days after treatment and avoid sport, lifting and vigorous activity.

How many treatments will I need?

The initial aim of the treatment plan is to reduce the level of your symptoms.  The number of sessions you will need depends on the nature of your problem, how long you have had it, your general health, occupation and lifestyle and how you respond to treatment. A straightforward, recent problem will respond more quickly than a long standing one.  One treatment is unlikely to be enough.  Typically, people find 2-6 sessions sufficient, but everyone is different.  Appointments are weekly to begin with, becoming less frequent.

The longer term aim is to prevent recurrence.  Chiropractors find that the body benefits from having periodic chiropractic care on a preventative basis so that recurrence or incipient problems may be avoided.  Therefore, after a course of treatment has finished, I will discuss with you an appropriate maintenance programme.

Is the treatment suitable for people of any age?

The light nature of the adjustments means that the approach is suitable for all age groups from children to the old and frail.  It is also suitable for pregnant women. I cannot reduce degenerative changes in older people but can help ensure that joints function as well as possible.

What can I do to help myself?

Exercise and good posture are important in maintaining mobility and function.  I suggest Pilates for strengthening the core stability muscles; gentle yoga for developing strength and flexibility; Alexander Technique for posture. 

What is the difference between chiropractic and osteopathy?

Chiropractic originates from the USA whereas osteopathy originates from this country.  In general, osteopathy tends to apply long lever techniques if the spine is manipulated, whilst chiropractic applies short levers in a precise adjustment of the individual vertebrae.

Useful links

The McTimoney Chiropractic Association http://www.mctimoneychiropractic.org/

The McTimoney College of Chiropractic http://www.mctimoney-college.ac.uk/

The General Chiropractic Council http://www.gcc-uk.org/page.cfm

The Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique http://www.stat.org.uk/

Unit 4 Yoga and Natural Health Centre http://www.unit4brighton.co.uk/

Movement and Health http://www.movementandhealth.co.uk/