Frequently Asked Questions

Considering alternative health and treatment options often comes with a variety of questions. Below we try to answer as many of these for you as we can.

 What causes the sound made during a chiropractic adjustment?
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The sound is not your spine “cracking” or “popping”. The sound is created by gas (in this case, nitrogen) rushing in to fill the partial vacuum created when the joints are slightly separated. Another example of this phenomenon would be the “pop” sound you hear when the cork is taken out of a champagne bottle. Not all chiropractic adjusting techniques produce this noise. Contrary to popular belief, this noise is not needed for an adjustment to provide relief to the surrounding tissues.

 Is chiropractic care safe?
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Yes. Scientific research in peer-reviewed medical journals all provides evidence that chiropractic care is one of the safest types of healthcare in the world. Chiropractic care is also safe for children. Techniques are adapted and use less pressure on a child’s body. If you are interested, please ask Dr Izard for further information on this topic.

 Does a chiropractic adjustment hurt?
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No. In fact, an adjustment can relieve a lot of pressure and feels very comfortable. Some patients may experience mild soreness for up to 48 hours after treatment. This soreness feels similar to that after a new type of workout or yoga class. Applying ice for 10-15 minutes after treatment usually relieves this symptom.

 What is an adjustment?
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An adjustment is a gentle, specific force applied to a joint in a precise direction to correct a biomechanical problem. The doctor uses his/her hands to deliver a quick, accurate thrust in order to:

  • Improve joint motion
  • Decrease muscle spasm
  • Provide pain relief
 Is a homeopath the same as a Naturopathic Doctor?
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No. Most homeopathic education programs require just high school education and perhaps some college. Naturopathic doctors have fully completed post-secondary education degrees and are general practitioners of Natural Medicine who may use homeopathy as an element in their vast repository of treatment protocols. Additionally, NDs have many more treatment modalities available to them at their disposal. NDs draw from a wide repertoire of skills including providing a comprehensive clinical diagnosis using instruments and physical examination thereby creating a detailed patient history along with their expertise in trying to uncover any potential hidden conditions in order to try and help develop a treatment strategy for the patient.

 Are Naturopathic Doctors “up-to-date” in their knowledge?
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A fundamental tenet of Naturopathic Medicine is life-long learning. NDs strive to constantly augment their knowledge and skills throughout their career.

 Are Naturopathic Doctors regulated in BC?
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Yes. As indicated by the BC Ministry of Health, Naturopathic medicine has been designated as a health profession since 1936. As of January 1, 2000, Naturopathic medicine has become a designated health profession under the Health Professions Act. The College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia regulates this profession.

 What education does a Naturopathic Doctor have to have?
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Naturopathic physicians require a minimum total of 7 years (more commonly 8 years) of post-secondary education. This includes a completed or mostly complete undergraduate degree at an accredited institution with the last remaining four at an accredited naturopathic medical college for the ND degree. As of this writing, in North America, there are only seven colleges that meet the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME) standards for qualifying ND degrees. Licensure in British Columbia (BC) requires a minimum of four years of full-time Naturopathic study along with substantial clinical clerkship. In BC, all board-certified naturopathic physicians are required to pass clinical board exams set out by the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABNE).

 Are NDs able to do blood work and lab tests?
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Yes. NDs are able to do both. Our clinic is fully equipped to take samples for a significant number of tests including, but not limited to: food allergies, sensitivities, metals, physical functions, toxins etc.

 What coverage is available for Naturopathic care?
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Many extended health plans, including some university and college plans, may provide coverage for Naturopathic treatment. MSP may cover treatment for those who are enrolled in the Premium Assistance Program. Please see your insurance provider for details.

 Are referrals necessary in order to see Naturopathic Doctors?
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No, referrals are not necessary. Please phone the office or use our Contact form to arrange for an appointment.