Can my chiropractor use telehealth to help me during COVID-19?

Do you have acute back, neck or shoulder pain but have not been seeing your chiropractor in recent weeks? Telehealth chiropractic visits may be a way to decrease or manage your pain.

What is telehealth?

Telehealth is a convenient way for you to receive help from your chiropractor (through telephone or video calls) to help diagnose, treat and manage your pain and injuries at a distance.

Is it right for me?

Before making an appointment, it is important to evaluate whether this is right for you.

Things to consider

• Do you have access to the required technology (e.g. a cell phone or a computer/tablet with a webcam)? Do you feel comfortable using it?
• Do you have any physical conditions that will prevent you from being able to use this type of technology (e.g. vision or hearing deficits, physical disabilities)?
• Are you comfortable discussing your healthcare needs with this technology?

What services can I receive?

Your chiropractor may prescribe exercises, modify behaviours that are aggravating your pain, and offer self-management strategies that you can do at home.

What should I expect from a telehealth appointment?

Prior to your visit, your chiropractor will likely provide recommendations on how to make the most of your appointment, including what to wear for ease of movement and visual inspection, and how to set up your space for exercise.

You should expect your chiropractor to conduct a thorough health history to rule out any serious conditions or barriers to recovery.

Your chiropractor will listen attentively to your concerns, health goals and preferences before conducting an examination. During the examination, your chiropractor may observe your posture, range of motion and movement patterns. They may recommend that you have a family member present in case you need support.

Once a diagnosis has been made, your chiropractor can provide information about your condition and offer self-management strategies. After the appointment, they may follow-up as appropriate to evaluate your progress.

How do I prepare for a telehealth visit?

Your chiropractor will send you a checklist before your appointment with their videoconferencing or web conferencing platform requirements.

In some cases, chiropractors are only able to perform telehealth visits with existing patients with whom they have already conducted in-person visits and examinations.

Will my insurance cover a telehealth visit?

As with any chiropractic appointment, you can be charged for a telehealth visit. Currently, the insurance companies accepting billings for chiropractic telehealth visits are:

Even during these challenging times, you are not alone. Talk to a chiropractor today and get relief.