Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, many bulging or herniated discs can heal without surgery. Conservative treatments like spinal decompression, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications can promote healing by reducing inflammation and relieving pressure on the affected nerves.

Discover how our evidence-based treatments at our Malvern clinic can help you recover naturally and effectively. Book an appointment today!

Non-surgical treatments include spinal decompression therapy, targeted exercises, manual therapy, and anti-inflammatory strategies. Cox® Technic, is a gentle, non-surgical, research-backed spinal decompression method, and is particularly effective in relieving spinal pain and promoting healing.

Experience the benefits of the Cox® Technic at our Malvern clinic. Book your consultation now to start your journey to recovery.

Healing time varies depending on the severity of the disc bulge and individual factors like age, lifestyle and activity level. Our goal in using Cox® Technic is to get you out of pain as soon as possible. With appropriate care, many people see improvement within a few days to weeks.

Let us help you get the best outcome with personalised care at our Malvern clinic. Book an appointment today!

Disc bulges or herniations are often caused by repetitive strain, poor posture, heavy lifting, or age-related degeneration. These factors weaken the disc structure, making it more prone to injury.

Address the root cause of your pain with expert care at our Malvern clinic. Book your consultation now!

Symptoms may include lower back pain, sciatica (pain radiating down the leg), numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the legs.

Don’t let lumbar disc herniation hold you back. Visit our Malvern clinic for effective, non-surgical relief.

Cervical disc herniation can cause neck pain, radiating pain into the shoulders or arms, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the upper limbs.

Find relief from cervical disc herniation at our Malvern clinic. Book your appointment today!

On an MRI, a disc bulge appears as an outward protrusion of the disc material beyond its normal boundary. It may compress nearby nerves, which can explain your symptoms.

If you’ve been diagnosed with a disc bulge, our Malvern clinic offers advanced care to help you recover. Book a consultation now!

Surgery is typically considered only when conservative treatments fail to gain the expected outcomes, or if there are severe symptoms like loss of bladder control or significant muscle weakness.

Before considering surgery, explore non-invasive options at our Malvern clinic. Book your consultation today to learn more.

The fastest recovery involves diagnosis and treatment that works. This can be a combination of rest, targeted exercises, and non-surgical treatments like the Cox® Technic, which gently and effectively decompresses the spine and promotes healing.

Start your recovery journey today with expert care at our Malvern clinic. Book an appointment now!

Common symptoms include sharp or shooting pain in the lower back, buttocks, and legs, as well as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg. Our clinic offers personalised assessments to identify the root cause of your symptoms and develop a tailored treatment plan using evidence-based techniques like Cox® Technic.

Diagnosing sciatica involves a thorough physical examination, a review of your medical history, and, if necessary, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs. At Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic, our experienced practitioners use these tools to pinpoint the cause of your sciatica and recommend the most effective non-surgical treatment options.

Non-surgical treatments available at our clinic include the Cox® Flexion-Distraction Technique, which is a gentle, hands-on spinal decompression method designed to reduce nerve compression and improve mobility. We also incorporate targeted rehabilitation exercises, core strengthening programs, and lifestyle advice to support long-term recovery and prevent recurrence.

Yes, Cox® Technic is highly effective for treating sciatica. This evidence-based chiropractic method uses doctor controlled, gentle spinal decompression to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Studies have shown that this technique can significantly improve pain levels and physical function without the need for surgery.

Surgery is typically considered a last resort for sciatica and is only recommended in cases of severe pain, significant weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control. At Malvern Chiropractic Clinic, we focus on conservative care first, as research indicates that non-surgical treatments like Cox® Technic can effectively manage sciatica in the majority of cases.

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. With consistent care, including Cox® Flexion-Distraction Therapy and a commitment to prescribed rehabilitation exercises, many patients experience significant improvement within weeks to months. Our practitioners will guide you through every step of your recovery journey.

Preventing or managing sciatica involves maintaining a healthy weight, practising good posture, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding prolonged sitting. At Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic, we provide personalised advice on lifestyle modifications and exercises to strengthen your core and support spinal health, reducing the risk of future flare-ups.

Cox® Technic is a safe and gentle treatment method with minimal risks or side effects. Unlike surgery, it does not involve incisions or anaesthetics, and it is well-tolerated by most patients. Our practitioners are certified in this technique and will ensure your treatment is both effective and comfortable.

While sciatica can recur, adopting a proactive approach to spinal health can significantly reduce the risk. At Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic, we emphasise long-term care, including regular spinal check-ups, targeted exercises, and lifestyle adjustments, to help you maintain a pain-free and active lifestyle.

Cox® Technic is a non-surgical spinal decompression method that uses gentle, controlled movements to reduce pressure on spinal nerves, widen the spinal canal, and improve overall spinal function. This evidence-based technique is particularly effective for conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica, offering relief without the risks associated with surgery.

In many cases, non-surgical treatments can be just as effective as surgery, especially for conditions like spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and chronic back pain. Research shows that conservative care, including the Cox® Technic, can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life for most patients, often eliminating the need for surgery.

Non-surgical treatments can address a wide range of spinal conditions, including herniated discs, bulging discs, spinal stenosis, sciatica, spondylolisthesis, and degenerative disc disease. At Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic , we tailor our care plans to each patient’s unique needs, focusing on long-term relief and functional improvement.

Non-surgical treatments offer numerous benefits, including reduced risks, no recovery time, and a focus on addressing the root cause of your pain. Cox® Technic, for example, is a safe and gentle method that promotes natural healing, improves spinal health, and helps you return to your daily activities without the downtime associated with surgery.

The timeline for improvement varies depending on the severity of your condition and your adherence to the treatment plan. Many patients experience relief within a few days or weeks of starting Cox® Flexion-Distraction Therapy and prescribed rehabilitation exercises. Our practitioners will work closely with you to monitor your progress and adjust your care as needed.

Yes, non-surgical treatments like Cox® Technic are safe and minimally invasive. Unlike surgery, they do not involve anaesthetics, incisions, or lengthy recovery periods. At Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic , our certified practitioners ensure that your treatment is both effective and comfortable, tailored to your specific needs.

Exercise is a crucial component of non-surgical spinal care. Targeted rehabilitation exercises strengthen the core, improve flexibility, and support spinal health, reducing the risk of future injuries. Our practitioners at Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic will design a personalised exercise program to complement your Cox® Technic treatments and enhance your recovery.

Non-surgical treatments should be considered as the first line of care for most spinal conditions, especially if your symptoms are not severe or life-threatening. Surgery is typically reserved for cases involving significant nerve damage, loss of bladder or bowel control, or debilitating pain that does not respond to conservative care. At Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic, we prioritise non-surgical solutions to help you avoid unnecessary risks.

Yes, adopting a proactive approach to spinal health through non-surgical treatments can significantly reduce the likelihood of needing surgery in the future. Regular spinal check-ups, Cox® Technic treatments, and targeted exercises can help maintain spinal health, manage chronic conditions, and prevent symptom recurrence.

Spinal stenosis is commonly caused by age-related degenerative changes, such as osteoarthritis, herniated discs, or thickened ligaments. Other causes include congenital spinal abnormalities, injuries, or conditions like spondylolisthesis. Our practitioners at Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic focus on identifying the root cause of your stenosis to create a personalised treatment plan.

Symptoms of spinal stenosis can include back or neck pain, numbness, tingling, weakness in the arms or legs, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods. In severe cases, it may lead to bowel or bladder dysfunction. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, our clinic offers evidence-based, non-surgical solutions to help manage your condition.

Diagnosing spinal stenosis involves a comprehensive physical examination, a review of your medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. At Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic, we use these tools to accurately assess your condition and recommend the most effective treatment options.

Non-surgical treatments at our clinic include the Cox® Flexion-Distraction Technic, a gentle spinal decompression method designed to relieve nerve compression and improve mobility. We also offer targeted rehabilitation exercises, core strengthening programs, and lifestyle advice to support long-term recovery and prevent symptom recurrence.

Cox® Technic is a proven, evidence-based chiropractic method that uses gentle, controlled spinal decompression to widen the spinal canal and reduce pressure on nerves. This technique not only alleviates pain but also improves function and mobility, making it an effective treatment for spinal stenosis without the need for surgery.

Surgery is typically considered only in severe cases of spinal stenosis, such as when there is significant nerve damage, loss of bladder or bowel control, or debilitating pain that does not respond to conservative care. At Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic, we prioritise non-surgical treatments like the Cox® Technic, which research shows can effectively manage symptoms for most patients.

The timeline for improvement varies depending on the severity of your condition and your commitment to the treatment plan. Many patients experience relief within weeks to months of starting Cox® Flexion-Distraction Therapy and prescribed rehabilitation exercises. Our practitioners will work closely with you to monitor your progress and adjust your care as needed.

Cox® Technic is a safe and gentle treatment method with minimal risks or side effects. Unlike surgery, it does not involve incisions, anaesthetics, or lengthy recovery periods. Our certified practitioners ensure that your treatment is both effective and comfortable, tailored to your specific needs.

While spinal stenosis is a chronic condition, adopting a proactive approach to spinal health can significantly reduce the risk of symptom recurrence. At Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic, we emphasise long-term care, including regular spinal check-ups, targeted exercises, and lifestyle modifications, to help you maintain a pain-free and active lifestyle.

Cox® Technic is recognised as one of the leading, evidence-based approaches in chiropractic care. It is a low-force, non-surgical, and non-invasive, doctor-controlled spinal therapy designed to provide gentle, safe, and effective relief for spinal pain.

Cox® Flexion-Distraction and Spinal Disc Decompression Therapy are specifically engineered to assist patients experiencing various forms of spinal pain by reducing discomfort and helping them regain control of their daily lives. This therapeutic approach is not only effective for alleviating pain but is also considered a recognised alternative to spinal surgery for certain spinal conditions.

For more detailed information about Cox® Technic, please visit our Cox® Technic page.

Chiropractors in Australia adhere to strict regulations and standards to become registered healthcare providers. Australian Chiropractors undertake an accredited 5-year Chiropractic Program at an Australian University or an accredited overseas Chiropractic Program and complete all the requirements to register in Australia as set forth by the Chiropractic Board of Australia.

Once students have completed the intensive 5-year program and fulfilled all the requirements for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), Chiropractors are eligible to work in private practices anywhere in Australia. Registered Australian Chiropractors must also complete yearly Continuing Profession Development (CDP) as a requirement of their ongoing registration.

At Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic, the Cox® certified Chiropractors undertake additional post-graduate studies in the USA in Cox® Flexion-Distraction and Spinal Disc Decompression therapy.

Cox® Technic is dedicated to improving patients’ quality of life and enhancing their ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). The Cox® Flexion-Distraction and Spinal Decompression approaches target back pain in a pragmatic and effective manner.

While each patient’s response to treatment can vary, our objective is to achieve a 50% reduction in pain within 4 to 6 weeks of initiating therapy, depending on the specific condition being treated. Typically, patients start to experience some pain relief and improvement within 7 to 10 days after beginning Cox® therapy.

Cox® Flexion-Distraction and Spinal Disc Decompression Therapy are gentle, doctor-controlled techniques designed to provide effective spinal care without causing pain. For patients undergoing treatment, the experience is typically described as a deep, mild stretching sensation rather than discomfort.

While there may be slight discomfort at times, the overall feeling should be relaxing and relieving. Importantly, the procedure involves no sudden or quick movements, and patients will not hear any cracking noises during the therapy.

To see a demonstration of how Cox® Technic is performed, please click here.

A thorough physical, neurological, and orthopedic examination is conducted at the initial consultation. Our Cox® Technic Certified Chiropractors will then review any associated spinal imaging that may be provided at the initial consultation (if no imaging is provided, patients may be referred for spinal imaging, i.e., x-ray or MRI). Finally, they will discuss the treatment plan and how Cox® Technic can provide spinal decompression and pain relief.

It is at the Practitioner’s discretion whether treatment will commence on the first appointment. Usually, if patients are referred off for x-rays or scans, informed treatment can begin at the subsequent consultation once all the necessary diagnostic requirements have been obtained. Please allow 30-45 minutes to complete your initial consultation.

You do not require a referral or Private Health Insurance to visit a Chiropractor to help with your spinal pain condition.

Your consultation may be covered under your private health insurance depending on your level of cover.

Yes, Medicare rebates are available. In order to receive a Medicare rebate for a Chiropractic consultation, you will need to obtain an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) Plan (formally known as Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan) from your General Practitioner (GP).

Speak to your General practitioner or Chiropractor to find out more.

Cox® Flexion-Distraction treatment is gentle, low-force and non-invasive, with outstanding and quantifiable results. It is a recognised alternative to spinal surgery with more than 50 years of documented clinical outcomes. Cox® Technic is an appropriate treatment for all ages, from the elderly to the very young.

The Rule of 50% guides the expected outcomes of care under Cox® Technic protocols. Our goal is always to get you out of pain and improving as quickly as possible.  As a guide, and depending on the condition, we expect 50% improvement to occur within 4-6 weeks of care.

Our Cox® Technic Certified Chiropractors are continually assessing and noting the progress of your spinal pain condition at each appointment. There are many vital factors that they are monitoring throughout your treatment plan, and questions about your current pain level or how much improvement has been made are critical questions that they use to determine your progress and improvement.

Consultation fees for our Chiropractors vary according to age, concession eligibility and health insurance status. We accept all private health insurance and offer on site rebates via Hicaps, so you will only pay the gap or out of pocket portion of your consultation fee.

We also accept TAC, WorkCover and DVA patients. Please contact our Reception to discuss our fee structure or for further information.

See Can I get a Medicare rebate for my Chiropractic appointment? for further information on how to get a Medicare rebate for your appointment.

Pregnancy-related back pain is a common complaint among pregnant women. It can potentially have a negative impact on the quality of life.

The Cox® Certified Chiropractors at Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic have successfully treated pregnant patients experiencing low back and pelvic pain.

Pregnant patients are treated with modified Cox® Flexion-Distraction therapy with the patient positioned side-lying on the specialised Cox® Table. This treatment style can be used from the beginning of the 2nd trimester to term. Modified Cox® Technic is gentle, safe and effective for all expectant mothers, gently relieving the pressure on the spine and pelvis, which is caused by the mechanical strain of the pregnancy.

You do not need to have x-rays or scans before attending our clinic. Our Chiropractors can refer patients for spinal X-rays (Medicare Bulk Billed) and MRI scans (non-Medicare Bulk Billed) depending on their spinal condition.

We have a local network of trusted referral clinics to refer you to; however, you may take any referral to any radiology clinic in Melbourne. X-rays are usually a clinic walk-in service, but please call ahead to confirm if you need clarification. MRI scans require an appointment. Please speak to your Chiropractor about what scans are necessary for your condition and its diagnosis

Yes, our practitioners have all the necessary  qualifications and TAC,workcover and DVA patients are all supported at our clinic.

Yes! Persistent lower back and extremity pain following spinal surgery is reported in up to 50% of patients. These signs and symptoms have been associated with Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), formally known as Post-Surgical Continued Pain (PSCP) Syndrome. Please see our information page for more details and how Cox® Flexion-Distraction and Spinal Disc Decompression is a safe, gentle and effective therapy after spinal surgery.

Accurate diagnosis of a spinal condition is critical to the treatment and recovery journey.  We see many patients who have never had an accurate diagnosis and as a consequence have had their condition exacerbated by “treatment” or simply not improved.  Our expertise lies in accurately diagnosing and treating each spinal condition.  See our page on Spinal Disc Bulges for more information about how we assess, diagnose and use Cox® Technic to help patients successfully manage their spinal  condition.

Exercise is an integral part of the rehabilitation process. The Cox® Certified Chiropractors at Malvern Chiropractic Clinic and Melbourne Spine Clinic will prescribe specific spinal stretches and strengthening exercises at key points in your treatment plan to help reinforce the therapy and continue to relieve your spinal pain.

We welcome new patients to the clinic.

There are multiple ways to contact the clinic:

• Call us on 03 9822 1835
• Email us at: info@malvernchiropracticclinic.com.au and we’ll call you back
• Book online at www.melbournespineclinic.com.au – please note, if you book online, we’ll need to give you a call back prior to your appointment to gather some details about your condition

All patients can use the online booking system to make, view and change appointments.

Yes. We have parking available on-site for our patients. Parking spots are located at the rear of the clinic for small to medium vehicles and out the front for larger ones. Street parking is also available, but please observe parking restrictions and clearway zones.

No, there is no charge for not attending or a late change to your appointment. If you are running late or can’t make it, we appreciate if you can let us know by emailing or calling  reception on (03) 9822 1835 as soon as you can. We will happily reschedule you to a convenient time.