Business Profile: Plymouth Chiropractic Clinic

At Plymouth Chiropractic Clinic, your health is their number one priority. Based on Mannamead Road, this friendly, approachable team of professionals pride themselves on the family feel of their clinic and the welcoming, kind hearted nature of their staff. We chat with Jonathan Cook- Doctor of Chiropractic at the clinic, to learn a little more about the family practice.

Based just a 10 minute drive from the city centre, Plymouth Chiropractic Clinic is conveniently located in Hartley- in a converted Edwardian House with its own off street parking. The team believe that a patient responds better to their care if they know exactly what is going on with their health, and how Chiropractic may be able to help them. This belief, coupled with on site digital X-ray equipment and ongoing professional research in the field- means that they go above and beyond to exceed their patient’s expectations.

Plymouth Chiropractic is a well established family practice that has been operating in the Plymouth area for the last 45 years

Originally established by Ken and Elisabeth Whittingham, the clinic has been based at the Edwardian House in its current location since 1983. All three of Ken and Elisabeth’s children are Chiropractors; Yvonne practising in Sweden, Bruce in Australia, and Wayne Whittingham has continued the family business as the Principal Chiropractor here in Plymouth. Today, the Plymouth Chiropractic team consists of 5 University Trained Chiropractors and 12 friendly front of house staff.

Jonathan Cook, a Doctor of Chiropractic who has been with the business since 2009, explains that he always knew he would end up in some kind of healthcare profession, but struggled to find inspiration in any mainstream occupations.

“I didn’t really know about Chiropractic until my dad went to visit one. I discovered more at a UCAS Open Day in Exeter, and was fascinated by its approach. After completing a 4 year course I became qualified with a Masters Degree in Chiropractic”. Jonathan also has a Licentiate member status from the Royal College of Chiropractors.

Jonathan immediately admired the Chiropractic approach to healthcare; putting a patient in charge of their own health and allowing them to make decisions for themselves.

“The most motivating part of my job is watching a patient’s health flourish. It’s so rewarding seeing people’s lives change. Many people end up having to stop certain hobbies that they loved, or have to restrict their normal lives before coming to see us. People think its normal that they can no longer exercise, or play with their kids- or to have to rely on pain medication to get through the day. It’s exciting and inspiring to see them regain control of their health- to see people smile and get their life back is very rewarding”.

The team of Chiropractors at the Plymouth Clinic are trained to diagnose, treat, manage and prevent disorder of the musculoskeletal system, as well as the effects these disorders can have on the nervous system to improve your overall health. Chiropractic treatment works by correcting abnormal movement patterns within the vertebrae of the spine. Jonathan explains that this is done through a series of gentle Chiropractic adjustments, individually tailored to each patient’s specific needs across an affordable programme of care.

“The objective of any treatment is to reduce the subluxation (misalignment) with the goal of increasing the range of motion, reduce nerve irritability, improving function and ultimately improving quality of life”.

“Whilst new research is constantly being published, there is a high level of research that shows Chiropractic helps with complaints such as neck pain, lower back pain, joint pain, headaches, migraines, sports injuries and sciatica” says Jonathan. A full consultation will enable the Chiropractor to ascertain whether treatment will help with a particular complaint.

All five of the Chiropractors at the Plymouth Clinic, including Jonathan Cook are registered with the General Chiropractic Council and the United Chiropractic Association. The clinic has been recognised for its outstanding service by the Royal College of Chiropractors, and has been awarded both the PPQM (Patient Partnership Quality Mark) and the CMQM (Clinical Management Quality Mark). Jonathan explains that Plymouth Chiropractic Clinic also has official research status, meaning the qualified Chiropractors can conduct their own research and publish the results. As part of his continued professional development, Jonathan dedicates his time writing research papers for journals, having recently been published in Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Paediatrics.

Within the industry, new research is always being carried out so we are constantly learning. At Plymouth Chiropractic we have official research status, meaning we are able to expand on our continual professional development and produce current research for the profession.

Moving onto what you can expect from the clinic, Jonathan tells us that they aim to book an appointment within 24 hours of calling. “At the initial consultation, a patient will be asked to fill out a questionnaire regarding their current complaint and health history. “The Chiropractor will then undertake a physical examination including tests such as postural assessment, range of motion, spinal examination and orthopaedic and neurological tests”.

Plymouth Chiropractic are the only Clinic with onsite X-ray facilities, allowing quick and convenient digital X-rays and radiological reports. They also utilise computerised diagnostic equipment to compliment their thorough physical examinations. “Once we have completed the initial assessment, a report is then written up and the patient will return in a few days to have everything explained to them, in black and white- with a recommended treatment plan” explains Jonathan.

Our personalised, professional service together with the friendly, relaxed and fun atmosphere will make you feel comfortable and cared for, from your first visit and throughout your treatment plan.

The team at the Clinic also host numerous events for chosen charities around Plymouth. The staff nominate a charity and do whatever it takes to raise money for good causes! Principal Chiropractor, Wayne Whittingham recently raised over £300 for the Chestnut Appeal by taking part in the Plymouth Breakwater Swim.

Jonathan explains that the Clinic hopes to add another qualified Chiropractor to their growing team in the near future- further expanding the professional, personalised service they pride themselves on. “We want to continue as we are, helping the people of Plymouth improve their health through Chiropractic care”.

New Patient Procedure: What to expect

On your first appointment with us we would ask you to complete a New Patient Form which covers contact details, current complaint, previous care, any operations or broken bones, and a symptoms survey. You will then be introduced to one of our Chiropractors who will have a chat with you before asking you to change in to a gown which has an opening at the back for a full spinal assessment. During this visit we will assess your range of motion, reflexes, muscle strength and nerve sensation. If necessary we would take x-rays at this point, but only if they are needed.

On your second appointment (which can be as soon as the next day) we will take the time to explain the results of the assessment, and give you our recommendations, and outline a suggested schedule of care. You will have your first Chiropractic Adjustment on this appointment. The fee for the first and second appointments are £45 each, and you will be with us for approximately an hour for each appointment. The fee for x-rays IF needed are £30 each. If needed we normally take two, one from the front and one from the side. The fee for any further appointments is £30.

If you would like to book an appointment, we can normally find a suitable time within 24 hours, or if you would like to discuss this further, please call 01752 770131