A chronic spine assessment clinic, which includes triage and assessment to determine if surgery is warranted.
This clinic does not provide conservative treatment. Conservative treatment options should be trialed at least 3 months prior to a referral. They include physiotherapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, aquasize, core strengthening exercise and pain management. If applicable, weight loss and smoking cessation should be addressed. Clinical staff do not provide prescriptions, or second opinions. Referrals for tumors and acute fractures and other urgent conditions requiring diagnosis / treatment should be directed to a Spine Surgeon instead.
Clinical assessment appointments are provided to patients who are agreeable to surgery, have trialed conservative treatment for at least 3 months, have clinical signs and symptoms, and have evidence on diagnostic imaging supporting the protocol for surgery.
If the Spine Surgeons offer surgery, the surgical bookings are then arranged through the surgeons office.