Meet Dr. Nicholas, a dedicated chiropractor and certified nutritionist committed to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a holistic approach. By combining expert spinal care with personalised nutrition plans, Dr. Nicholas addresses the root causes of health issues, promoting lasting wellness from the inside out.
Whether alleviating pain, improving mobility, or guiding clients toward better dietary choices, Dr. Nicholas empowers others to take charge of their well-being, blending science, care, and a passion for healthy living. Read his story on how he got started.
What inspired you to pursue chiropractic care as a profession, and how did that lead to starting your own practice?
It’s a very interesting question because it’s been a long journey. I started as a chiropractic patient, searching for ways to help my back. Back then, I constantly faced back and neck problems, waking up with aches every day. I visited my family physician and even specialists, but they couldn’t help me.
Later, I was introduced to chiropractic care. After a series of adjustments, my pain disappeared. This was eye-opening. That’s when I realised the profound potential of chiropractic care. Since chiropractic education wasn’t available in Singapore, I went to the US and enrolled at Palmer College of Chiropractic. There, I met chiropractors with many years of experience—some with over 40 years in practice. Their stories inspired me, whether it was about the philosophy, science, or art of chiropractic care, or even the business aspect.
I realised the best way to make a difference was to start my own practice. This allowed me to set my own standards and create an environment that reflected my vision.
What were the biggest challenges you faced when you first started your practice?
One of the biggest challenges was helping people understand what chiropractic care is all about. Many were used to taking painkillers or seeing Western doctors, so introducing them to this new “adjustment” concept was a hurdle.
Convincing people that chiropractic adjustments could complement their wellness and health routines took time. But once they experienced the benefits, they kept coming back.
How did you differentiate your practice in a competitive healthcare market, and what sets your clinic apart?
Chiropractic care has many variations; it’s been around for over 100 years with thousands of different techniques. Initially, I practiced a traditional form of chiropractic care. Then, I met my teacher, Dr. Peter Goldman, who introduced me to the Zone Chiropractic technique.
This method was unlike anything I had encountered. After studying with him—taking both his basic and advanced courses and mentoring under him—I knew this was the approach I wanted to adopt. In Singapore, no one else was practicing Zone Chiropractic, so I decided to specialise in it.
What strategies did you use to build a strong client base in the early stages of your practice?
I’ve always been good with people, so I reached out to my networks—friends from primary school, secondary school, polytechnic, the army, university, and even former colleagues.
When I first opened, many of them came to support me. Word of mouth played a big role; friends referred their family and other friends. My family was surprised, saying, “Wow, I didn’t know you knew so many people!” I didn’t use any specific strategy—I just spoke sincerely from the heart, and people responded to that.
Through continuous education and outreach, I aim to double the number of people who understand and benefit from chiropractic care, ultimately helping alleviate pain and improve the quality of life for many.
You mentioned Zone Chiropractic treatments earlier. Can you share more about what it entails?
Zone Chiropractic is different because it operates on the assumption that the root of many problems may lie in the brain. In 1931, Dr. Thurman Fleet, the founder of Zone Chiropractic, identified six locations at the back of the head.
By pressing these points, we determine which area is most painful and focus adjustments accordingly. The goal is to restore communication between the brain and spine. Once the zones are clear, the body can begin to heal itself.
I understand that you’re also a certified nutritionist. How do you integrate nutritional guidance into your chiropractic treatments?
Yes, I earned my bachelor’s degree in Nutrition from the University of Newcastle. Nutrition plays a huge role in overall health—after all, you are what you eat. However, most people don’t always share the full truth about their diets.
It’s like being a detective; I ask detailed questions to identify what they’re eating that might be causing problems. Chiropractic adjustments are powerful, but they’re not a cure-all. Eating well complements the adjustments to achieve optimal health.
Can you share one success story where your chiropractic treatment significantly improved a patient’s health?
There are many stories, but one stands out. A woman in her 70s came in with her grandson. She was skeptical, even though someone had recommended me. For the first few visits, she didn’t feel any improvement. I encouraged her to trust the process, and her grandson did the same.
Around her 10th visit, she suddenly reported that her pain had significantly decreased, and she felt more energetic. She had tried everything—physiotherapy, Western doctors, specialists—none of which helped. She was amazed and even hugged me, expressing her gratitude. She told me in Chinese, “I don’t know what you’re doing, but keep doing it. You need to help more people like me.”
What lessons have you learned from managing your chiropractic business that you wish you knew when you started?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is the significance of sales and marketing. Regardless of the business you’re in, you must be an effective salesperson and marketer. Building a strong sales funnel and mastering the art of closing sales are crucial.
You could be the best chiropractor in the world, but if you can’t market your services or convert leads into clients, your business won’t survive. It’s a constant process of improvement. I remind myself regularly to enhance my marketing and sales skills.
How has the field of chiropractic care changed since you started your practice, and how have you adapted?
Since I started, there have been significant global changes, like the COVID-19 pandemic, which required us to adapt by implementing mask mandates and stricter hygiene protocols. These challenges forced us to rethink how we interact with clients and deliver proper care.
Thankfully, those restrictions have eased, but the key lesson is adaptability. Beyond external changes, the field itself evolves through research and advancements.
Staying updated is essential, which is why I consistently review research papers and join global chiropractic communities. Being part of these communities allows me to learn from others, share my own experiences, and collectively grow. This collaborative approach helps us stay ahead and provide the best care possible.
What advice would you give to aspiring chiropractors considering opening their own clinic?
My advice is simple: If you’ve invested time and money in chiropractic college, eventually aim to open your own clinic. Don’t be afraid of the challenges. Stay grounded in the core principles of chiropractic care—philosophy, science, and art.
Learn from as many experienced practitioners as possible and develop a compelling chiropractic story and a strong personal “why.” Once you understand your purpose, the “how” becomes much easier.
Where do you see yourself and what’s your vision for Singapore in the next five years?
In five years, I see myself continuing to help Singaporeans elevate their consciousness through chiropractic care, particularly Zone Chiropractic. My goal is to position chiropractic care not just as an alternative or complementary medicine but as a mainstream healthcare option.
For Singapore, my vision is for more people to embrace holistic health practices. I hope to see a significant increase in awareness and acceptance of complementary and alternative medicine. Through continuous education and outreach, I aim to double the number of people who understand and benefit from chiropractic care, ultimately helping alleviate pain and improve the quality of life for many.
Connect with Dr Nicholas: Dr Chiro.
Dr. Chiro
52 Blair Rd, Singapore 089952
