Chiropractors have been around for a long time, and as such the odds are that you’ve heard at least one or two Chiropractic Myths over the years. Do any of these sound familiar?
- Having a Spinal Adjustment is Painful
- Getting a Spinal Adjustment is Dangerous
- Chiropractors Aren’t REAL Doctors
- Chiropractors are Expensive
- Once You’ve Had An Adjustment, You’ll Need Them Forever
- Back Pain is the Only Thing a Chiropractor Can Treat
If you’ve heard any of the above, then you have heard a Chiropractic Myth. Let’s address these:
On the contrary, having a spinal adjustment feels wonderful! Many patients feel better immediately after their adjustment, and most look forward to their next visit. In rare, more severe cases there may be some pain, but this is the exception, not the rule.
Extensive studies have been performed showing that chiropractic medicine is one of the safest ways to address back pain. However, if you choose to let a friend or another type of medical professional attempt to perform an adjustment, you’re taking an unnecessary risk. Stick to the professionals.
Actually, they are. Chiropractic education takes 4 years of pre-med undergraduate studies, plus an additional 4 years of study at a chiropractic college. They are trained extensively in the areas of biomechanics, chiropractic techniques, differential diagnosis, neurology, radiology, pathology, anatomy, and physiology. Extensive clinical training, national and state certifications, and yearly ongoing education and training are also required.
Wrong again. Research has shown that chiropractic care is 41.2% less expensive than care from a traditional medical doctor. Furthermore, many chiropractors accept insurance, and many insurance companies cover chiropractic care, making it that much less expensive for the individuals receiving the care.
Actually, no. Spinal Adjustments are intended to help fix immediate problems. Sure, having your back suddenly feels amazing maybe a bit addictive, but the key to an ongoing pain-free life is in preventative care. Healthy eating, exercise, proper posture, and lifting techniques are what will help you most over time. While periodic spinal checkups are recommended, preventative care may minimize the number of spinal adjustments needed.
Back pain may be the most common thing treated by chiropractors, but it is far from the only thing. A chiropractor is trained to handle a wide variety of chiropractic conditions, such as back pain, neck pain, hip pain, shoulder pain, knee pain, ankle pain, and on and on. Chiropractic medicine has been shown to impact migraine headaches, ear infections, colic, gastroesophageal reflux, and more.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to explore our chiropractic FAQ. If you would like to receive a free consultation to determine if chiropractic care is right for you, simply call the number at the top of the page or fill out this short form.
