Chiropractic care has been around for over a century, helping people find relief from pain and improve their overall health. Most people think and believe different misconceptions about chiropractors from either bad experiences, what they read about in the news, or from other health care professionals.  Because of the lack of information being provided, many Chicagoans and Lincoln Parkers do not see a chiropractor out of fear, and/or misinformation.  This post helps to break down some of the most common myths about chiropractic care and set the record straight.

Myth #1: Chiropractors Aren’t Real Doctors

Chiropractors are licensed healthcare professionals who undergo extensive education and training. You have to have a bachelor’s degree in order to attend a chiropractic school and once there, it is a 4-5 year program year-round to complete and earn  a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree.  The training encompasses coursework in a variety of subjects, including gross anatomy (with lab dissection), physiology, neurology, radiology, and hands-on clinical experience.  Clinical experience is gained in the the last 2 years of one’s education treating patients in the community under the supervision of a licensed chiropractor associated with the chiropractic college.  This allows to have student doctors learn gain vital experience and tools before leaving the academic space to treat patients in the state where you decide to finally work once you’ve obtained your chiropractic state license to practice chiropractic medicine.

Myth #2: Chiropractic Adjustments Are Dangerous

When performed by a licensed chiropractor, spinal adjustments are generally safe and effective. Chiropractors are trained to identify when an adjustment is appropriate and when other medical interventions may be necessary. For most patients, chiropractic care offers a safe alternative to medications or invasive procedures.  The recent research indicates that injury from a neck manipulation is 1 in 1.8 million adjustments.  Chiropractors have the ability to recognize, and perform specific tests to ensure that a patient is a candidate for treatment to avoid possible injury, and disability.

Myth #3: Once You Start Chiropractic Care, You Have to Keep Going (or Go Forever)

Many people seek out chiropractic care initially for their pain and may continue care as part of their wellness routine, but it’s not required. Treatment plans are individualized and customized to each person’s injury (or injuries)—some people find relief after just a few visits, while others choose to maintain regular care to maintain and support posture, mobility, and injury prevention.  As part of the report of findings following one’s initial consultation/examination, chiropractors discuss both short-term and long-term goals and objectives to help with your pain and injuries.  This allows the patient to understand the directives for what their care may entail while receiving chiropractic treatment.

Myth #4: Chiropractors Only Treat Neck & Back Pain

Chiropractors are best known for treating neck and back pain, but also, they help with a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including hip, shoulder, and ankle pain, headaches, sciatica, wear-and-tear arthritis (AKA osteoarthritis) and more. Additionally, chiropractors offer guidance on posture, ergonomics, exercise, and lifestyle to support whole-body wellness through corrective exercises, and supplementation in one’s diet.

Myth #5: Chiropractic Adjustments Are Painful

Most chiropractic adjustments are not painful. In fact, many patients experience immediate relief after an adjustment. A popping sound may be heard during the adjustments, which involves releasing pressure via nitrogen gas in the fluid of the joint (which involves 2 bones connected to one another).  Depending on how long one suffered an injury or injuries (acute vs. chronic), the initial treatment may result in some soreness from not having chiropractic treatment before.  When one receives an adjustment, gas is releasing from the joint over the fluid that moves this area—not bones cracking.

Final Thoughts

Chiropractic care is a safe, evidence-informed, and effective option for many individuals seeking relief from pain and improved function. If you’ve been hesitant due to myths or misinformation, consider speaking directly with a chiropractor to get accurate answers and see if it’s right for you.

You may also like other useful articles:

When Should You Visit a Chiropractor for Neck and/or Back Pain… Get Help Now!
Active Release Techniques Explained: Benefits, Process, and What to Expect
What to Expect at Your 1st Chiropractic Visit (if You Have Never been)