MYTHS & MISCONceptions of chiropractic care
Being a chiropractor, I oftentimes get pushback or questioned by individuals outside of the office about chiropractic care. “Does it really work?” “I heard it’s dangerous, is that true?” “I’ll never see a chiropractor because once you start you’ll have to go forever.” “I don’t want to be adjusted so I refuse to see a chiropractor.” The list goes on. Read on to learn about common myths and misconceptions about chiropractic care and what the real truth is.
Myth: Chiropractic care is only useful for back pain.
Truth: While back pain is a main issue chiropractors address, there are so many other areas in which we focus. Many individuals I treat come in for headaches, neck pain, shoulder ailments, hip discomfort, knee complaints, ankle/foot conditions, and more. Chiropractors are joint and soft tissue specialists, some concentrating more on joints/adjustments and others specializing in soft tissue & muscle movements. Chiropractic care can also contribute to overall wellness and preventative health.
Myth: Chiropractic adjustments are dangerous and may cause strokes.
Truth: Chiropractic adjustments are generally safe when performed by a licensed and trained chiropractor. Serious complications are rare and the risk of stroke is extremely low. Research suggests that the incidence of a stroke from a chiropractic adjustment is similar to the risk associated with other common activities such as visiting your primary care physician. Chiropractors are trained to assess patients and we utilize techniques that are appropriate for each patient and his or her overall health. If you see a chiropractor who does not assess your body or ask medical history questions prior to an adjustment, don’t let him or her adjust you!
Myth: Chiropractors only perform spinal adjustments.
Truth: Chiropractors use a variety of techniques and treatments, including spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, exercise recommendations, nutritional counseling, and lifestyle advice to support overall health. I, personally, focus mainly on soft tissue therapy and muscles movement patterns. I do adjust when needed, but focusing on soft tissue first typically allows joints to move more freely. Each body is different and requires a different treatment method. If you are seeing a chiropractor, be sure he or she assesses your body and completes a history & exam prior to your initial treatment.
Myth: Once you start chiropractic care, you have to continue forever.
Truth: The frequency and duration of chiropractic care depend on an individual's condition and health goals. Some people seek short-term relief, while others choose ongoing care for maintenance and wellness. Treatment plans are personalized and can be adjusted as needed.
Myth: Chiropractors can "fix" conditions in one visit.
Truth: While some patients experience remarkable improvement after a single visit, most conditions require a series of treatments to achieve lasting improvement. This is significantly dependent on what an individual is presenting with and what his/her goals are. Usually, more than one visit is required especially if you have never seen a chiropractor or if it’s a new complaint.
Myth: Chiropractors do not collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
Truth: Many chiropractors work closely with other healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, physical therapists, and specialists. We often take a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, ensuring comprehensive treatment plans. I have several patients who have been referred for advanced imaging (MRI, CT, etc.) and have also been referred to other healthcare providers. It’s a team approach to make sure you receive the best and most thorough care!
Myth: Chiropractors are not real doctors.
Truth: Chiropractors are licensed healthcare professionals who undergo extensive education and training. In the United States, we must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree, which typically requires four years of postgraduate education, including both classroom and clinical training.
Myth: Chiropractic care is not based on science and research.
Truth: Chiropractic care is grounded in scientific principles and supported by a growing body of research. Studies have shown the effectiveness of chiropractic treatment for conditions like low back pain, neck pain, and headaches. There have been studies completed for decades and the research base is constantly growing, proving the benefit and effectiveness for chiropractic care.
All in all, chiropractic care has proven to be safe and effective so long as you are being treated by a licensed and trained individual. My goal as a chiropractor is to help educate the public and encourage more people to consider chiropractic care as a safe and effective option for managing their health.
Any questions? Feel free to reach out to our office via phone or text: (310) 880-9663. Happy healing!
Disclaimer: The information provided on this chiropractic blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Reliance on any information provided by this blog is solely at your own risk.