Chiropractic care is sought out by millions of Americans each year, but there are many who avoid it simply because of misinformation and pure myths about what it does and if it helps. There is often doubt about the effectiveness of chiropractic and the credibility of the professionals trained in its field. Fortunately, there have been plenty of studies about chiropractic that throw these myths right out the window.
Chiropractic Isn’t Safe
Some people believe that chiropractic care isn’t safe because of the adjustments that push joints back into place. These adjustments can create loud popping sounds and symptoms of the flu that could make anyone second-guess their effectiveness — but these are actually all signs that treatment is working. That popping sound you hear is just gas being released from within joints, which also releases toxins that have been storing up. As far as pain treatment goes, chiropractic care is one of the safest. Treatments are always tailored to each individual’s problems, and some chiropractors work with special cases, like pregnant women or patients who have been recently injured.
Chiropractors Aren’t Doctors
This is actually true. Chiropractors aren’t the same as medical doctors, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have to go through the right hoops in order to practice professionally. A chiropractor, on average, has to attend a four-year college, attend graduate school afterward and complete hand-on clinics. Some may go on to get certified in specialized fields of chiropractic. You shouldn’t need to doubt a chiropractor’s credibility, but you can always ask for their records and history to be sure.
Treatments Are Painful
Most patients report feeling considerably better almost immediately following a chiropractic adjustment and no pain during the treatment. Chiropractic shouldn’t cause pain. If it does, you can work with your chiropractor to incorporate different treatments that address your problems in a gentler manner.
Chiropractic Only Treats Back Pain
Back pain is the most common reason people see a chiropractor, as it’s also one of the most common forms of pain suffered by Americans. There are plenty of other chiropractic treatments though. This includes neck pain, headaches, other misaligned joints (such as the shoulders or hips), imbalanced muscle groups and joints that have lost their full range of motion. Many people turn to chiropractic when chronic pain persists past all other treatment options.
Chiropractic care is a great way to avoid surgeries and medication. You can always ask your doctor for a referral to a good chiropractor. Contact a chiropractic clinic, like a chiropractor at Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, to schedule an appointment.