Over the last few years, a number of myths regarding chiropractic medicine have been created. While the majority of these myths have no basis, they do exist and cause some confusion to individuals unfamiliar with chiropractic care. Here we will deal with the three most common myths. They are:
- Spinal Adjustments Hurt
- Chiropractics Only Treat Back
- Chiropractic Care Is Expensive
Spinal Adjustments Hurt
This is quite the contrary. Many patients feel instant relief immediately after their treatments. In fact, most look forward to their future chiropractic treatments. In patients suffering from severe bouts of back or neck pain, some discomfort may be experienced, however, for most patients, this is not the case.
Chiropractors Only Treat Back Pain
Chiropractors provide effective treatment for all types of soft tissue disorders, not just back and neck ailments. This even includes conditions of the joints in the extremities like the ankle, knee and shoulder. What you may not be aware of is chiropractic’s success in treating a number of non-soft tissue conditions like dysmenorrhea, ulcers, migraine headaches, and ear infections in children.
Chiropractic Care Is Expensive
Research clearly disproves this myth. Chiropractic care has been consistently shown to be cost-effective in a number of government and workers’ compensation board studies.
According to one study out of Canada, it was said:
“There would be highly significant cost savings if more management of low-back pain was transferred from physicians to chiropractors… Users of chiropractic care have substantially lower health care costs, especially inpatient costs, than those who use medical care only.”
According to an economic analysis conducted in Richmond, Virginia:
“By every test of cost and effectiveness, the general weight of evidence shows chiropractic to provide important therapeutic benefits, at economical costs. Additionally, these benefits are achieved with apparently minimal, even negligible, impacts on the costs of health insurance.”
Our spinal tissues undergo a daily bombardment of stresses originating from bad postural habits, suboptimal work environments, psychological stress, and hectic lifestyles just to name a few. For these reasons, after the resolution of acute problems patients are given the option to receive periodic spinal checkups which act to minimize the likelihood of future recurrences or the development of new problems.
So as these myths have been put out yet debunked, we at TriMed Spine & Joint do our best to provide top-quality chiropractic care. Our friendly and knowledgeable office can identify your spinal issue and explain why your back or neck hurts. Then we help you find a fix fast.
Please take this information about these myths and share it with others. Thank you for visiting the site. Do you need chiropractic care, spinal decompression, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or interventional pain management? If so, contact us at one of our several South Florida offices.
Common Questions About Chiropractic Myths
Does a chiropractic adjustment hurt?
Most people feel pressure and a brief release rather than pain, and many notice easier movement straight away. Mild soreness for a day afterwards is common, similar to starting a new exercise. Technique and force can be adjusted if anything is uncomfortable.
If I start chiropractic care, do I have to go forever?
No. Care is delivered in a plan with a defined end point and a re-examination. Continuing beyond that is a personal choice, not a requirement.
What is the popping sound during an adjustment?
It is called cavitation. Gas dissolved in the fluid inside the joint changes pressure and forms a bubble, which makes the sound. Nothing is breaking or cracking, and the noise is not a measure of whether the adjustment worked.
Is chiropractic only for back pain?
No. Chiropractors also treat neck pain, headaches, disc and nerve problems, and joint pain in the shoulders, hips, knees and other extremities.
Is chiropractic care safe?
For most people it is, when it follows a proper examination. Risks are low but not zero, which is why history, examination and imaging when indicated come before treatment, and why some conditions rule the treatment out.
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