Do you really know what’s true or false when you hear myths about chiropractic care?
As happens with many holistic health therapies, the value of chiropractic care has been clouded by myths and misconceptions. Unfortunately, these unfounded ideas have prevented many people from getting the care they needed to thrive – and could be holding you back, too. Ready to learn the truth about chiropractic care? Let’s bust some misconceptions and learn chiropractic myth or fact!
Chiropractic Myths: Fact Checked & Busted
MYTH #1: Chiropractors aren’t really doctors.
Chiropractic care is now considered a mainstream option for health care. Still, there is some lingering confusion about whether chiropractors are doctors and what kind of training they have.
FACT: Chiropractors are doctors.
Chiropractors are not medical doctors (MD), but they are considered doctors (DC) by federal law and primary care providers in some states.
Becoming a chiropractor is no easy task. Chiropractors go through rigorous chiropractic training and general medical education. After graduating from a 3-4 year program (with equivalent classroom hours as medical doctors), they must pass a national board exam and earn a license to practice.
Once actively practicing, chiropractors must continue their education with ongoing training and courses to stay current with modern practices, techniques, and health care research.
In essence, chiropractors are as educated and skilled in their unique fields and specialties as medical doctors are in theirs. You’re in educated, trusted hands!
MYTH #2: Chiropractic care is dangerous.
You’ve heard that chiropractic can have some side effects, but is it true? The safe reputation of chiropractic care has been tarnished by poorly-trained practitioners and those using aggressive neck manipulation. In extremely rare instances, this technique has impacted a nearby artery and caused a stroke.
FACT: Chiropractic is a safe and low-risk therapy.
It’s natural to worry about the safety of therapies and medical procedures. In fact, you should always weigh the risks with any medical procedure you seek out. Issues like stroke and injury are extremely rare and not a concern for those seeking care from a well-trained, licensed professional.
In reality, chiropractic is one of the safest health care options available. It has been proven safer and has fewer side effects than other go-to pain relief treatments like pain medications and surgery.
With AlignLife, you can rest assured: your safety is our top priority. Our chiropractors are highly trained and equipped to provide you with effective treatment and excellent care.
MYTH #3: Chiropractic adjustments hurt.
Cracking bones and popping joints sounds like it’s painful. But is it?
FACT: Adjustments can be slightly uncomfortable but never painful.
Have you ever cracked your knuckles? Getting an adjustment is a little like that. You may feel a sensation, but it’s not particularly painful. In fact, many people even enjoy the sensation of getting adjusted.
During a chiropractic adjustment, gases move through the fluid in your joints which often causes a loud popping or cracking sound. This sound might seem extreme, but it’s completely normal and does not mean the adjustment was painful.
Adjustments also involve stretching, manipulating, and massaging sore muscles and joints. While these treatments may cause momentary discomfort (like the soreness after a big workout), this fades quickly and soon leaves you feeling rejuvenated and even energized.
MYTH #4: Chiropractors just treat pain.
Chiropractors are known for getting great results for pain relief and helping their patients get back to enjoying the active lives they love. But that’s not where the benefits of chiropractic stop!
FACT: Chiropractors can help manage a wide range of conditions.
Chiropractors are experts in pain management, but they can also help you manage your other health concerns. This is because the nerves that innervate the various organs and organ systems originate in the spine.
When there is an imbalance or blockage in the spine or near the spinal nerve, those organ systems suffer. By relieving the pressure and guiding the body back into alignment with adjustments, you can overcome common health issues like headaches, digestive upset, infertility, and more.
AlignLife Chiropractors are also experts in living a well-rounded, healthy life. We can help you make smart decisions about diet, sleep, supplements, exercise, and more to give you a holistic approach to healthy living.
MYTH #5: Chiropractic is only for adults.
Chiropractic sounds like an amazing natural therapy, but it must only be safe for adults, right? Wrong.
FACT: All ages can benefit from chiropractic care.
Nearly anyone can receive chiropractic care to relieve pain, improve mobility, and improve their overall health.
Why use chiropractic to help your baby or child? Chiropractic can help babies thrive post-birth, align misplaced vertebrae, ease colic, and enhance their development.
For children, chiropractic can relieve headaches, improve posture imbalances, and manage cognitive challenges like ADHD. Athletic kids love chiropractic as it helps them stay on top of their game and injury-free.
Our AlignLife chiropractors are trained to care for all ages, and some even hold specialties for infant, pediatric, or pregnancy care.
MYTH #6: Chiropractic is costly.
Worried a trip to the chiropractor might cost you an arm and a leg? It might be more affordable than you think.
FACT: Chiropractic care often ranges from $40-70 per visit.
Chiropractic care is one of the more affordable holistic health care treatments, averaging about $50 per visit. These days, several health insurance plans even cover the cost of chiropractic care.
Seeing a chiropractor is an investment in your health. Routine care can help you stay healthy and save you thousands of dollars in health care costs down the road. Studies show that those who receive regular chiropractic care spend 85% less on pharmaceuticals and have 60% fewer hospital visits.
Check with your insurance company to find out if chiropractic care is covered on your plan, or reach out to your local AlignLife Practice to learn about available payment plan options.
MYTH #7: If you start going, you will never stop
Many people hesitate to get the chiropractic help they need because they’re worried they’re signing up for a lifetime of visits. That couldn’t be further from the truth!
FACT: Chiropractic care plans vary based on your body’s needs.
At AlignLife, our chiropractic care plans are designed to help you recover as thoroughly as possible, so you don’t have to rely on an adjustment to get through the day. You’ll also be equipped with the strategic supplements your body needs to heal faster, like Aceva’s Mobility for pain and joint health.
But, healing takes time. To ensure we fix the root cause of your pain and restore the normal functioning of your body, we create focused care plans over a few weeks or months based on your condition. Acute injuries are often resolved in a few treatments and don’t always need follow-up care. Chronic issues, however, may require a longer care period to make lasting progress.
Then, many people will move on to a maintenance plan once their condition has improved. This could include monthly visits, quarterly visits, or adjustments as needed to keep them on track and prevent future issues. Maintenance plans solidify your treatment and give your body the best chance of total recovery.
While most of our patients continue to get adjustments for routine care, know that you are always in the driver’s seat of your health. Your AlignLife chiropractor will recommend the care plan schedule that is best designed to get the relief you need, but in the end, you are the one who decides whether you want to continue your chiropractic visits and how often.
Restore Your Health with a Visit to AlignLife
It’s a smart move to be skeptical of any health care claim, and you should always do your research before jumping into any new plan, treatment, or product.
Now that these myths are busted, we hope you feel confident and empowered to try chiropractic to overcome your biggest health concerns.
Ready to jumpstart your health with a customized care plan from one of our AlignLife Chiropractors? Click here to find your local practice and book your first visit!
