Chiropractic care helps people of all ages to relieve aches and pains associated with nerve damage, tight muscles, and poor posture. About 35 million US citizens receive chiropractic care annually, and these people experience immediate pain and strain relief after the procedure.
Unfortunately, when it comes to chiropractic treatment, there are a lot of inaccuracies and misunderstandings that leave people confused as to whether the procedure really is helpful or not. Despite its proven effectivity, a lot of people still worry about its risks.
If you are planning to have a chiropractic procedure to relieve muscle pain, here are some of the most common chiropractic myths and the truth behind it:
1. Chiropractic Care is Expensive
This is the most common misconception when it comes to chiropractic care. Most people think that a single treatment is much more expensive than other medical procedures. However, if you compare the cost of an adjustment to a single visit to the doctor, a chiropractor actually charges less.
Not only does it cost much less than a visit to the doctor, it can actually save you more money by helping you avoid expensive treatments in the long run.
2. Chiropractic Treatments are Dangerous
The main purpose of chiropractic treatments is to align the neck or spine to relieve pain. This leads people to believe that such procedures are dangerous and painful. The truth is, chiropractic care provides a safer form of pain management. There are also very few chiropractic injuries recorded. Although a small number of people may have experienced a stroke after chiropractic treatment, this risk is nothing compared to the millions who are hospitalized due to drug reactions every year.
When compared to surgery, chiropractic care is far safer. Studies show that about 2% of patients die within 30 days of undergoing a surgical procedure. There are a lot of risks linked to medical treatments, but chiropractic care is usually safer than others.
3. Chiropractors Are Not Real Doctors
One of the most common questions when it comes to chiropractic treatment is, “Are chiropractors real?” There is a misconception that chiropractors are less qualified than other doctors, and that they are not real doctors at all.
This is false. Just like medical doctors, chiropractors have to complete a four-year degree, a doctorate degree for another four to five years of studying, and pass a state and national board certification in order to get their license and perform chiropractic procedures.
4. Chiropractic Treatments Are Not for Children
Chiropractic care is absolutely safe for kids. It is actually proven that a child may receive a chiropractic adjustment in order to make their growth and development better and healthier. A very young child, or even a baby, can have an adjustment.
If you are unsure if your child needs chiropractic attention, you can bring them in for a consultation first, and ask the chiropractor what procedure will be best for them.
6. Chiropractors Can Only Treat Back Pain
One of the many myths about chiropractic care is that it can only relieve back pain. While it is true that chiropractors usually treat back and neck pain, there are other conditions and physical issues they can also fix.
Chiropractors can help with wrist pain, knee pain, leg and foot cramps, headaches, nausea, and difficulty breathing.
7. Once You Start Seeing a Chiropractor, You Need to Keep Coming Back
This is one of the most common myths about chiropractic care – that you will need to keep coming back. Although timelines and a recommended number of sessions do exist and are needed for each treatment, it is the patient’s choice if they want to come back and pursue the treatment or not.
During the consultation, a chiropractor will do a physical assessment and a history examination to figure out what causes the pain or dysfunction in your body. After the assessment, you will be diagnosed and given a treatment plan. The number of sessions and visits will be stated in the treatment plan. This is to make sure that your body is responding positively to the procedure.
The number of sessions and visits may vary depending on your condition, but the decision will always be yours. If you wish to stop the treatment, it will be done accordingly. Also, if you have any questions regarding the treatment you are having, it is important that you are comfortable with your chiropractor and voice your concerns about the procedure.
Now that you know the most common chiropractic facts and myths, you may be considering going for a consultation. Advanced Chiropractors Group will guide you with all your chiropractic needs. If you are looking for a chiropractor for consultation and treatment, we will connect you with the best one in your area. Call us now!