The Top 10 Myths About Chiropractic Care Debunked

Chiropractic medicine has been around for over 125 years. Early on, many doctors dismissed it as quackery. But since then, it’s become a well-respected form of complementary medicine for managing pain.

That’s why every year, roughly 35 million Americans visit a chiropractor. Still, there are a lot of chiropractic myths floating around out there.

Sadly, these misconceptions keep many from seeking care that could offer relief. In this article, we’ll break down the top chiropractic myths – and whether there’s any truth to them.

So if you’re in pain and on the fence about whether to give chiropractic care a try, read on.

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Myth #1: Chiropractic Adjustments Aren’t Safe

Not true. Spinal adjustments are extremely safe when done by a licensed, professional chiropractor.

And compared to medical treatments for pain relief, chiropractic care is a far safer option. Roughly 1 in 4 patients who undergo spinal surgery develop complications. And nearly 2% of patients die within 30 days of having surgery.

Medications aren’t much better. Over-the-counter options like NSAIDs increase the risk of ulcers, heart attacks, and stroke. And prescription painkillers are highly addictive.

Chiropractic care offers a gentler, more natural approach to long-term pain relief – without the scary side effects.

Myth #2: Once You’ve Seen a Chiropractor, You’ll Need to Go Back Forever

Nope. Despite what you may have heard, chiropractic care does not require a lifelong commitment. In fact, many people find relief from just one treatment.

Typically on your first visit, your chiropractor will assess you and recommend a treatment plan. Depending on your condition, you may need to visit more often at first. But most patients find they can taper off chiropractic care over time.

That said, regular adjustments help support a healthy spine to prevent future pain. But how often you visit is totally up to you!

Myth #3: Chiropractic Care is Only for Adults

Not so – chiropractic care is for people of all ages. While adults tend to seek chiropractic care the most, children benefit from treatment as well. Chiropractors just use gentler methods to treat children, since their bodies are more fragile.

All kids sustain their fair share of injuries during childhood. Over time, this can harm their bones and spine. Not to mention, children spend more and more time hunched over screens, which can lead to spinal problems.

Regular chiropractic care can improve children’s posture, so they develop healthy habits for years to come.

Myth #4: Chiropractic Adjustments are Painful

Chiropractic adjustments are associated with popping sounds. So many people assume they’re painful. But chiropractic care is meant to relieve pain, not cause it!

Some people feel immediate relief. Others may feel some discomfort during an adjustment, much like you’d feel from a massage. Some also feel mild muscle soreness after an adjustment.

But any discomfort is short-lived. At Anchored in Health, we also offer other natural pain relief treatments such as massage and acupuncture.

Myth #5: Chiropractors Aren’t ‘Real’ Doctors

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Chiropractors may not have a medical degree – but they are doctors. Like medical doctors, chiropractors go through extensive training.

They study topics such as anatomy, physiology, neurology, radiology, and much more. And all licensed chiropractors undergo 4,485 hours of instruction. Compare that to medical school, which clocks in at 4,248 hours of instruction.

Chiropractors also complete a residency treating real patients under the guidance of a licensed chiropractor. Chiropractic school graduates must also pass four sets of national board exams. They must also pass a state board exam wherever they choose to practice.

So while chiropractors don’t prescribe antibiotics, they are real doctors.

Myth #6: Chiropractic Care is Expensive

Many people hold off getting chiropractic care because they fear the cost. But believe it or not, chiropractic treatment is more affordable than you think.

In fact, chiropractic care for low back pain is roughly 20% cheaper than medical care. That’s why many insurance companies cover chiropractic care, including Medicare.

Of course, it all depends on your plan. It’s best to call your insurance company beforehand to see what they cover.

But you don’t need insurance to afford chiropractic care. At Anchored in Health, our self-pay options are very affordable as well.

Myth #7: Chiropractors Only Treat Back Pain

Yes, chiropractors are experts at treating back pain. But that’s not all they do.

Chiropractic care restores balance to the nervous system. This can improve many ailments including:

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Headaches and migraines
Arthritis
Neck pain
Muscle pain
Shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand pain
Hip, knee, ankle, and foot pain
Fibromyalgia
Scoliosis
Poor posture

If you’re struggling with a health issue and aren’t sure if chiropractic care is a good fit, give us a call. We’ll let you know whether chiropractic may ease your symptoms, or whether physical therapy would be a better choice.

Myth #8: Chiropractors Crack Your Bones

Despite what you may have heard, those popping sounds you hear during an adjustment are NOT your bones cracking!

That sound is actually pockets of air releasing between your joints, much like when you crack your knuckles.

Myth #9: Chiropractic Care Doesn’t Actually Work

Some believe that chiropractic treatments offer nothing but the placebo effect. Yet loads of research show chiropractic care helps people manage pain and recover from injuries.

Many patients turn to chiropractic care as a last-ditch effort to avoid back or neck surgery. Others use chiropractic care as a natural alternative to prescription pain medication.

Either way, chiropractic care is proven to be an effective tool for preventing and managing pain.

Myth #10: I Can Just Give Myself a Spinal Adjustment

Please don’t! Chiropractors undergo years of rigorous training to learn how to adjust the spine in a gentle, effective way.

If you try to adjust yourself, you won’t get the same results – and may end up doing more harm than good.

Get Relief with Chiropractic Care in Orland Park, IL

Whether you’re struggling with back pain, neck pain, or headaches, chiropractic treatments can offer relief. So you can get back to living life again!

At Anchored in Health, our Holistic Chiropractor creates a customized treatment plan for your unique case. You’ll get the perfect blend of therapies to help you find relief.

We offer a bevy of treatments, including spinal manipulation, massage therapy, and acupuncture for comprehensive pain relief.

So, if you’re ready to relieve your pain and improve your health and well-being, follow these steps:

Contact us with questions or to learn more.
Schedule your first appointment with Anchored in Health.
Discover how chiropractic care can relieve your pain and help you achieve optimal health.

Other Health Services Offered at Anchored in Health in Orland Park, IL

Anchored in Health offers a variety of services to help you achieve your health goals. This includes finding the root cause of imbalances with functional medicine, thermography, and genetic testing. We also help foster healthy, nutritious habits with our Shape ReClaimed program. Contact us to learn more!