Chiropractic treatment deals with simple cases such as back pain to the most severe instances of spinal misalignment. However, there are still a lot of myths about chiropractors today.
Chiropractors play significant roles in the U.S. health care system. However, there are still a lot of myths that surround the practice today, despite the continued expansion of this branch of treatment.
Unfortunately, some of these myths about chiropractic care can prevent patients from getting the treatment they need. This guide aims to debunk the most common myths and finally uncover the truth:
1. Going to a chiropractor is a lifelong commitment
You’ve probably heard that once you go to a chiropractor, you have to keep going back. This is not true. When you go to a chiropractor, they will assess your condition and determine the proper course of treatment for your case. From that, they will schedule you for initial visits to see if you respond to the procedure.
The number of visits you make will depend on the severity of your condition. For example, a person with acute back pain will definitely make fewer visits to a Lehi chiropractor than an auto accident victim. So, while it’s true that some patients will have to go back frequently, it’s not going to be forever.
2. An adjustment is painful
You’ve probably seen manual chiropractic adjustment videos on the Internet already. They look painful (with the sounds of cracking and popping, yes, it does look painful), but in fact, patients feel significant relief afterwards. The cracking and popping noises are believed to stem from the air or bubbles that surround our joints; it’s perfectly normal and definitely not anything to worry about.
3. Chiropractors are not ‘real’ doctors
It’s time to get rid of the notion that physicians are what should be considered ‘real’ doctors only. The title of ‘doctor’ can be used in many other professions–in fact, any person with a doctorate holds the title of ‘doctor.’ And yes, that includes chiropractors. Chiropractors must complete a four-year, post-graduate Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree and pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NCBE) exam to earn a license.
4. You must get a referral from your physician
You don’t need to get a referral from your medical doctor to go to a chiropractor. Because chiropractors are trained to diagnose just like a medical doctor, they are considered as primary contact providers. This means that you can go to them directly for treatment. However, if your insurance requires that you get a referral first to receive coverage, you can visit your primary doctor beforehand.
In case the treatment you need can be found somewhere else, a chiropractor will refer you to another specialist.
5. Chiropractic treatment is dangerous
This myth is the source of fear for many people, and it’s time to set things straight: Chiropractic treatment is not dangerous. In fact, it is less risky and less invasive than other medical procedures.
For example, a chiropractic spinal adjustment holds much less risk than undergoing surgery, not to mention all the medication involved afterwards.
Chiropractic care can provide many benefits for people suffering from pain, spinal misalignment, and a myriad of other muscular and skeletal problems. Now that the common myths are debunked, don’t hesitate to see a chiropractor when you need one.
