Even though chiropractors provide one of the leading forms of preventative and conservative healthcare worldwide, there are plenty of misconceptions about chiropractic care. While some of the inaccurate information might be well-intentioned, in most cases, it does more harm than good.
Unfortunately, many myths surrounding chiropractic care prevent people from getting highly effective and conservative treatment for a variety of painful and debilitating physical issues.
What's fact and what's fiction when it comes to chiropractic treatment?
Read on to learn some of the most widespread myths and the truths behind the fallacies.
1. Chiropractic Care Only Helps With Back Problems
Although chiropractors perform spinal adjustments, that's not the only thing they do!
Visiting a chiropractor for regular treatment can also provide long-lasting relief for:
- Headaches
- Shin splints
- Tendonitis
- Frozen shoulder
- IT band syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
- Nerve pain
- Sciatica
The list goes on and on. As a conservative treatment, chiropractic can help alleviate many common aches, pains, and mobility issues outside the spine.
Plus, chiropractic care is one of the best forms of preventative care available and can help keep the body functioning optimally by improving joint alignment, mobility, and systemic nerve function.
Chiropractors also specialize in several other forms of treatment aside from adjustments. Movement-based massage, Graston therapy, Kinesio taping, TENS therapy, and other alternative therapies can help improve or prevent various physical problems.
2. You Can't Get Chiropractic If You've Had Back Surgery
Chiropractic care is never a one-size-fits-all approach. We understand that each person's journey is unique, and many people who've had back surgery can still see a chiropractor for ongoing treatment.
If you've had surgery, it's important to share your health history with your chiropractor so he can develop a suitable treatment plan for your needs. If any part of your spine is unstable or modified in any way, a chiropractor can employ special techniques to ensure it receives the appropriate care.
It's important to note that some people with back surgery shouldn't get chiropractic care. But the only way to determine whether or not it's safe is to get a comprehensive, in-office consultation.
3. Chiropractic Isn't Appropriate for People With Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis does not automatically bar anyone from seeing a chiropractor. Your unique needs and health history will determine whether chiropractic treatment is appropriate for you.
If it isn't, a chiropractor can point you toward other conservative therapies that may help you.
4. Chiropractic Adjustments Are Dangerous
Not so! No one has ever compiled definitive evidence that chiropractic care is less safe than any other treatment modality, and many studies have confirmed this.
Here's a verifiable fact you may not know: Studies have confirmed that taking over-the-counter pain medication can be up to 100 times riskier than seeing a chiropractor for back pain or neck pain.
5. Chiropractic Care Will Loosen Your Spinal Joints
Chiropractic adjustments do not loosen your spine! When you get an adjustment, your chiropractor returns misaligned spinal vertebrae to their proper alignment. He's not loosening up your joints or making them unstable.
The opposite is true.
Properly aligned joints are far more stable than those that have moved out of position, so routine adjustments help the spine and surrounding tissues heal.
Routine care can help improve mobility and overall function since the nerves that supply every part of the body stem from the spine.
6. Science Doesn't Support the Efficacy of Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractors provide evidence-based care, and yes, there is research to support the efficacy of this conservative treatment approach.
If you're curious, check out Evidence-Based Practice and Chiropractic Care from the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine.
7. Chiropractic Care Takes Too Long to Produce Benefits
If you plan to see a chiropractor to address back pain, neck pain, an injury, or any other ailment, your timeframe for results will depend on various factors. What's causing the pain, the length of time you've been in pain, whether you adhere to your treatment plan, and other lifestyle factors all play into your results.
Many people notice a difference after a single treatment, while others take a bit longer. Every person's condition and response to treatment are unique.
8. Spinal Decompression Therapy Is Painful
The notion that spinal decompression therapy is a painful procedure is a common misconception. In reality, it's quite the opposite!
This non-invasive and gentle therapy is designed to alleviate pain, not cause it. Dr. Bomberg utilizes a specialized table with specific stretches to gently move the spine, relieving pressure on nerves and damaged discs without discomfort.
9. Chiropractic Care Is Expensive
There's a widespread belief that chiropractic care comes with a huge cost. However, the reality is quite different. On average, chiropractic care is often more cost-effective than general care, which may not yield sustainable results, particularly for spinal and muscular issues.
At Bomberg Chiropractic, we offer a customized payment plan option. We are also happy to accept HSA or FSA and some insurance providers so our clients can access the care they need without financial strain.
10. Once You Start Chiropractic Care, You Have to Keep Going
One of the most prevalent misconceptions about chiropractic care is that it's a lifelong commitment. This is simply not true. In many cases, even a single treatment can make a significant difference for the patient.
While receiving regular adjustments to maintain your health is beneficial, it's not a requirement. It's a choice, like going to the gym or scheduling routine care visits with your doctor or dentist to support your overall health.
Get Comprehensive Chiropractic Care in New Hope, MN
Whether you're new to chiropractic treatment or looking for a new provider, don't hesitate to get in touch with our team at Bomberg Chiropractic in New Hope, Minnesota! We specialize in comprehensive chiropractic services for athletes, pregnant women, desk workers, and auto accident and workers comp treatment services.
Chiropractic adjustments, massage, Graston Technique, Kinesio taping, and TENS therapy are just a handful of our many services. We develop highly individualized treatment plans for each patient we see.
To get started or learn more about how we can help you, feel free to call our office today at 763-450-1755 or schedule an appointment online. You can also send us a message with your info, and we'll be in touch!