With the recent passing of April Fools Day, we thought it’d be great to review some things we’ve heard that sound a bit foolish and could use some clearing up. As you know April Fools Day is a day all about practical jokes, silly pranks, and the scheming and planning we do to make them as realistic and convincing as possible. And while it’s great fun to have a day dedicated to fibs and foolishness, there is one thing you shouldn’t be fooled about – your health care. There are many common myths and misconceptions about what chiropractic care is, so we’re going to dedicate this blog to clear them up.
Myth #1: Chiropractors aren’t “real” doctors – Since chiropractors have a more integrated approach to health and well-being, they are mistakenly grouped in with alternative healers and therapists who usually don’t require a degree to practice. Chiropractors are required to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree (DC) and a state license to practice in the United States. Obtaining this degree requires five years of education after earning an undergraduate degree. Similar to the training required for medical degrees, DC students are required to study the basic sciences such as anatomy, physiology, neurology, pathology and pharmacology, before undergoing clinical science training. After that, another year of clinical internships is required to obtain their DC degree. To quote the American Chiropractic Association (ACA):
“Chiropractors are educated in nationally accredited, four-year doctoral graduate school programs through a curriculum that includes a minimum of 4,200 hours of classroom, laboratory and clinical internship, with the average DC program equivalent in classroom hours to allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) medical schools.”
Myth #2: Medical doctors don’t recognize chiropractors – While there may have been some past misgivings in the medical community and attempts to discount it as a bonafide health care practice, chiropractic is now widely recognized as an effective treatment for back pain and other conditions. So much so that The American College of Physicians updated their medical guidelines to suggest that patients with low back pain use various conservative, non-invasive therapies such as spinal manipulation before resorting to painkillers.
Myth #3: Chiropractic Adjustments Are Dangerous – Although adjustments are sometimes uncomfortable, they are not typically painful and they are definitely not dangerous. Sometimes patients are startled by the popping and cracking sounds that occur during an adjustment. They are not the sound of bones cracking but the sound of gas moving through the fluid in your joints when they are moved and stretched. In fact, most patients experience immediate pain relief after their treatment.
Myth # 4: Chiropractors only treat spine and neck issues – While it’s true that the most common ailments that chiropractors treat are back and neck issues, there are many other conditions, problems, and injuries that chiropractors can treat. For example, chiropractors see patients for conditions such as sciatica, migraines, arthritic pain, and sprains or strains. They can also treat colic, constipation, reflux as well as underlying conditions that cause poor sleep and lack of energy. They have also been successful with treating symptoms and behaviors associated with spectrum disorders and conditions such as ADHD.
Myth #4: Chiropractic care is expensive: Since chiropractic care is becoming increasingly recognized as a safe and effective alternative to invasive treatments and drugs as well as preventative care, it is covered by many insurance plans, including Medicare. When compared with the time and expense involved with surgery and rehabilitation, chiropractic care is a much more affordable option.
Myth #6: Chiropractic treatments are only for adults – Chiropractic care is for people of all ages – including infants! Since most chiropractors offer a Wellness Care Program, all members of a family – from children to seniors – can benefit from their care and guidance regarding proper posture, nutrition, and physical and emotional wellness.
If you haven’t been to a chiropractor before, we hope this post has busted some of the common myths and misconceptions. Don’t let false information fool you! Once you experience the whole-person, caring, and individualized approach a chiropractor offers, you’ll wonder why you didn’t go to them sooner!