Common Myths/Misconceptions About Chiropractic Care
Updated: Sep 13, 2021
Written by: Dr. Randy Busch
01/20/2021
(Find him by clicking HERE!)
Since starting practice in 2019, I’ve heard it all! Chiropractors only ‘crack bones’ right? Once I start going, isn’t it true I have to go for life? Those chiropractic adjustments that I see, those look like they hurt!
It’s time to dispel some of these myths and misconceptions about chiropractic in general! Below are the top 5 chiropractic myths and the information you need to know to dispel some of these rumor's!
MYTH #1: Chiropractors are not ‘real’ doctors
Chiropractors are regulated health care professionals that have completed a minimum of 7 years of post-secondary education to obtain their title, “Doctor of Chiropractic”. As a profession, chiropractors are designated to use the title ‘doctor’, similar to physicians, optometrists, and dentists. Chiropractors undergo extensive training in their area of expertise to be able to communicate a diagnosis… this is what makes a doctor a doctor!
MYTH #2: Adjustments are painful
In general, adjustments (also called joint manipulation) DO NOT hurt. In fact many patients report pain RELIEF. Patients may often be nervous that the chiropractor is going to ‘crack their bones’, but in reality the sound you hear during an adjustment is just nitrogen gas being released much similar to opening up a can of pop!
MYTH #3: Once you go to the chiropractor, you have to keep going
Simply put, this is just not true. Based on patient preference and chiropractor experience, BOTH the patient and the chiropractor will make a determination of the frequency and duration of care.
There are 3 mains types of chiropractic care:
Pain relief/acute care: The chiropractor may recommend 1-2 appointments per week to decrease pain, inflammation, and get you feeling better!
Maintenance care: Once the pain and inflammation have been decreased, the chiropractor may recommend a less frequent appointment frequency to maintain your health.
Preventative care: This is the type of care where the patient has no pain at all but wants to optimize their health. I recommend 1x/month as a reasonable frequency of care, much like going to your dentist on a regular basis!
MYTH #4: You need a referral from your GP to see a chiropractor
This is incorrect! Chiropractors are regulated health care practitioners, meaning you do not need a referral from a medical doctor to see us!
MYTH #5: Chiropractors only treat back pain