Research studies and reviews increasingly show that chiropractic services are clinically effective, safe, and cost-efficient, especially in treating chronic pain and musculoskeletal issues. In fact, each year, over 35 million people seek chiropractic care. Despite the proven success of chiropractors over the years, there are still many myths and misconceptions that surround the practice. Let's examine some of the most common myths and debunk them one at a time.
Myth 1: Chiropractors are not properly trained
One common myth is that chiropractors do not have to undergo a significant amount of training. Most chiropractors hold four-year undergraduate degree in a science field like biology, kinesiology, physics or chemistry. After obtaining their bachelor’s degree, chiropractors must be accepted and attend a graduate program in chiropractic care, which involves an average of 4,000 instructional credit hours. A chiropractic graduate program involves classroom instruction in spinal anatomy, pathology, image interpretation, integrated chiropractic care and pediatrics. Most graduate degrees also include a clinical internship where students study under a trained chiropractor and complete rotations in a hospital or clinic.
Myth 2: Once you see a chiropractor, you have to go forever!
Another common myth is that once you see a chiropractor, you must continue going forever. Where does this myth originate? A possible reason is that some people are misinformed about the purpose of a chiropractor. Some think that the body continues to “pop out” of alignment, so repeat visits to a chiropractor are necessary to “fix” what is constantly unstable in your joints. The truth is that our bodies are amazing and once a misalignment is treated, it’s not likely to “undo” without significant trauma. Chiropractic care is not a quick fix – instead, it is a tool to help alleviate aches and pains that impact the musculoskeletal system. The active care people receive from chiropractors helps them best if it is incorporated into a lifestyle of behavioral habits that support the body’s overall health.
Myth 3: Chiropractors are not real doctors
Many may see the value of chiropractors but do not consider them part of the mainstream healthcare system. For half a century, chiropractors were regarded as the modern-day equivalent of witch doctors. In 1992, the Supreme Court found the American Medical Association (AMA), and other organizations, guilty of conspiring against the chiropractic profession. Since the 1990s, however, there has been a significant shift in perspective on the value of chiropractic care. Today, chiropractors are the third largest group of healthcare providers (after physicians and dentists) who treat patients directly. AMA policy now states that it is ethical for physicians to refer patients to chiropractors for diagnostic or therapeutic services. Chiropractic services are covered by most health insurance plans, including Medicare, and are generally considered extremely beneficial, if not vital, as part of an overall healthcare plan, especially when treating injuries and other musculoskeletal pain.
Myth 4: Chiropractic Care Can Cure All Ailments
Chiropractic care can lead to improvements in many aspects of health including immunity, breathing, allergies, and mobility by addressing issues related to the spine and nervous system. Chiropractic care is focused on the structure of the body, particularly the spine, and a trained chiropractor can adjust the body's alignment to relieve pain, improve function and help the body heal itself. However, chiropractic care is not a cure-all for every ailment. Chiropractors do not prescribe drugs or do surgery. Chiropractic care is not a replacement for medical treatment of conditions like infections, cancer, or severe diseases.
Many misconceptions surrounding chiropractic care stem from outdated information or a lack of understanding about the field. Increasingly, research has shed light on the benefits and safety of chiropractic treatments. At Legacy Chiropractic, our team can help you separate fact from fiction, ensuring you are more informed as you make choices for your own personal healthcare and pain management strategies.
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