Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine. It focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromusculoskeletal disorders, primarily through manual manipulation of the spine, physical therapy modalities, and exercise or rehabilitation. Despite its popularity, there are many misconceptions about chiropractic care. These lead to misunderstandings and mistrust. In this blog post, we discuss some of the most common misconceptions about chiropractic care. Accurate information helps you make informed decisions about your healthcare. To get started, contact our chiropractic clinic in Fredericksburg.
Misconception #1: Chiropractic Care Only Treats Back Pain
One of the most common misconceptions about chiropractic care is that it is only used to treat back pain. Yes. Chiropractors alleviate back pain through spinal manipulation, physical therapy modalities, and exercise or rehabilitation services. But they also treat a wide range of other neuromuscular conditions. These include headaches, neck pain, sciatica, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Also, chiropractors help patients improve their overall wellness by addressing posture, nutrition, and exercise.
Misconception #2: Chiropractic Care Is Not Safe
Another misconception about chiropractic care is that it is not safe. Chiropractors are highly trained professionals. They complete rigorous education and must pass four national board exams to be licensed. They are also regulated by state boards. Chiropractors adhere to strict guidelines and standards of care.
Chiropractic care is generally considered to be safe. It is effective in treating a variety of conditions. However, as with any form of healthcare, there are risks and potential side effects. Discuss these with your chiropractor before undergoing treatment.
Misconception #3: Chiropractors Only Help Athletes and People in Accidents
A third misconception is chiropractic care is only for athletes or people who have been in accidents. Chiropractic care is often associated with sports injuries. However, it benefits anyone experiencing pain or discomfort. Many people visit chiropractors seeking relief from chronic pain or discomfort not related to an injury. In fact, people of all ages and levels of physical activity can benefit from regular chiropractic care.
Misconception #4: Chiropractic Care Is Only Effective if Done Regularly
A fourth misconception is that chiropractic care is only effective when done regularly. While regular care helps prevent pain and discomfort, chiropractic care is not always necessary on a regular basis. Some people may only need occasional visits. Others may need more frequent visits. The frequency of visits depends on the individual’s condition and overall health.
Misconception #5: Chiropractors Are Not Doctors
Lastly, some people believe chiropractors are not real doctors. This is not true. Chiropractors are healthcare professionals. They receive a Doctor of Chiropractic degree after completing a rigorous education program, which typically lasts four years. Chiropractors are licensed and regulated by state boards. In Virginia they are regulated by the board of medicine. They adhere to strict standards of care. In addition, they train to take a holistic approach to healthcare. This means they consider the whole person, not just their symptoms.
Doctors of chiropractic are not medical doctors much like other doctors like doctors of physical therapy, doctors of osteopathy, doctors of optometry, doctor of dental surgery, doctors of nurse practitioning, doctor of philosophy etc. When the title of doctor is used it is to indicate ones level of education not profession. Not all doctors are medical doctors, though many of the other doctors are in the healthcare field and are trained in many of the same things like physical exam, image interpretation, diagnosis etc. When talking about doctors of chiropractic they are trained in treating the human body specific to the musculoskeletal system and anything necessary to do so like physical exam, laboratory service and interpretation, radiology services and interpretation etc. Because there are many different things in the spine that can mimic internal disease, doctors of chiropractic have to receive many hours of pathology, internal diagnosis, anatomy and physiology, dermatology, nutrition, womens health, neuroanatomy, orthopedics, children’s health etc. to be able to differentially diagnose conditions in the body correctly and efficiently.
In conclusion, chiropractic care is a safe and effective form of alternative medicine. It helps alleviate pain and discomfort caused by a wide range of neuromusculoskeletal conditions. It is not just for back pain. And chiropractors don’t help only athletes or people who have been in accidents. Chiropractic care benefits anyone experiencing pain or discomfort. Regular visits are not always necessary. Finally, Chiropractors are doctors who have completed a rigorous education program. They are licensed and regulated by state boards. Remember to consult your chiropractor before undergoing treatment. Consider all the facts when making decisions about your healthcare.
If you have questions about chiropractic care do not hesitate to contact our Fredericksburg team at Stine Chiropractic Clinic.
