Chiropractic is a natural, conservative, holistic approach to health care. It aims to solve health problems without the use of drugs or surgery and has gained popularity of late due to its effectiveness. This section addresses misunderstandings commonly associated with chiropractic health care.
Treatments are dangerous
Chiropractic care is non-invasive and drug-free; therefore, the body's response to chiropractic care is far more predictable than its reactions to drug treatments or surgical procedures. Of the nearly one million adjustments given every day in this country, complications are exceedingly rare. Perhaps the best summary statement on the subject of safety was published in 1979 by the Government of New Zealand, which established a special commission to study chiropractic. They found "The conspicuous lack of evidence that chiropractors cause harm or allow harm to occur through neglect of medical referral can be taken to mean only one thing: that chiropractors have on the whole an impressive safety record."
Treatments are painful
Chiropractic adjustments are painless under normal circumstances. Occasionally, a particular treatment or technique can cause a certain amount of discomfort, but this is usually replaced by relief from pain after the treatment or technique has been applied.
Chiropractors only treat backs
Because of the anatomical focus on the spine, chiropractors have gained the reputation of being solely "back doctors." Although this perception is not entirely incorrect, it is very much incomplete. Doctors of chiropractic are formally educated in clinical examination and diagnosis of the entire human body. In addition, we provide a holistic health-care approach, one that goes beyond the body and into the lifestyle of the patient.
Treatments don’t work
The efficacy of chiropractic care is well documented in published studies that have been conducted around the world. These studies have concluded that in cases of back, neck, and head pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and fibromyalgia, chiropractic care was much more effective in treating these conditions when compared to a number of other treatment methods (including massage, pain-relief medication, bed rest, physical therapy, and back school therapy).
Chiropractic is not grounded in science
The chiropractic philosophy holds that one’s well-being is greatly dependent on normal nerve function, and any misalignment of the spine can create an interruption of nerve flow. This can eventually lead to pain, disability, and an overall decrease in the quality of life. The existence of the nervous system as the primary control mechanism of the body is an undisputed scientific fact. For over a century, chiropractors have proven time and time again that the removal of any interference with normal nerve function has had significant, lasting health benefits.
It’s expensive
Chiropractic care is very affordable. Because we do not use medications or invasive techniques, our care is efficient and less expensive than other treatments. In addition, we aim to prevent potentially costly injuries by incorporating lifestyle recommendations (e.g., nutrition and exercise programs, ergonomic education, etc.) into the care we provide. The health care industry has come to the realization that wellness programs and early detection of disease can reduce the total cost of caring for an individual. As a result, chiropractic care is now covered by private insurance programs, most PPOs and HMOs, most automobile insurance companies, and medicare and medicaid.
You have to continue treatment forever
This is of course up to you. As with all health-care decisions, you will have the final say regarding how you treat your body. We want you to understand that starting chiropractic care will not, in any way, make you "addicted" to the treatments we recommend for your particular condition. Nor will you be in dire straits if you decide to discontinue care. The choice is yours, just as it is with your eyes, your teeth, your car, your home, your bike-if you want smooth operation, maintenance is necessary. We can assist you in maintaining your most valued possession: your overall health!
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