6 Popular Myths About Chiropractic Care
Many Australians still have questions about the role of chiropractors on a health care team and the health benefits of chiropractic treatment. In this post, we will dispel some deep-rooted myths:
1. Once You Start Seeing a Chiropractor, You Must Keep Going
Wrong: When you see a chiropractor, he or she conducts an assessment to determine the cause of your pain or dysfunction. Based on these observations, he or she will make a diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan that includes an initial number of consultations to see if you are responding well to treatment and to conduct periodic reassessments. The duration of the recommended treatment varies with patients, but, ultimately, it is you who decide whether or not to continue. The treatment plan must be the result of a shared decision between the patient and the practitioner.
2. Chiropractors Are Not Doctors
Like dentists and optometrists, chiropractors are members of a regulated profession. They are authorized to use the title of “doctor” under a rigorous chiropractic doctor training program. Professionals certified as “doctors” have undergone training and pass exams which have earned them their title.
3. Only a Doctor Can Advise You to See a Chiropractor
You can consult chiropractors directly. You don’t need the advice of a doctor to consult an optometrist, do you? As such, they conduct a comprehensive examination that allows them to make a diagnosis or formulate clinical impressions. Depending on the result, the chiropractor will present you with a treatment program or refer you to another health care professional. Note that under some supplementary plans, your health insurer will cover you only after being referred to chiropractic by a general practitioner.
4. Chiropractic Does Not Guarantee Full Recovery
The effectiveness of chiropractic treatment is sometimes questioned. Many studies have been carried to gather evidence that demonstrates the effect of manual therapies on musculoskeletal problems. Spinal and joint manipulation has been effective in cases of acute and chronic musculoskeletal problems, including back pain. Spinal manipulation is the first line of intervention in some clinical practice guidelines of the Bone and Joint Decade Working Group, the American College of Physicians, Britain’s National Institute of Health and Care Excellence, to name just a few, when it comes to back pain. Fortunately, chiropractic is now becoming popular in Australia.
5. Chiropractors Can Only Treat Back Pain
Chiropractors are experts trained in musculoskeletal health to assess, diagnose, treat and prevent biomechanical problems of a muscular, skeletal and nervous nature. In addition to its effectiveness in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders related to the spine, its benefits have also been demonstrated in the treatment of limbs, headaches and even temporomandibular joints (TMJ)4,5,6. Chiropractors can also advise on lifestyle habits – nutrition, fitness, ergonomics, etc. – that contribute to curing many health problems. Your musculoskeletal system is not limited to spinal health; to lead a healthy and harmonious life, you must be fully aware of your health!
6. the Adjustment Is Painful
In general, adjustment or joint manipulation does not cause pain. Some patients are nervous because of the “cracking” or small dry noise that sometimes occurs during an adjustment. It is merely the result of the release of a gas bubble in the joint and some patients even report immediate relief.
It is essential to ask questions about your health and the choice of treatments available to you. Remember that your participation is essential so that they can offer you optimal care that meets your objectives. Check their website if you have questions about Chiropractic care, Soft Tissue Therapy, Dry Needling, Cupping Therapy, Activator Method, and remember to share your experience in the comments below.
