You've probably heard some crazy myths about chiropractors over the years. Maybe your friend swears that her chiropractor is secretly an anti-vaxxer. Or your coworker insists that chiropractic adjustments are dangerous and can cause strokes. The truth is, there are a lot of misconceptions out there about chiropractic care and chiropractors themselves. Before you write off chiropractic as quackery or believe some dubious claim you read online, check out the facts. We're debunking 5 of the most common myths about chiropractors in Sunshine Coast so you can get the real story and make an informed choice about your health and wellness. The truth may surprise you.
Chiropractors Do More Than Just Adjustments
A lot of people think chiropractors just crack backs and necks, but they actually do so much more. Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system and how it affects your overall health.
Chiropractors use manual adjustments and manipulations to correct structural alignment and improve your body's physical function, but they also provide lifestyle counseling to help you achieve and maintain health and wellness. Things like:
- Nutritional advice and meal planning to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Customized exercise programs to strengthen your core and support your adjustments.
- Recommendations for ergonomic changes to your daily activities and workspace to prevent future issues.
Chiropractors take a whole-person approach to care. They look at how your spine and joints are moving, how your muscles are functioning, and factors like your diet, exercise, sleep, and stress levels. The goal is to get to the underlying cause of your pain or discomfort, not just mask the symptoms.
While chiropractic adjustments are very safe and effective, chiropractors have many tools beyond adjustments in their toolkit. Things like massage therapy, heat/ice, traction, laser therapy, and acupuncture are often used to provide relief and restore mobility.
So if you've been hesitant to see a chiropractor because you think they only crack backs, know that they practice a drug-free, hands-on approach to health and wellness. Chiropractic care aims to allow your body to function as efficiently and optimally as possible so you can live life without pain, discomfort, and limitations.
Chiropractic Adjustments Are Completely Safe
A lot of people think chiropractic adjustments are risky or dangerous. Not true. Chiropractic care is actually very safe when performed by a licensed chiropractor.
Chiropractors go through extensive training to learn proper adjustment techniques. They know how to correctly align your spine without causing harm. While you may feel some mild soreness after an adjustment, serious side effects are extremely rare.
- Chiropractic adjustments do not require any drugs or surgery. They are non-invasive and all-natural.
- Chiropractors use their hands to gently manipulate the spine and other joints into their proper position.
Some people worry that adjustments may cause a stroke, but multiple research studies have found no evidence to support this myth. Chiropractic care is considered a very low-risk treatment, with risks comparable to taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
The truth is, you're more likely to experience side effects from medication or surgery than from chiropractic care. Chiropractors take a holistic approach focused on the health and proper functioning of your spine and musculoskeletal system. When your spine is in alignment, your whole body works better.
So you can rest assured that chiropractic adjustments, when performed by a licensed professional, are an extremely safe and effective treatment. Don't let those myths scare you away from better health and wellness. Give chiropractic a try—your body will thank you!
Chiropractors Do Not Require a Referral
You Don’t Need a Referral to See a Chiropractor
One of the biggest myths about chiropractors is that you need a referral from your primary doctor to see one. This is not the case. Chiropractors are primary care physicians focused on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromusculoskeletal disorders. You can schedule an appointment directly with a chiropractor without needing permission from another doctor first.
Chiropractors go through extensive education and training to become licensed, including a 4-year chiropractic college program and passing national board exams. They are physicians in their own right. While some insurance plans may require a referral to see a specialist, chiropractors themselves do not require a referral for you to become a patient. You have the freedom to choose the chiropractor you want to see based on their experience, qualifications, reviews, location, availability or any other factor important to you.
Some people may believe they need imaging, tests or a diagnosis from an MD before pursuing chiropractic care. Again, this is a myth. Chiropractors are trained to conduct a full evaluation, order any necessary imaging or tests, and determine an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. They can properly assess if chiropractic care is appropriate and the best option for your condition based on a physical exam and health history. An MD referral is not needed for the chiropractor to make this determination.
While chiropractors and medical doctors have different approaches, they share the same goal of helping patients achieve better health and well-being. Rather than requiring a referral, many chiropractors and MDs now work collaboratively as a team to provide the most comprehensive care for patients. But you are in control—you get to choose which physicians you want to see and when. Don’t let the myth of needing a referral hold you back from seeking chiropractic care.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the truth about chiropractors and what they can really do for you. Don't let outdated myths and misconceptions prevent you from seeking treatment that could provide relief from pain and improve your quality of life. Chiropractors are highly trained professionals focused on diagnosis and treatment through natural, non-invasive methods. Give your local chiropractor a call and schedule a consultation. You have nothing to lose and your health and mobility to gain. Stop suffering from pain and discomfort due to conditions that chiropractic care may be able to help. Take control of your health and well-being. You owe it to yourself.
