5 Common Chiropractic Myths
Chiropractic is a powerful healing modality that I believe is widely misunderstood. Let’s debunk some common myths about chiropractic.
Myth #1 - Chiropractic is about back pain.
Truth - Chiropractic is about the nervous system.
The creator of chiropractic, D.D. Palmer, was interested in the positioning of the vertebrae not because it caused back pain but because a misalignment in the spine interferes with the nerve signal going from the brain to the body, which causes dysfunction and dis-ease. He concluded that if an organ was not functioning properly it must not be receiving the normal nerve supply, and to bring that organ back to health you must address the interference caused by the spinal misalignment.
A chiropractic adjustment improves your body’s ability to adapt. It makes the messages being sent between the brain and the body more accurate. It creates the right environment for your body to be able to heal itself. It actually impacts the functioning of your brain. The first person to ever receive a chiropractic adjustment in 1895 regained his hearing! Aiding with back pain is truly just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the power of chiropractic care.
Myth #2 - All chiropractors are the same.
Truth - Every chiropractor is unique. The benefit of this is that there is someone for everyone. Because there are over 200 different chiropractic techniques, if one style doesn’t work for you another probably will. The downside to this is that as a potential patient you have to be willing to try different practitioners to find the right fit. Especially because chiropractic is a hand-on profession, you want to find someone you enjoy working with and trust completely.
Myth #3 - Once you start going to see a chiropractor you have to keep going.
Truth - It is up to you how you wish to incorporate chiropractic care into your life. I think this myth exists in part because people want instant gratification. It is important to understand that chiropractic is not a quick fix. It will likely take a series of adjustments to create lasting change in the body. After that, many people choose to get adjusted on a regular basis as a way to prevent issues from arising and to help them feel their best. Similar to exercise, you don’t have to do it, but once you understand the benefits and are used to having your body feel a certain way you will likely want to maintain that.
Myth #4 - Chiropractic is only for adults.
Truth - Chiropractic is extremely beneficial for babies, kids and teens too! Chiropractic care helps little ones adapt to life and stay healthy as they grow. Issues such as poor digestion, constipation, irregular sleep, trouble eating, frequent illness, ear infections, extreme moodiness, behavior problems or missing developmental milestones are all signs that the nervous system could use some support. Chiropractic care is a safe, all-natural healing modality that can help!
Myth #5 - If I can crack my own back I don’t need to go see a chiropractor.
Truth - If you fall into this category, book your appointment now! When you crack your own spine you are releasing built up pressure but you are not actually addressing the real issue. You are likely just moving the vertebrae above or below the one that is stuck, creating unnecessary wear and tear on those joints. If you can crack yourself on demand, or if you feel the need to do it every day, then there is something out of alignment that needs to be addressed. I have found that with regular chiropractic care the need to crack your own spine diminishes and eventaully goes away entirely.
I hope this was helpful! If you have any other questions please don’t hesitate to reach out.