Five Common Myths About Chiropractic Care

Five Common Myths About Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is one of the fastest-growing non-invasive and highly effective medical approaches to relieving nerve pain, joint pain, back pain, headaches, migraines, pregnancy-related pain, and a host of other maladies and ailments. Given its rise in popularity, it is inevitable that some myths would develop about chiropractic care and its various treatments and applications.

The following sections identify the five most common myths. These sections analyze the sources of the myths, dispelling some of the misconceptions or falsehoods associated with each myth.

"Chiropractors are Not Real Doctors"

The Myth: Because not all chiropractors wear lab coats with stethoscopes draped over their shoulders, a myth has developed surrounding whether or not chiropractors are "real doctors."

The Truth: This myth is factually untrue. Chiropractors must undergo educational training similar to medical doctors. Graduate programs for chiropractors typically require about four years of study, culminating in an official diploma known as a "D.C." (Doctor of Chiropractic) degree. Successful completion of both national board examinations and state licensure examinations is required to practice chiropractic care in any state. Beyond their educational background, chiropractors demonstrate their title as doctors in their day-to-day medical practice by analyzing, diagnosing, and treating patients using a range of skills within their field.

"The Goal of Chiropractic Care is to Produce a 'Pop' Sound During an Adjustment"

The Myth: Some associate chiropractic adjustments with the popping or cracking sound joints make when air bubbles within the joint escape during an adjustment. However, this is not the primary goal of chiropractic care, and it's hardly even a point of interest for chiropractors.

The Truth: The cracking sound chiropractors make during an adjustment is a byproduct of the adjustment itself. According to University of Bridgeport research, "While some chiropractic procedures may produce a satisfying pop, it's not the goal of chiropractic care but an occasional byproduct." Chiropractic medicine operates on the principle that proper alignment of the spine and other musculoskeletal structures is essential for overall health and well-being. The purpose of chiropractic adjustments is to restore or enhance this alignment, thereby improving nervous system function and promoting the body's natural ability to heal itself.

"Chiropractic Adjustments are Only Meant to Treat Back Pain"

The Myth: Some believe that, because so much of chiropractic care focuses on the patient's spine, the only thing chiropractic care is meant to treat is back pain.

The Truth: Back pain is a common reason patients seek chiropractic care, but it's far from the only one. Chiropractors treat various areas of the body affected by musculoskeletal issues, including neck pain, headaches, joint pain, sports injuries, postpartum pain, congenital conditions, and aging-related pain. Much of a chiropractor's work centers around the spine because it is the body's main pathway where the nervous system runs to and from different areas. When the spine becomes misaligned, it can create new and exacerbate existing discomfort in countless areas of the body.

"Chiropractic Manipulations are Painful"

The Myth: Countless depictions of chiropractic adjustments in television and movies have produced the idea that such adjustments are painful. Humans also have a natural wariness of having their back and especially their neck manipulated. Sometimes, the cracking or popping noise that comes with an adjustment sounds like it should be painful, even though it isn't.

The Truth: While some patients experience mild soreness following an adjustment, it resembles the soreness felt after a gym visit or cardiovascular activity—more of a soreness and fatigue sensation than actual pain. Rather than causing pain, chiropractors employ methods designed to reduce pain by helping patients avoid invasive surgeries and costly medications. Most patients leave their chiropractic visits feeling better than they did when they arrived.

"Chiropractic Care Requires Ongoing Visits to Get Results"

The Myth: One of the oldest jokes about chiropractic care goes something like this: "How many chiropractors does it take to change a light bulb? Just one, but it takes 24 adjustments!"

The Truth: Chiropractic care provides personalized treatment to each patient rather than a blanket approach for all. While some treatment plans may require multiple return visits, the overall frequency of visits depends entirely on the individual patient and their specific needs. Per University of Bridgeport research, "While some treatment plans call for routine adjustments, others may incorporate occasional maintenance into a patient's wellness routine." Chiropractors also focus on patient education, teaching methods and movements that can help prevent symptoms from recurring in the future.

Pain Relief Without Surgery or Medication

Chiropractic care is not a cure-all for all health maladies. According to University of Bridgeport research, chiropractic care is most effective when used in collaboration with the patient's primary physician and their medical recommendations. Incorporating collaborative chiropractic care into your overall health picture helps maintain whole-body wellness.

Cool Springs Chiropractic, led by Dr. Peter Hinz and his team of specialists, delivers exemplary service and is recognized for expertise in treating patients with pinched nerve pain.

Dr. Hinz states: "At Cool Springs Chiropractic, our expert team provides tailored chiropractic care to address our patients' unique health needs in collaboration with their primary care provider and other specialists. No matter what the severity of the condition is, we're here to effectively diagnose the problem and do everything we can to help patients experience relief without invasive surgeries or costly medication."

Schedule Your Appointment

Schedule an appointment by calling (615) 503-9900 or using the online system to take advantage of the limited-time $49 New Patient Special. The office is located at 3252 Aspen Grove Drive, Suite 13, in Franklin, Tennessee. For more information, email info@coolspringschiropractic.com.