According to the Australian Chiropractors Association, over 300,000 Australians visit a chiropractor every week. Clearly, chiropractic is a profession popular among many. Those who experience chiropractic first-hand know the benefits of the treatment. But many others hesitate from seeking chiropractic help, due to certain misconceptions and assumptions about the field.
So, let’s bust some of the top myths about chiropractic practice!
- Myth: Chiropractic requires very little study and is not regulated.
Truth: Becoming a chiropractor requires years of study and mandates certification.
While chiropractors are not considered medical doctors since they do not write prescriptions, they are rigorously trained to treat musculoskeletal and nervous disorders and conditions. It is a myth that chiropractic is some type of alternative medicine, learnt via a simple weekend course.
Take the case of Australia. To qualify as a chiropractor, one must fulfill specific criteria such as:
- Complete a 5-year university course. This can include a 3-year bachelors degree followed by a masters, or a double degree in chiropractic science and clinical science.
- Engage in continuous professional development.
- Register with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency and adhere to its regulations.
- Myth: Once you start chiro treatment, you have to continue it lifelong.
Truth: Prevention is always better than cure. Chiropractic offers both immediate relief as well as long-term benefits, depending on the severity of the condition and what the patient chooses.
Like with any other form of treatment, chiropractic care also starts with careful diagnosis which guides the treatment plan. Based on the condition of the patient, the chiropractor will suggest a treatment plan or a long-term plan to manage and prevent recurrences. But it’s all done in consultation with the patient, allowing him/ her the choice of whether or not to stick to the treatment.
- Myth: Chiropractic is very painful and cracks bones.
Truth: Chiropractic focuses on the safe adjustment of joints, not cracking bones. Each manipulation provides relief, albeit with some sound.
There are two types of adjustments.
- Manual adjustments
Spinal adjustments typically do not hurt. First-timers may find it intimidating as they acclimatize to the positions and the way of treatment. Some may experience discomfort as the physical body adapts to the proper positioning and functioning of a previously misaligned joint.
The popping sound is due to gases being released from joints, which are adjusted to function correctly. Each adjustment certainly offers relief. However, just as with a rigorous workout or massage session, there may be some muscle soreness as the body adjusts to the treatments.
- Activator adjustments
The activator is a small, hand-held instrument that delivers a high velocity but low force thrust to the spinal vertebra or joint to improve movement.
The activator delivers a direct and precise adjustment that does not require any twisting. Individuals typically find the activator method less physically and mentally stressful because there are no pops or cracks associated with the adjustment, and the speed of the device means that the muscles do not have time to tense against the force.
- Myth: Chiropractic is only for adults.
Truth: The benefits of chiropractic care is available for all, from infants to the elderly.
Paediatric chiropractors are best suited to deal with children, where each treatment is adapted to their concerns. The benefits lie in providing a drug-free, safe, and non-invasive treatment. In infants, it helps deal with birth trauma and promotes better sleep. In older children, chiropractic care helps with gait and posture.
Share this post with those who you know could benefit from chiropractic treatments so they can be confident of its safety and efficacy!