Schedule An Appointment

Open Monday: 7:30AM - 12PM, 1PM - 5PM

Chiropractic Myths & FAQs

Common Myths About Chiropractic

"Chiropractic is not scientific" Actually, results are produced by adhering to scientifically confirmed facts.  The brain controls every function of the body by sending impulses down the spine and out through the spinal nerves.  Since the moving bones of the spine encase the spinal cord, misalignments of the vertebrae can interfere with the nerve impulses.  Chiropractic helps restore the integrity of the nervous system by removing these misalignments.

"If you start, you have to go for the rest of your life" How long you decide to benefit from chiropractic care is always up to you.  Since many spinal problems have developed over a long period of time, permanent correction can be difficult.  Years of muscle damage and scar tissue can set the stage for a relapse.  Many patients find a regular program of supportive care (like regularly brushing your teeth) to be helpful. 

"Chiropractic results are just a 'Placebo Effect'"The placebo effect depends on the power of suggestion.  Yet chiropractic results have been enjoyed by newborns, infants, animals and others for whom the power of suggestion isn't possible!  Plus, there are alterations to a patient's spine from chiropractic care.  Many see dramatic changes when they compare before and after X-rays.  Other tests show improved range of motion and flexibility.

"Chiropractic wears out your joints"Chiropractic care can actually help prevent joints from wearing out!  Bones don’t “rub” on each other.  Instead, each joint is enclosed in a capsule of fluid that should allow for free movement.  When there is a loss of proper motion or position of spinal bones, this movement can be restricted.  Chiropractic spinal adjustments are directed only to those areas that are "stuck" and not moving enough.

"Only people with back or neck problems need a chiropractor" Although chiropractic adjustments do help people with back or neck issues, it is best to see a chiropractor before problems begin.  Regular checkups can ensure that your spine and nervous system are functioning properly.  Chiropractic can also help with many other issues, such as headaches, allergies, digestive trouble, bedwetting, asthma, and much more!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

"How does chiropractic work?"  Chiropractic allows your body to use its natural, inborn ability to heal itself and stay healthy.  Your brain must be able to communicate to the rest of your organs and systems in order for the body to function properly.  This communication takes place through the spinal cord and nerves.  Unfortunately, the bones (vertebrae) surrounding the spinal cord can put pressure on the nerves and interfere with that communication.  This misalignment of the vertebrae is called a "subluxation".  Chiropractic removes this interference by delivering a specific, highly-accurate force, known as an "adjustment", to the affected area so your body can function normally again.

"Is chiropractic safe?" Chiropractic has an excellent safety record.  It is a natural, conservative approach to health that avoids invasive procedures or addictive drugs.  On the other hand, thousands will die this year from needless back surgeries or anesthesia.  Thousands more will fall victim to so-called “safe” pain medicines that destroy their vital organs.  Adverse reactions to prescription medication are one of the top leading causes of death in the United States.  The rare complications from chiropractic care can be counted on one hand!  Even if you are currently under medical care, only a chiropractor is trained to check for misalignments in your spine that could aggravate your current condition.

"What type of education do chiropractors get?"The science of chiropractic requires a special emphasis on anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, biomechanics, X-ray, spinal adjusting techniques, and related subjects.  This demanding curriculum prepares chiropractic doctors to located spinal misalignments, or "subluxations", and help correct nervous system dysfunction.  To graduate with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, each candidate passes the demanding National Board Examination.  Then, doctors apply to a governmental or professional licensing board and pass a still more difficult test before being granted the privilege to practice.

"Can I adjust myself?"Since a chiropractic adjustment is a specific force, applied in a specific direction, to a specific spinal joint, it is virtually impossible to adjust oneself.  It is possible to turn or twist in certain ways to create a "popping" sound, like the sound that sometimes accompanies a chiropractic adjustment.  Unfortunately, this type of joint manipulation is usually counterproductive, often making an already unstable area of the spine even more unsteady.  Adjusting the spine is not for amateurs!

"Why do children need chiropractic care?" Significant spinal trauma can occur at birth, and may go undetected for years.  Later, learning to walk, ride a bicycle, and other childhood activities that result in falls can cause spinal problems.  Many childhood health complaints that are brushed off as "growing pains" can often be traced to the spine.  Regular chiropractic checkups can identify these problems and help avoid many of the health complaints seen later in adults.  Most parents report that their children look forward to their adjustments and seem healthier than other children.  Chiropractic adjustments are modified to a child's spine and are very safe.

"Am I too old for chiropractic care?"  No!  With growing concerns about over-medication and side effects of various prescription drugs, safe, natural chiropractic care is growing in popularity.  Restoring better spinal function can help improve mobility, vitality, endurance, and appetite.  Many patients report improvement with arthritic symptoms and other chronic ailments often associated with the aging process.  The adjusting technique used by your doctor will be modified for maximum comfort and results.