The word “chiropractic” originates from the Greek word “chiro” which means hands, and “praktikos” which translates to the word practice.
Chiropractic treatment involves the use of “hands” to manually manipulate joints and treat mechanical musculoskeletal problems especially the spine.
Founded by Daniel David Palmer, the practice that started way back in the 1890s is now well-established in most countries such US, Canada, and Australia.
Throughout its history, chiropractic has become one of the most controversial treatments having its fair share of TRUTHS and MYTHS surrounding it. In this article, we will break down the most common assumptions about chiropractic treatment to determine which is true and which is not.
#1 Chiropractors are not doctors – MYTH
Chiropractors are different from medical doctors since the latter performs surgical procedures and heavily relies on drug prescription to treat a certain symptom, while Chiropractic treatment uses manual techniques and natural means. But generally, both must have a doctor’s degree and license to practice.
Chiropractors must also undergo a significant amount of training.
In fact, they have at least four years of undergraduate education with pre-med majors and have a total of at least eight years of higher education before they are licensed.
Someone aspiring to become a chiropractor must spend thousands of hours studying before obtaining a license.
In the Philippines, certified chiropractors are recognized by the Department of Health under the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Healthcare (PTAHC), which was established after the “Traditional and Alternative Medicine Act (TAMA) of 1997”. As of August 2019, there are a total of 72 registered CHIROPRACTORS from PITAHC.
#2 Chiropractic treatment is SAFE – TRUTH
Like any other medical practice, when chiropractic treatment is performed by a trained and licensed chiropractor, it is widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal complaints.
Although there is no health treatment that is completely free of any side effects, the risks related to chiropractic treatment are very small. Some side effects include mild soreness, stiffness, or aching (just as when you feel after a heavy workout), but most patients feel immediate relief after chiropractic treatment. Recent studies suggest that minor discomfort or soreness following spinal manipulation typically fades within 24 hours.
#3 Chiropractic manipulation is safe for pregnant women – TRUTH
Reports show that on average, 50% of women experience back pain during pregnancy and 50-70% of women experience back pain during labor.
Chiropractic treatment during pregnancy is usually considered as a safe and effective practice to help manage pain in the back, hips, and joints while establishing pelvic balance. A 2007 study also suggests that Chiropractic evaluation and treatment during pregnancy may be considered a safe and effective means of treating common musculoskeletal symptoms that affect pregnant patients.
#4 Chiropractic treatment is safe for Children – TRUTH
Studies have shown that number of adverse events occurring in children in response to chiropractic treatments is extremely low. When performed with caution, chiropractic adjustments are generally safe for children as they are in adults.
#5 Chiropractors only treat back pain – MYTH
Doctors of Chiropractic (or DCs) are known for their expertise in treating back pain.
Research shows that pain and function improved for up to 6 weeks following spinal manipulation. However, chiropractic treatment can also help with foot, elbow, shoulder, and neck musculoskeletal issues
#6 Chiropractic adjustment is painful – MYTH
There is little to no pain involved in an adjustment. You may feel pops and cracks, but you should not feel any intense pain. In most cases, it may actually FEEL GOOD.
The joints, particularly your back, undergo quick, gentle stretching of the spinal facet joints, so you may hear a cracking or popping noise, caused by small pockets of air or bubbles, which are in the fluid that surrounds your joints.
At the end of the day, in any treatment or medical procedures, it is still important for the patients to be fully aware of their options. May it be chiropractic treatment or otherwise, being educated on what is real and what is not, has an edge in making the right decisions towards a healthier, more active, and pain-free life. If you want to know more about how Chiropractic treatment can help you, contact us at #InvigorHealthcareCenter by calling us at (2)7505-5657 or visit any of our social media pages to book an appointment today.
Sources:
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322038#certifications
- https://www.acatoday.org/News-Publications/Newsroom/Chiropractic-Frequently-Asked-Questions
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2616395
- https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/chiropractor-while-pregnant#Next-steps
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2647084/
