Debunking 2 Myths You May Have About Chiropractic Care
If you live with chronic pain, someone may have recommended that you go to see a chiropractor to have spinal adjustments. However, you may have heard from others or read online certain negative things about receiving chiropractic care. If so, here is the truth behind a couple of myths you may have heard.
1. Educational Requirements for Chiropractors Are Minimal
One misconception you may have about chiropractors is that their educational requirements are minimal. You may have heard that anyone can attend a short program to practice, and this may frighten you because you do not want just anyone treating you. You may have the idea that chiropractors are "quacks" and not able to practice or understand conditions because they lack the same education as medical doctors.
However, the educational requirements to become a chiropractor is actually quite extensive. Just like medical doctors, they must have a four-year pre-med degree before entering a graduate program. Then, after completing their studies and practical clinical tests, they must pass tests to receive their accreditation and licensure.
2. Adjustments Will Make You Hurt Worse
Another myth you may have heard is that spinal adjustments will hurt you. You may find the idea of someone cracking and popping your spinal column and other joints scary, believing that something could go wrong and injure you for life. However, chiropractic adjustments should not increase your pain. While you may have some soreness afterward, you will most likely feel relief from the pain. When an adjustment to your spine is made, your vertebrae are being brought back into alignment.
If one or more of your vertebrae has been putting pressure on a nerve, the realignment can help reduce this pressure. Also, if air has become trapped in the facet joints, which are the spiky parts of the vertebrae, this air is released, causing the popping noise you hear and relieving the pressure.
If you do feel any unusual discomfort during the adjustment, you may be tensing up your muscles because you are nervous. Talking to the chiropractor about ways to help you relax can help alleviate the tension and make you more comfortable during the treatment.
Now that you know the truth about a couple of the common misconceptions people tend to have about going to see a chiropractor, you may be interested in learning more about how having regular spinal adjustments can help relieve your chronic pain and discomfort. If so, contact a chiropractic care clinic to schedule a consultation.