Chiropractic care has been a trusted choice for conservative healthcare for over a century, and it’s only getting more popular. However, despite its long history, many people still have questions about this type of all-natural treatment. They might wonder what’s involved in a chiropractic adjustment, how it works, what conditions it can treat, or if it’s covered by insurance.

At the WSCA, we believe that knowledge is power, and we want all patients to have a clear understanding of what chiropractic care entails so that they can make informed decisions about their health. That’s why we’re here to answer your common questions and clear up any misconceptions that might be holding you back from seeking necessary care.

In this blog post, we’ll address some of the most common myths about chiropractic care and provide an accurate, evidence-based perspective you can trust. We’ll explore the benefits of chiropractic care, its safety, and why it’s an excellent form of alternative healthcare.

Is chiropractic care only for back pain? 

One of the most common misconceptions about chiropractic care is that it is only for the treatment of back pain. Research shows nearly 60% of chiropractic patients seek care to treat back pain, but the remaining 40% present with a variety of conditions, including: 

• • Headaches and migraines 
  • Chronic pain 
  • Joint pain and arthritis 
  • Sports injuries 
  • Sciatica
  • Digestive dysfunctions

So, while this is not entirely false, it is a misconception that leaves patients lacking the power of knowing their available treatment options. Think of chiropractors as a doctor for our nervous system, muscles, bones, and joints, including how they all work together. A study published in the Spine Journal found that patients who received chiropractic care reported positive outcomes for their overall well-being and health.

Are chiropractic adjustments painful?

If your adjustment is painful, you’re working with the wrong provider. Remember, a chiropractic adjustment is a therapeutic treatment performed by a licensed chiropractor. At most, patients report feeling sore after an adjustment as they would after a workout, or a mild headache. These side effects are temporary.

Chiropractic is known for that satisfying ‘crack’ during an adjustment but it’s nothing to be intimidated by. Joint cavitation is simply a combination of gas and pressure being released resulting in the signature ‘pop.’

Are chiropractors real doctors? 

Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) are highly trained physicians who provide patients with safe, effective care for a variety of common conditions. Their extensive education prepares them to identify patients who have special risk factors and to ensure those patients receive the most appropriate care, including when that requires referral to other provider types. 

DCs receive a comprehensive education in orthopedics, neurology, physiology, human anatomy, differential diagnosis (including laboratory procedures and diagnostic imaging), exercise, nutrition, and rehabilitation, among others. 

As chiropractic care involves highly skilled manipulation and adjusting techniques, a significant amount of time is devoted to clinical technique training to ensure mastery of these important procedures. In fact, the chiropractic college curriculum requires a minimum of 4,200 hours of classroom, laboratory, and clinical experience to provide the highest level of professional care to patients. The course of study is approved by the Council on Chiropractic Education, an accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. 

Is chiropractic care safe? 

Safety is a top priority in chiropractic care. Providers undergo extensive training to become accredited and are required to maintain their education throughout their career by earning Continuing Education credits every year. This keeps all practicing doctors of chiropractic informed, engaged, and accountable.

Research also shows that chiropractic care is contributing to the fight against the current opioid crisis in America. As a non-invasive form of treatment, chiropractic patients are able to find relief and live healthier, happier lives without the use of prescription pain medication or surgery. 

Is chiropractic care covered by insurance? 

It’s an ugly truth that proper healthcare is not accessible to everyone. However, at the WSCA it’s our mission to lobby our support of increasing access to chiropractic care in America and work tirelessly to reduce the use of opioids for pain management, inform patients about their rights to conservative care, and improve lives in the state of Washington. Insurance companies throughout the country are consistently increasing coverage of chiropractic due to its documented efficacy. Patients may also be able to use their Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to pay for treatments.  

Chiropractic care is a safe, effective, reliable, and holistic approach to healthcare that can provide relief for a variety of conditions beyond just back pain. By dispelling the common misconceptions surrounding chiropractic care, we hope to encourage those who may have been hesitant to seek out treatment. With the help of licensed and experienced chiropractors, patients can take control of their health and well-being, without relying on drugs or surgery. So why not explore the benefits of chiropractic care today and find a qualified provider near you?