Myths & Speculation Put to Rest...

Frequently Asked Questions

Are chiropractors "real" doctors and as skilled as regular medical doctors?

YES! Chiropractors are licensed health care providers in every U.S. state and many countries around the world. They earn a Doctorate of Chiropractic (D.C.) Degree after four years of rigorous schooling, in which the classroom criteria is almost identical to that of a medical doctor (M.D.). In fact, D.C.s have more classroom education in certain areas, such as anatomy, physiology and rehabilitation which is more intensive than most M.D.s or physical therapists. Just like medical doctors, D.C.s are professionals who are subject to the same type of testing, procedures, licensing and monitoring by state and national boards. (ACA, 2011).

Do chiropractors prescribe medications?

No! Chiropractors do not prescribe medications because they would rather solve the issue mechanically, with an adjustment or other natural methods such as acupuncture, nutrition, exercise rehabilitation or therapies like electrical stimulation, myofascial or ultrasound (Loehr, 2011).

Are the core concepts of chiropractic based on science? Is chiropractic care effective?

Ernst (2008) states the core concepts of chiropractic are not based on "sound science" and, with the exception of back pain, spinal manipulation has not been shown to be effective for any medical condition beyond a reasonable doubt.

However, just because a chiropractor takes advantage of the natural healing ability of the body (without prescription medications), it does not mean chiropractic is not based on science. The whole idea of chiropractic was conceived through testing and research back in the 1800s (like that of standard medicine). Since then, many more studies and research projects have been performed to prove that chiropractic adjustments are effective for alleviating symptoms, as well as preventing problems from occuring (Keating et. al., 2004).

Once I go to a Chiropractor, how many office visits does it take to fix my problem?

THIS VARIES. The number of office visits varies on the severity of the issue and the possible underlying causes for the problem. A chiropractor, however, will look at the big picture of how to best get to the root of the problem, rather than just masking the symptom(s) with medication. Seek an office which provides this complete care, offering a proposed treatment plan for your individual needs.

Is Chiropractic care cost-effective?

YES - There is no comparison as far as chiropractic's cost-effectiveness! Most chiropractic offices offer therapies at a significantly lower charge than the exact same ones of a standard medical doctor or hospital (i.e. x-rays, ultrasound treatment, decompression therapy, etc.). Furthermore, several sessions at a chiropractor's office might also prevent the need for a costly procedure or surgery, thus saving thousands of dollars. Avoiding these is more profitable for medical insurance companies, as well as the patient (Loehr, 2011).

Is chiropractic care safe?

YES! Chiropractic is safe for patients of all ages. According to the American Chiropractic Association, or ACA (2011), "Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal complaints." Although chiropractic has an excellent safety record, no health treatment is completely free of potential adverse effects. There are risks associated with every type of medical treatment or procedure, but with chiropractic, they are minimal.

At what age can someone receive a spinal adjustment?

If necessary, an adjustment can be performed even just a couple hours after birth! The process of going through the birthing canal can be quite demanding on a baby's body, but an adjustment is not always needed (Loehr, 2011).