MYTH BUSTER- 4 chiro myths revealed

Seeing a chiropractor for the first time can be scary. You’ve heard positive glowing remarks from your friends or family members that you should see one, but you may have heard a scary story from the friend of a friend of a friend.

So I’m here to bust 4 myths you may have heard and put any fear to rest!

Myth 1:

Chiropractors only crack bones and more specifically, only treat the spine.

While chiropractic science is focused on spinal manipulation (also known as an adjustment), chiropractors also have an in-depth understanding of how the musculoskeletal system in the whole body works and are able to help conditions like rotator cuff injuries, hip arthritis, knee pain and other joint and muscle conditions.

Additionally, chiropractors treat patients through:

• mobilisations, which is the gentle movement of the joint to increase its range of motion,

• Rehabilitation, strength and conditioning exercises, of related structures and joints

• application of therapeutic modalities such as laser, shockwave, and various taping techniques as required by patients,

• therapeutic stretching and massage,

• activity and lifestyle modification advice, and

• adjustment of other joints around the body, including ankles, shoulders, wrists, and elbows.

Myth 2:

Adjustments can hurt.

Modern chiropractors utilize safe and effective procedures suitable to the patient's age, condition and comfort levels. This can either be the classic adjustment done by hand or instrument-assisted. Most often, a spinal adjustment will not hurt, but sometimes it may feel like tender muscles that you may experience after starting an exercise program. Over time, as your nervous system integrates the effects of the adjustments, most people feel a continuing sense of ease. This is one reason many people make chiropractic the cornerstone of their wellness lifestyle.

Myth 3:

Chiropractors are not regulated.

Just like other medical professionals in Australia, chiropractors are required to register with their own body, the Chiropractic Board of Australia, and are subject to the standards, codes and guidelines established by this board.

However, to legally practice in Australia, chiropractors must be registered and are strictly regulated by the government via the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.

Myth 4:

There is no proof chiropractic therapy works.

While many people believe there a no proof chiropractic therapy works, chiropractic treatment actually includes a variety of evidence-based treatments for musculoskeletal pain.

A 2018 review published in The Spine Journal references numerous studies spanning 17 years that involved spinal manipulation and mobilisation. The review found chiropractic methods were viable options for pain management for those suffering from chronic lower back pain.

In a study published by NCBI, 93 per cent of patients suffering from chronic whiplash syndrome improved following chiropractic treatment. Another study published by National Centre for Biotechnology (NCBI) cites preliminary evidence which suggests chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy is beneficial for patients with back-related leg pain.

In great news for those suffering from chronic headaches, a 2010 study published by NCBI concluded that spinal manipulation effectively treats headaches and migraines.

If you want to give chiropractic a go, let us know. Check out our website, balancedforlife.com.au and click the book online button.

We’d be delighted to be your first :)