Are Chiropractic Adjustments Safe?

When it comes to chiropractor services, unfortunately, a few bad stories have turned into a widespread belief that leads many people to be skeptical. The truth is that a handful of bad doctors could have ruined the reputation of the entire industry.

There are plenty of trained professionals out there with proper licensing that help people to recover from back injuries every day. Certain types of treatments and focus areas, such as acute lower back pain, have repeatedly been proven successful with chiropractic therapy.

But on the flipside, chiropractor services may not be the best choice for every type of injury or condition.

Chiropractor Qualifications

Licenced chiropractors are experienced doctors who can order X-rays, work with GPs, and continue with various sort of testing and treatment. In Canada, they are considered doctors and require seven years of university training plus extensive practical experience to become registered and licensed.

Different Solutions for Different Patients

One reason why you may have heard that chiropractic techniques aren't safe is that, at times, doctors may suggest inappropriate treatment solutions or are trying to treat a symptom or secondary problem rather than getting to the root. The result may be prescription drugs or surgery, neither of which are the safest and most appropriate first step option.

Benefits of Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractors tend to take a holistic approach to treatment, which means that they consider the whole body and well-being of a persona when they’re treating back pain, headaches, and neck pain.

Generally speaking, chiropractic treatment helps with increased mobility and relaxation in the spinal vertebrae. All of this, plus lifestyle adjustments and complementary therapies like massage therapy, acupuncture, and stretching, can be used in combination to ensure a healthy lifestyle.

Risks & Red Flags

If a chiropractor seems overly confident about fixing a problem or is trying to sell you on a treatment that hasn’t been generally recognized as safe, these are good reasons to get a second opinion.

You absolutely should not risk aggravating an existing injury just because a poorly trained doctor is trying to sell you on a product or service.

And as far as injury or stroke goes, research shows that this isn’t something you really have to worry about. However, you do want to be aware of complications like herniated disks or nerve compression, which are rare but possible during chiropractic treatment.

Chiropractic May Not for Everyone

With regards to the question “are chiropractic treatments safe," the answer is generally yes. The thing is that it's not meant for everyone.

If you are skeptical or worried, don't hesitate to ask plenty of questions before settling on a chiropractor you trust and get a second opinion if you feel uneasy in any way.

On the whole, chiropractor services are safe so long as licensed practitioners perform them. A great doctor should have your best interests at heart and even support a second opinion if you say you’re getting one.

Also, if you give this a shot and you don't see improvements, it's a sign that you might want to try another treatment option.