If you have researched the possibility of beginning treatment with a chiropractor, you probably have encountered some internet sources that make you pause. Maybe it was that wacky video of neck cracking compilations, or maybe it was the internet forum on spine manipulations gone wrong. You can find horror stories on the web for any sort of medical treatment, and chiropractic care is no exception.
Fortunately, there is much more reliable research to indicate that chiropractic care is one of the safest nondrug, noninvasive types of health care for neuromusculoskeletal problems. Here are a few answers that may help you decide if chiropractic treatment is right for you.
Why Are Adjustments Safe?
Nearly all reputable medical organizations recognize that chiropractic treatment is safe when it is performed by a doctor who is trained and licensed to deliver this care. The Mayo Clinic has published extensive research indicating that chiropractic adjustments are safe and effective in addressing pain-related issues like neck pain, lower back pain, and headaches.
When you are experiencing pain-related health problems, treatment provided by a chiropractor like one from AmeriWell Clinics is far safer than many of the other options for treatment, like injections, medication, or surgery.
What Type of Training Do Chiropractors Have?
Chiropractors complete some of the most stringent and extensive training of any health care professionals. The standard training includes four to five academic years of professional study after undergraduate work, including a minimum of 4,200 hours of laboratory, clinical, and classroom experience. Chiropractor candidates study orthopedics, physiology, neurology, clinical diagnosis, diagnostic imaging, exercise, nutrition, and more during their course of training at an accredited chiropractic college.
In order to open a practice, a chiropractor must pass national board examinations and obtain licensure in their state. Depending on the state, a chiropractor needs to complete 20 to 40 course hours of continuing education each year to maintain their license.
Are There Any Risks?
Any medical procedure has risks, including chiropractic treatment. Fortunately, most side effects after adjustments are short-term and mild. These symptoms may include discomfort, fatigue, nausea, or dizziness, and normally last no longer than a day or so. Many patients experience no side effects at all, only relief from pain.
On rare occasions, patients have experienced more serious side effects, such as acute pain, increased spine damage, or a certain rare cause of stroke known as vertebral artery dissection. In many cases, these side effects were experienced by patients with pre-existing conditions or other risk factors. A qualified chiropractor will review your full medical history during intake in order to recognize any health issues that may pose risks to chiropractic treatment.
If you are considering chiropractic care, schedule an initial consultation with a licensed chiropractor in your area who can answer your questions and explore safe and effective treatment options.
