For people who haven’t visited a chiropractor, it may be difficult to understand the potential benefits that a chiropractor has to offer. To help clear up some of this confusion we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their answers.
Chiropractic is one of the safest forms of neuromusculoskeletal treatments available. This treatment option is non-invasive in contrast with many surgeries or procedures. Chiropractic does not use medications and can actually reduce or eliminate a patient’s need for potentially addictive pain medications since modern prescriptions contain addictive substances and when abused can lead to permanent damage or death.
Chiropractors are required to complete extensive medical education and complete more hours of in-class instruction than medical students training to become doctors. Students are also required to complete a residency program like that of medical doctors. This extensive training helps to create one of the safest and most effective treatment options available for a variety of conditions.
Yes. In fact, chiropractic care is often very beneficial for children who are generally more active and therefore more prone to injury than any other age group. Their rapid growth also requires injuries to be addressed quickly in order to minimize any adverse effects on their development. Unlike surgeries, chiropractic care also has minimal or no recovery time for patients. Children are able to receive rapid care and feel back to normal more quickly than they would with most other treatment options.
Chiropractors can admit and treat patients in hospitals and outpatient settings. This care often includes special equipment like medical labs, X-ray machines, and other diagnostic equipment.
Doctors of Chiropractic must complete one of the most rigorous education schedules of any medical professionals. Most students that are entering chiropractic colleges have already completed their bachelor’s degree in a medical field. Their education generally includes biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and lab work. Upon entrance to chiropractic school, students must complete an additional five years of classes as well as study orthopedics, human anatomy, physiology, neurology, nutrition, medical imaging, and exercise courses among others. This is in addition to the chiropractic courses where they learn the techniques and practice of spinal manipulation and other adjusting techniques.
At the completion of their class schedules, chiropractic students will have completed over 4,200 hours of classroom, clinical, and laboratory experience.
An adjustment of the spinal joints often allows for the release of gases that have built up in the spinal column. The popping sound is the pressure being released from the gas bubbles that were previously trapped in the joint. This sound is the same process as when somebody cracks their knuckles and there is often little or no discomfort associated with the sound or adjustment.
Chiropractic care is essential for the ongoing care and treatment of your medical issues. If you have additional questions or concerns about chiropractic care, please contact your chiropractor today and schedule an appointment. Their expertise is sure to leave you feeling empowered and ready to begin your healing journey.