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 FAQ 

 7 COMMON CHIROPRACTIC MISCONCEPTIONS 
Chiropractic Adjustments  are Dangerous

Studies show that there is very little risk with the chiropractic adjustment and virtually none with the adjustment instrument. Statistically, it is more of a risk to take 2 Advil a day for 2 weeks than to get adjusted.

 

Chiropractic Adjustments Hurt

There are many techniques available to adjust the spine - ranging from the classic dynamic thrust to very light forces or contacts, and can include table or instrument assisted delivery. Modern chiropractors utilize safe and effective procedures suitable to the patient's age, condition and comfort levels. 

 

Chiropractic Care is Just For People in Pain

Many people believe it is only necessary to consult a chiropractor when they are experiencing pain or discomfort. This is not true. Chiropractors also take preventative measures to ensure that problems do not occur in the future. Some people see a chiropractor simply for a check-up, to make sure joints and muscles are functioning properly. 

 

I Can Crack My Own Back

By trying to crack your own back, you may be causing more problems. First of all, it is difficult to achieve. But more importantly, major part of making adjustments is proper positioning, which is hard to achieve on your own. When you attempt to make an adjustment on your own, any joint that is capable of moving could achieve the “pop” sound associated with a successful adjustment. However, this does not mean you have returned movement to the proper joint. Along with the release of nitrous oxide comes the release of endorphins. Endorphins will give you a brief sense of euphoria, making you believe you have cured your problem. Unfortunately, the pain will likely return approximately 25 minutes later. If you continue to adjust yourself every 20 minutes for relief, then the joints will become hyper mobile and therefore more difficult to maintain stability.

Fear of the "Pop" or "Crack"

Usually people fear the “pop” or “crack” sound because they do not know what it is. The pop sound occurs when a joint has been forced past its normal physiological range of motion. When this happens, there is a release of nitrous oxide gas, which causes the “popping” sound. It normally takes about 15-20 minutes for the gas to get back inside the joint, so a second popping sound will not be achievable until that time has passed. 

 

Chiropractic Care is Addictive

Addictive?  You only have to continue going to the chiropractor as long as you wish to maintain the health of your neuromusculoskeletal system. Going to a chiropractor is much like exercising at a gym or eating a healthy diet: As long as you keep it up, you’ll reap the benefits.

 

Chiropractic Care Can Cause Stroke

Chiropractic is recognized as one of the safest types of health care in the world. Numerous studies, including those funded by governments, universities and nonprofit research institutions, have proven it to be a successful primary therapy for neuromusculoskeletal conditions -- a therapy that is safer, in fact, than most medical procedures used to treat the same conditions. The source of public concern in this regard is a condition known as vertebral artery syndrome (VAS), which occurs when sudden head movements disrupt the blood flow in the vertebral artery, possibly leading to stroke.  According to the 1996 RAND report, "The Appropriateness of Manipulation and Mobilization of the Cervical Spine," only one out of every one million chiropractic patients experiences VAS. Even if this is still a concern for you, there are many different techniques to adjust the spine which are very low-force and are extremely safe. 

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