Discourse about chiropractic beginning somewhere in the late ’80s. Then began to appear many “specialists” who had no medical education but undertook to chiropractic. Their clients often had unpredictable consequences of manual therapy – injuries and complications. Much has changed since then, but the procedure has become overgrown with myths and somewhat negative attitudes. So, let’s try to dispel these myths.
Myth 1. A chiropractor must have a special talent
This stereotype arose because of fans of osteopaths, to whom people often went before. They argued their skills with innate skills, enlightenment, talents. In fact, any specialist who has medical education and has taken special courses can master chiropractic. The procedure is not based on special innate skills, but on clear rules and proven techniques.
Myth 2. For manual therapy is required no medical education
In fact, only a person with higher medical education can become a chiropractor. After all, manipulations require knowledge of anatomy and physiology, features of various pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, and internal organs. It is impossible to do them correctly without it.
After receiving a basic education, the doctor must undergo special courses in chiropractic. They teach techniques based on the structure and functioning of the human body, tell about the indications and contraindications, possible complications.
When choosing a specialist, be sure to pay attention to his education and certificates of training in chiropractic.
Myth 3. Chiropractic is dangerous
This myth arose because of treatment by non-professionals. Poorly performed manipulation can really cause serious consequences – fractures of the ribs, vertebrae, and even spinal cord injury.
Specialists with special education and perfect know the anatomy, never make such mistakes. The frequency of complications does not exceed 2%, which is much lower than during surgery or even the use of painkillers. Most problems can be quickly corrected.
Myth 4. Chiropractic is not recognized by official medicine
Chiropractic has been known for a long time. It was used in the ancient world. For some time, official medicine was wary of this practice, especially when manipulated by people without proper education. Today there is enough scientific evidence of the effectiveness of the method. It is included in the treatment protocols of many diseases of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, internal organs.
Myth 5. The procedure causes pain
There are strict techniques that can cause discomfort. But now chiropractors do not use them. The procedure should not cause pain or discomfort. When the patient complains, or the specialist feels muscle tension, he weakens the impact, changes the techniques. During the session, the pain should disappear, not increase. Only then will manipulation really have a benefit.
Myth 6. Chiropractic is the same as therapeutic massage
The fact is that therapeutic massage affects only the superficial tissues – skin, subcutaneous tissue, some muscle groups. The effect of chiropractic is much deeper, it extends to ligaments, fascia, joints, bones. The technique helps to treat even diseases of the internal organs. It includes some massage techniques, passive and passive-active gymnastics, actively uses the reflex connections between superficial and deep tissues. Ordinary masseurs do not have all the techniques, so you need to consult a chiropractor.
Myth 7. Chiropractic is able to cure diseases of the spine and joints
In fact, chiropractic is just one of the methods of rehabilitation. It has clear indications and contraindications. Often used to remove blocks in the joints, pain, improve mobility. But to stop degenerative processes, to rehabilitate after injuries is possible only with the help of a set of procedures. This set of procedures includes physical therapy, massage, diet, and lifestyle changes in general.
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