Are chiropractors real doctors? Do they only crack necks and backs? Anthony and Stephanie dispel common myths about chiropractors and what they do.

Are Chiropractors Real Doctors?

Did you know that a Doctor of Chiropractic takes approximately the same course load as a Doctor of Medicine? Doctors of Chiropractic take 4200 - 4700 hours of postgraduate coursework and they have a a very similar postgraduate educational background as a medical doctor. Chiropractors are officially governed and licensed by their state licensure board to practice their trade. Where chiropractic ideologies differ from medical doctors often comes with their views on how to treat their patients. Most medical doctors apply a pharmacological treatment model, while chiropractors employ treatments to the musculoskeletal system.

Do Chiropractors Only Crack Necks and Backs?

Chiropractors often have a very large scope of work. While chiropractors are best known for spinal adjustments, they tend to look at the patient more holistically for treatment solutions. Chiropractors focus on understanding the root cause of the problem before treatment. Your chiropractor may utilize lifestyle modifications, nutrition plans, soft tissue techniques and, and of course, spinal adjustments. A chiropractor's ability to keep the body functioning at a high level makes them a strong asset to any professional sports team.

Is Chiropractic Care Effective?

Chiropractic care is most effective at dealing with chronic pain. Pharmaceutical drugs often mask the symptoms and issues you are dealing with. Chiropractors are specifically trained to investigate the source of the pain so that the problem can actually be solved. After relieving the pain, they can prescribe physical therapy for you to strengthen the surrounding muscles to avoid the issue returning in the future. Since chiropractic care is often more cost-effective than going to a medical doctor, it can be a worthwhile pursuit if you are suffering from pain.

References

1. More than 80% of the population will experience an episode of low back pain at some time during their lives.

2. Dr. Bill Moreau, DC, DACBSP, CSCS, FACSM, currently serves as the Vice President of Sports Medicine, United States Olympic Committee.

3. The use and role of sport chiropractors in the National Football League.

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