Chiropractic Care: Understanding Risks, Benefits & What to Expect

Chiropractors provide diagnosis and offer treatment to patients will musculoskeletal disorders and/or pain. Chiropractors treat the effects that these ailments have on the nervous system and the body's overall general health. The medicine of chiropractors is based upon the premise that joint misalignment affects the whole mind and the body.

Significance

• Chiropractors must be licensed in all 50 United States. They must complete the required educational and classroom studies, and continuing educational requirements as warranted by the state in which they practice.

Pros

• Look for chiropractors who are members of the National Association of Chiropractic Medicine. Choose a chiropractor who uses manual manipulation, ice, heat, electric stimulation, ultrasound and stretching, and who recommends home exercises.

Benefits

• Most conditions that require chiropractic care are often resolved after a few weeks of treatment. Results and improvements may be seen and felt after just a few visits.

Considerations

• Avoid chiropractors who order x-rays and/or claim to cure disease. Also, steer clear of chiropractors who entice patients to sign lengthy treatment contracts and/or sell or prescribe homeopathic products or other alternative supplements.

Warning

• Always consult with a primary care physician or a competent medical doctor before any chiropractic visit. Ask the chiropractor to update and keep in touch with your regular doctor.

Potential

• Many who use a chiropractor report improved sleep, more energy, less joint and muscle pain, better posture, more mobility and better performance in sports. These benefits come without the use of needles and medicines.