Chiropractor

Many assume that receiving treatment from a chiropractor is both painful and dangerous. This couldn’t be further from the truth.

As a chiropractor like our friends at AmeriWell Clinics can explain, here are a couple of reasons for these misunderstandings, along with some accurate information regarding what you may actually experience.

Spine Cracking

It’s natural to believe that the sounds in videos of chiropractic treatments correlate with physical discomfort. We associate these types of bodily noises with breaking bones and snapping tendons. What you’re hearing is actually totally different.

These pops are actually signs of relief. They originate from synovial joints, which are connections between bones made up of cartilage and fluid. Chiropractors apply strong thrusts that allow this mixture of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide to escape. There’s a pop when the gasses that are trapped between these joints get released. This is entirely normal and typically doesn’t hurt at all.

Neck Cracking

People are naturally fearful of having their necks manipulated. Breaking these delicate bones could result in paralysis or, at the least, additional discomfort. This concern is increased by what we hear. In reality, there’s no need for fear.

First of all, chiropractors only adjust patients’ necks when they deem it to be necessary. There’s a good chance a chiropractor will avoid touching your neck altogether. Second, chiropractors are trained to conduct these manipulations in the safest way possible. The odds of a serious complication developing from a professional working on your neck are incredibly low.

Reasonable Warning

Patients should be aware of the risks that do, in fact, come with seeing a chiropractor. For instance, subjects are in danger of a stroke, as well as the worsening of a herniated disk. They’re also prone to cauda equina syndrome, a pinching of nerves in the lower back that may lead to permanent immobility.

Thankfully, suffering one of these scenarios is extremely unlikely. At-risk patients include those with a history of stroke or cancer. Individuals with spinal abnormalities should avoid seeking treatment. Assuming you do not fall into one of these categories, having a back specialist manipulate your spine is generally safe. Side effects you are likely to suffer include minor irritations, such as headaches, fatigue, and general discomfort where you’ve been worked on.

Receiving chiropractic treatments isn’t nearly as dangerous or uncomfortable as some suspect. Despite the sounds and rare instances of serious complications, they are exceedingly harmless. Contact a chiropractor and feel confident that you’ll be left with relief instead of pain or additional health problems.