Despite decades of research and millions of people benefiting from chiropractic care, misconceptions still linger. And these myths can prevent someone from seeking treatment that could truly improve their quality of life.
Some worry that adjustments are unsafe, others assume chiropractors aren’t “real” doctors, and many believe care is only useful for back pain. In reality, most of these ideas stem from outdated information, media portrayals, or a lack of understanding about what modern chiropractic care actually entails.
So, let’s separate fact from fiction. What myths shouldn’t you believe?
Myth #1: Chiropractic Adjustments Are Dangerous
This myth often stems from dramatic portrayals in media or secondhand stories that bear little resemblance to reality. The facts tell a different story. Chiropractic care is remarkably safe when performed by licensed professionals. Adverse events are extremely rare, particularly when compared to common medical interventions for similar conditions.
Chiropractors complete extensive education and training specifically focused on spinal anatomy, neurology, and adjustment techniques. This specialized knowledge allows them to assess each patient individually and apply appropriate techniques safely. Before any adjustment, your chiropractor performs a thorough examination to identify any contraindications or factors that might require modified approaches.
The popping or cracking sound that sometimes accompanies adjustments often concerns first-time patients, but this sound simply represents gas bubbles releasing from the joint—similar to cracking your knuckles. It’s not the sound of bones grinding or breaking, and it’s not necessary for an adjustment to be effective.
Myth #2: Once You Start Chiropractic Care, You Have to Go Forever
This misconception suggests that chiropractic care creates dependency, as if adjustments somehow weaken your spine or make it unable to function without continued intervention. This simply isn’t true. Chiropractic adjustments don’t create dependency—they address underlying issues that, when left unmanaged, tend to recur.
The reason many patients choose to continue care beyond their initial treatment plan is because they experience genuine benefits. Just as you might continue going to the gym after reaching your fitness goals or maintain regular dental cleanings to prevent problems, ongoing chiropractic care serves as preventive maintenance for your spinal health.
Myth #3: Chiropractors Aren’t Real Doctors
This myth diminishes the extensive education and training chiropractors complete. Chiropractors are indeed doctors—specifically, Doctors of Chiropractic (D.C.). They complete rigorous doctoral-level programs that typically span four to five years after undergraduate education, accumulating thousands of hours of classroom and clinical training.
Chiropractic education includes comprehensive coursework in anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, radiology, diagnosis, and chiropractic techniques. In fact, chiropractors often complete more hours of training in anatomy, neurology, and spinal biomechanics than medical doctors. They’re licensed healthcare professionals authorized to diagnose conditions, order and interpret diagnostic imaging, and provide treatment within their scope of practice.
While chiropractors don’t prescribe medication or perform surgery, this doesn’t make them less qualified—it reflects their focus on non-pharmaceutical, non-surgical approaches to healthcare. Additionally, many chiropractors work collaboratively with medical doctors and other healthcare providers to ensure patients receive comprehensive, integrated care.
Myth #4: Chiropractic Care Only Helps With Back Pain
Chiropractors are well known for helping with back pain, but focusing only on that misses the bigger picture. Spinal health plays a role in much more than comfort—it’s central to how your whole body functions. Your spine protects the spinal cord, the communication highway between your brain and every system in your body.
When vertebrae become misaligned, they can create interference with nervous system function that affects areas far beyond the immediate site of misalignment. This is why chiropractic care may benefit people experiencing headaches, neck pain, certain types of dizziness, numbness or tingling in the extremities, and various other conditions related to nervous system function.
Chiropractors also address joint dysfunction throughout the body, not just the spine. The principles of proper alignment and optimal nervous system function extend to your entire musculoskeletal system, making chiropractic care relevant for a wide range of health concerns.
Myth #5: You Need X-Rays Before Getting Adjusted
While diagnostic imaging can provide valuable information in certain situations, the idea that everyone needs X-rays before their first adjustment is false. Chiropractors determine the need for imaging based on individual patient factors, including your history, symptoms, physical examination findings, and overall health status.
For many patients, a thorough history and physical examination provide sufficient information to develop a safe and effective treatment plan. Your chiropractor uses their clinical judgment to determine whether imaging is necessary or would provide additional information that changes their approach to your care.
At the end of the day, you shouldn’t let outdated myths prevent you from exploring how chiropractic care might help you achieve your health goals. With your Spring Hill and Colombia chiropractors at Premier Chiropractic, our team can help you make strides forward toward a healthier and happier life. Book your appointment with us today!
