Written by: Dr. Evan Steinke, B.Sc. DC
Chiropractic care is a diverse health practice that has been around since the 1890’s. Since its founding it has been under intense scrutiny and the subject of many misconceptions. This can lead to confusion, misinformation, and make new patients unsure of where to begin. So, let’s discuss the big three myths about chiropractic care and the actual research that debunks them.
Myth 1: Chiropractic manipulations are dangerous
There is a common misconception that chiropractic care, particularly the chiropractic
manipulation, is dangerous. Over the years there has been an increasingly large pile of
evidence to state that spinal manipulations are safe and effective. In the case of chronic lower back pain, which is the leading cause of disability globally, the World Health Organization released guidelines in 2023 that recommended treatment with spinal manipulative therapy. Additional research has repeatedly shown that spinal manipulations are safe and do not impose an increased risk of mild or moderate adverse effects (1). In a separate study investigating stroke risk with chiropractic visits compared to primary care, they found there was no evidence of excess risk associated with chiropractic care compared to primary care (2).
World Health Organization Report: https://www.who.int/publications
Alberta Health: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/
1) Pankrath, Natalie et al. “Adverse Events After Cervical Spinal Manipulation - A
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.” Pain
physician vol. 27,4 (2024): 185-201.
2) Cassidy, J David et al. “Risk of vertebrobasilar stroke and chiropractic care:
results of a population-based case-control and case-crossover study.” Spine vol.
33,4 Suppl (2008): S176-83. doi:10.1097/BRS.0b013e3181644600
Myth 2: Chiropractors are not considered doctors
Most often people are familiar with MD’s or Medical Doctors such as their family physician, however, other doctors have different abbreviations. In the case of chiropractors, their title is Doctor of Chiropractic, and their abbreviation is DC. Most chiropractors begin with a four-year undergraduate degree often with courses including biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy and more. From there they can apply to a chiropractic graduate program which on average is an additional four years of education covering topics from rehabilitation, neurology, and biomechanics to name a few.
Additionally, significant time is spent on the development and training of manual adjustment techniques. From there graduates undergo an additional layer of testing to become certified in their province or state which includes both written and in-person skill examinations. In Alberta, these certification requirements are enforced by the College of Chiropractors of Alberta, which also requires additional training to be performed every year to keep chiropractors current and up to date.
Source: https://www.theccoa.ca
Myth 3: Chiropractors only treat the spine
Chiropractors are perhaps best known for their treatment of the spine and are most often sought out for low back pain. However, chiropractors are trained in all areas of the body and are considered muscle, nerve, and bone specialists. Additionally, manipulations can be provided for more than the spine and can include the hips, knees, wrist, ankle and more. Therefore, if you’re experiencing anything from carpal tunnel syndrome to jaw pain you can ask your chiropractor for advice and treatment!
In conclusion, understanding the facts about chiropractic care can empower you to make informed decisions about your health. If you're seeking professional support, we invite you to experience the expertise of Active Sports Therapy's chiropractors.
At AST our Unified Team is dedicated to providing safe, effective treatment tailored to your individual needs, whether you're dealing with spinal issues or other musculoskeletal concerns.
Don't let myths hold you back—schedule a today and discover how chiropractic care can enhance your well-being!
You can find Dr Evan Steinke at AST Westman Village.
