Chiropractic has been a recognized health system for over a century, but there are still misconceptions about what chiropractic is and the aspects of the treatment methods employed. Negative stereotypes nonetheless exist about chiropractic, in part because the powerful pharmaceutical industry and lobby does not benefit whatsoever from the medical practice of chiropractic. It is important that consumers understand why some groups are dismissive of an important, low-cost, drug-free treatment.
Commons myths and the truths behind them:
Myth #1: Chiropractors are not “real” doctors
A chiropractic physician is considered a primary health care provider and as such serves as a portal of entry to the health care delivery system. Chiropractors train for a professional degree after attaining a bachelor’s degree, and take courses very similar to medical doctors, with particular focus on the nervous, muscular, and skeletal systems. After finishing on average 4200 hours of post graduate work, they serve an externship in a chiropractic clinic. Then they must pass four national board exams and one state board exam. Chiropractic is recognized throughout the world as the leading alternative health profession for their extensive focus on treatment of the neuromusculoskeletal system without the use of drugs or surgery.
Myth #2: Chiropractic is expensive
In a study in 2008, the average cost for a back surgery was $27,341 and the patients lost two months of work. The statistical outcomes are not persuasive, with only 40% of patients reporting significant relief and many needing another surgery within five years. In comparison, chiropractic care costs on average was $13,108 with few days missed at work and 80% of patients reporting satisfaction with their improvement. http://www.bioflexlaser.com/research/articles/laser-therapy-for-disc-herniation.php andhttp://www.cleveland.edu/media/cms_page_media/348/whitePaper.pdf page 17
Myth #3: Chiropractic care is dangerous
A variety of myths and stereotypes about chiropractic exist on the Internet. One such urban legend is that chiropractic causes stroke. The National Institute of Health has found no link between chiropractic and stroke. While no treatment is risk-free, including chiropractic, because of the lack of surgery and pharmaceuticals involved, there may very well be more dangers in more mainstream medical care.
Myth #4: Chiropractic care is all “placebo”
Too many scientific and academic studies of chiropractic care have emerged in the last century to consider the practice as merely providing a “placebo effect” (false belief in improved health) in the patient. By focusing on the neuromusculoskeletal system, chiropractors focus on the aspects of the body that can improve function and stability. Improving function allows the body to heal itself better and more efficiently. According to David Edy, M.D., Ph.D. at Duke University, “more research for chiropractic treatment of specific conditions has been completed than for almost any other type of healthcare. Only approximately 15% of all medical interventions, including surgery, are supported by scientific evidence.” For more information, see also: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/pain/spinemanipulation.htm
http://www.dynamicchiropractic.com/mpacms/dc/article.php?t=12&id=55164; 3. Haldeman S, et al. Arterial dissection following cervical manipulation: a chiropractic experience. Can Med Assoc J ;2001;165(7):905-06; http://www.strokecenter.org/patients/stats.htm; http://www.altmd.com/Articles/Chiropractic-Risks-and-Research
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