Patient Education
Topics:
- History of Chiropractic
- Today's Chiropractic
- How does it work?
- Chiropractic Myths and Facts
History of Chiropractic
Evidence of healers and physicians performing manual manipulation of the spine can be found in ancient Greek and Chinese history. These manual manipulations were believed to cure many ailments, not just those related to the spine.
It was not until 1895 that D.D. Palmer performed a spinal adjustment on a partially deaf man named Harvey Lillard. This seemed to improve his hearing. Palmer believed that spinal adjustments could cure any number of pains and ailments, since the spine has the ability to press on many different nerves.
Several years later, Palmer opened the Palmer School of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, which still educates doctors of chiropractic today. Over time, the fundamental ideas behind of chiropractic have not changed much, but great strides have been made as more and more people have experienced the health benefits of Chiropractic
Today’s Chiropractic
You probably already know that chiropractic is commonly used to treat back and neck pain. But did you know that chiropractic can be used to treat any number of ailments, from allergies to osteoarthritis and many in between.
Many advances have been made in the world of chiropractic while still staying true to the roots of this practice. By taking an active role in their healing, patients can eliminate many issues of pain and other ailments. Taking an active role means not only consulting a licensed chiropractor, but also having a healthy diet and exercising. Treating your body well is the best way to stay healthy.
How does it work?
Chiropractic is a holistic approach to healing. Through adjustments, exercises, and a healthy lifestyle, the self-healing properties of the body can be realized. When you cut your finger what does the healing? Is it the bandaid that you’ve covered it with? No- it’s your body that does the healing. Chiropractic is non-invasive (i.e. there is no surgery and no drugs), so there are fewer risks related to the procedures performed. Chiropractic uses your body’s own natural healing powers to manage pain and other problems. Many patients who visit chiropractors report decreased pain and an increase in general wellness.
Chiropractic Myths and FACTS
There are a lot of unfounded myths about chiropractic. Most of them come from people who are unfamiliar with the ideas and practices behind chiropractic.
1. Chiropractors are not real doctors
Chiropractors, in addition to undergraduate studies, have to endure several years of rigorous training in their field. Upon completion of their training program, chiropractors must also complete hundreds of hours of clinical practice under a licensed chiropractor. To become licensed, chiropractors must test and register with their state board of Chiropractic, similar to medical doctors. Chiropractors attend schools which are accredited by the U.S. Department of Education.
2. Chiropractic is Costly
When compared with Western medical care, Chiropractic is far less expensive. In cases of worker’s compensation, chiropractic care can cost half as much as traditional medical care, and it treats the source of the problem instead of just the pain. Because of this, in the long run, patients often end up needing less chiropractic care than traditional Western medicine.
3. You don’t need to visit a chiropractor, you can adjust yourself
Attempting to adjust your own alignment is not only ineffective, but it can also be quite dangerous. If you’re not familiar with the different muscles and nerves in your spine, you can end up seriously injuring yourself. It’s best to consult a licensed chiropractor for any back or neck pain you experience