Most of us have been there. We’re browsing through the archives of YouTube, and we come across a cheeky video of a well-clad man or woman in a room, standing over a willing subject laying on a therapeutic table. Then, in an unsuspecting instant, the subject’s head turns quickly and a loud “CRACK” bellows through the video audio.
Now, of course, these videos are made with the intent to surprise and sensationalize the experience of getting an adjustment. But as can be expected, the inevitable question that immediately runs through everyone’s mind who watches it is: “How safe can that be?!”
This is a common question that is scattered across the Internet, and not just inspired by videos like this type. Here at Hill Functional Wellness, we are occasionally presented with this question by new patients and those who are skeptical of what chiropractic care has to offer them. So let’s clear the air on the topic, and hopefully squash any concerns you have about the safety of chiropractic care.
The earliest known reference to spinal adjustment/manipulation dates back to ancient Greece. Hippocrates, often referred to as the father of medicine, wrote about and was depicted in illustrations utilizing spinal manipulation to address a number of issues from joint injuries to scoliosis. However, it wasn’t until the late 19th century that chiropractic care started to become rooted in a repeatable science. D.D. Palmer is considered the father of modern chiropractic care, and was instrumental in the creation of the chiropractic profession as we know it today. Since its inception, chiropractic spinal manipulation has been investigated through repeatable scientific study to provide a number of benefits to its recipients.
Today, chiropractic care is recognized in the United States and around the world as an ethical and beneficial form of conservative healthcare. Practitioners undergo extensive education and training in order to properly care and treat individuals with a variety of musculoskeletal-related issues. In the U.S. there are over 70,000 licensed chiropractors (none, of course, as handsome and skilled as your own Dr. Hills 😉 )
To answer the question concisely, chiropractic care would not exist as a widespread profession if it was not a safe form of treatment. To more personalize the answer, we think it is important to note that not all chiropractors are equal – and the skill, technique, and application of chiropractic care as administered by each chiropractor will play a role not only in the safety of the treatment, but the efficacy of it as well. Knowing how to address each individual’s need is the most important variable, as no two people are exactly alike.
It is no secret that injuries to the spine can be life-threatening. Chiropractic care was created to protect the integrity of the spine as health is restored. The spinal vertebrae and corresponding joints have natural biomechanics. As a result of daily stressors, injuries, and other means, these joints can be functionally altered and can begin to result in localized pain, inflammation, and disease. Chiropractic care naturally treats these issues at the root, returning the spine and joints to their healthy state. This process is a two-way street for most people, requiring work from a licensed chiropractor, but also requires daily care from the patient seeking help.
Benefits to Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is a versatile treatment method utilized by over 30 million individuals every year to address a multitude of issues. According to the National Institute of Health, 43 percent of these individuals seek care for general wellness and disease prevention, and another 25 percent seek care for better mind, body, and biomechanical health.
Some areas where chiropractic care can help include:
- Lower back pain
- Neck pain
- Tension headaches and migraines
- Whiplash injuries
- Degenerative disc disease
- Muscle strains
- Sacroiliac pain
- Shoulder pain
- Hip pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Arthritis
- Mild to moderate disc herniations
- Sciatica
Studies have also shown that chiropractic care can help improve immune system function and energy levels.
Final Thoughts
Millions of Americans receive chiropractic care each year. These treatments help alleviate pain, prevent disease, and boost overall wellbeing. When patients come into our Tempe, AZ office, we have two primary goals in mind: to figure out if our office is the right office for them, and if so, to help them become independent by learning about what makes them unique. From sports injuries to car accidents, chiropractic care can help safely and effectively treat a wide range of health-related issues. But if you’re still cautious about chiropractic care, no problem! We encourage you to call or email us and we will be happy to discuss your concerns. Time and time again, we have excelled in helping even the most cautious of patients!
