In 2002, I was the victim of hit and run drunk driver traveling 65 mph. Fortunately, I didn’t suffer any life threatening injuries; but, I did suffer from three bulging discs, sciatica and a tear in my meniscus and rotator cuff. Needless to say, I was in A LOT of pain! I absolutely refused to take pain medicine for fear of becoming addicted, and I put off having surgery to repair the two tears (but later had knee surgery by a wonderful surgeon) for many years following the accident. Living in pain was unbearable, many days and nights. The only thing that really helped me during that time was my Chiropractor, who not only relieved my pain but helped me therapeutically heal on my own, as well.
What I learned from being under the care of an excellent Chiropractor was two things: Our bodies are made to heal themselves when they receive the proper medical intervention and are coupled with our nutrition and faith (yes, faith….it played as great a part if not great in my overall healing as did anything else!).
The beauty of my Chiropractor, Drs. Spencer and Tara Johansson of the Spine Group, was how they understood the compliment of three components to complete health and wellness: Body, mind and spirit. NEVER did my Chiropractor tell me not to receive surgery or other medical intervention when necessary (meniscus tear, rotator cuff tear, etc., usually requires surgery). Even my surgeon supported and affirmed the benefits of Chiropractic care and its benefits. Both doctors were, respectfully, in sync with how both medical practices complimented one another.
So why does Chiropractic care receive such mixed reviews from the public and from some medical professionals? Why can’t both Chiropractic care and medicine be a compliment to one another versus in competition or contrast with one another? Could it be something as simple as ignorance (lack of knowledge) or arrogance (desire to be right regardless of the evidence pointing elsewhere)? Maybe, it’s a bit of both.
What is Chiropractic care?
Chiropractors practice “spinal manipulation”, adjusting and aligning the spine as an alternative to surgery and pain medicine (but can be used in conjunction to medical treatment), allowing the body to naturally, heal itself.
When should you receive Chiropractic care?
The mobility of our joints can become restricted and limited when we have experienced a trauma (fall, injury). The build-up of tissue around our joints usually occurs, causing arthritic pain in the area where we are injured or restricted. Alignment not only helps our joints realign they help to keep the joints mobile in the area of restriction. Along with physical therapy and sometimes surgery, Chiropractic care is a compliment or can be a primary medical treatment for almost any skeletal injury.
Chiropractic care is used in the treatment of “muscles, joints and bones” and can assist (along with proper exercise and nutrition) in the body healing itself (http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/chiropractic-pain-relief).
Are Chiropractors “Doctors”?
A Chiropracter is designated by the letters “DC” (Doctor of Chiropractic) after their name. Their education typically reflects four years of undergraduate study and four years of education through a Chiropractic school. They do not perform surgery or write prescriptions.
Do all Chiropractors use the same methods?
No. For example, some use force while others use non-force methods. All Chiropractors practice some form of therapy along with guiding their patients toward living a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
Who should see a Chiropractor and who should not?
Good question. Talk to your primary care physician and disclose all of your medical history to both your Chiropractor and MD before you receive treatment. Most doctors (mine included) support Chiropractic care and are possibly receiving the same treatment themselves. However, some patients are not candidates for this type of care according to their doctors. If you are currently undergoing any type of medical treatment, speak to your MD before you seek any alternative care (a responsible Chiropractor would tell you the same advice).
Does insurance cover Chiropractic care?
Most will but check with your insurance company, first. Also, check your deductible, co-pays and limits on your policy before you receive treatment.
Is Chiropractic care safe, effective and a good alternative to pain medicine and surgery?
Just like there are good and bad medical experiences, throughout any type of treatment, Chiropractic care is no different. What is beneficial (in my opinion) with Chiropractic care is an alternative to medical care that doesn’t involve pain medicine and injections. My personal experience has been overall excellent and effective.
To learn more about Chiropractic care visit this link: http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/how-select-best-chiropractor.
Quick Tips for Wellness: Chiropractic medicine helps the body heal itself, naturally.Quick Tips for Wellness ™, Copyright © 2012, All Rights Reserved
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