What can you expect from a Chiropractor?
A chiropractor does not just crack backs or pop necks into place. While they have become known for creating loud cracking noises in bodies, there are more than 100 different techniques that chiropractors can use. Chiropractic care simply refers to having a licensed medical professional use either a medical instrument or their hands to exert controlled force onto your body to minimize muscle, joint, or bone pain.
Some of the common treatments include ultrasound which uses sound waves to produce a massaging effect, electrotherapy which uses tiny electric pulses, low-level lasers which use light, and infrared saunas which use heat. Which treatment you receive will depend on what type of arthritis you have, the severity of your condition as well as other underlying medical considerations you might have.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Arthritis?
Whether or not chiropractic care is safe for you highly depends on the type of arthritis you have, as well as your overall physique.
Most people have osteoarthritis which is a major cause of joint pain. It triggers cartilage between the bones wearing down, leading to friction in the joints. People with this condition will experience pain when moving the joint as well as swelling. Chiropractic treatment may be able to address the cause of osteoarthritis, especially if it is caused by a joint that is damaged due to misalignment or because of your posture. However, it is important to take note that chiropractors will not be able to replace the cartilage that was damaged and long-term maintenance would still be required in some form.
If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, you should consult your doctor before starting any chiropractic treatment. These are caused by your healthy tissue being attacked by your immune system and therefore, require medication that can target immune system functions. Since chiropractors do not prescribe medication, chiropractic care will not be a suitable replacement for your regular medical doctor. This is not to say that chiropractic care will not benefit you at all. Your chiropractor can treat the surrounding tissue to help minimize pain and increase mobility, which ultimately can still go a long way in improving daily quality of life.
What Medical Doctors Think of Chiropractic Care?
Mainstream medical journals have recorded that there are benefits of chiropractic for back and joint pain. More importantly, a licensed chiropractor may not be a medical doctor, but they have gone through years of medical school curriculum to become musculoskeletal experts. It is important to ensure that your chiropractor has obtained the necessary certification and you can check The American Chiropractic Association’s database of practitioners to be sure.
In addition, during your first visit, you should confirm that the chiropractor has experience treating your problem as well as letting them know your detailed medical history. They should also then conduct a physical examination as well as any needed tests to determine any hidden injuries. Only then should they recommend a suitable treatment plan that is right for you.
