Finding Help For My Back Problems

Many people have a time in their life at which they consider seeking chiropractic care. Maybe your back hurts, or perhaps you've been waking up with a stiff neck several times a week. These are ailments that a chiropractor can help with, and there are other ailments that chiropractors can help treat, too. But if you're new to chiropractic care, you might have a few questions about it. This article will offer some answers.

Are chiropractors doctors?

Chiropractors, at least in the United States, hold the title of Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine, or DC. This is different from the title that physicians hold, which is Medical Doctor, or MD. Chiropractors and MDs attend different schools, and their degree programs are different in a variety of ways. Chiropractors are considered high-level medical practitioners and need to be licensed in order to work with patients.

What does chiropractic care involve?

The key element of chiropractic care is spinal adjustment. This is when the chiropractor adjusts the alignment of the vertebrae in your spine. Adjustments can help ease back and neck pain, but they can also have profound effects elsewhere in the body since adjusting the spine often relieves pressure on nerves associated with various organs and body systems. 

In addition to spinal adjustments, many chiropractors offer additional holistic, body-focused treatments such as cold laser therapy, guided stretching, and TENS.

Does chiropractic care hurt?

Some people are a little sore after a spinal adjustment, but this soreness should not be bad enough to keep you from working or enjoying normal lifestyle activities. The adjustments themselves should not hurt. You may hear popping noises as your back is adjusted, but this is normal and the sounds are not accompanied by pain.

How do you find a good chiropractor?

One option is to ask your friends for referrals. Who have they seen and liked? You could also visit the websites of chiropractors in your area and read more about each one's specialties. Choose a chiropractor whose specialty lines up with your own needs. For example, if you are an athlete, a chiropractor who routinely works with athletes may be your best choice.

With these questions answered you should feel more prepared to make an appointment with and see a chiropractor. Many people find chiropractic care incredibly helpful, and you are likely to feel the same way. 

For more information about chiropractic care, contact a local professional.