Maia Appleby                                                                       Approximately 1000 words


7851 Sugar Bend Drive                                                             © 2002 Maia Appleby


Orlando FL 32819



 




Should YOU See a Chiropractor?


by


Maia Appleby



If you’ve recently developed back or neck pain, you’ve probably heard a lot of conflicting anecdotes about chiropractors. Sometimes they help and sometimes they don’t. This is because some back problems cannot be remedied by what chiropractors do… but some can.


The best way to decide if YOU should see one is to clear your memory of the stories you’ve heard and get the facts about what chiropractors actually do and who can (and can’t) benefit from it.


Chiropractors are trained to address the problem – not the symptoms. They work under the premise that back problems sometimes can take care of themselves when the spine is returned to its normal position and a good range of motion is restored.


What chiropractors do:


  • Find uneven vertebrae (subluxations) and nerve interferences within the spinal column

  • Adjust or align the spine using manipulation techniques

  • Massage

  • Use traction, heat and ice to treat problems

  • Nutrition counseling

  • Suggest exercise programs

  • Prescribe orthotic, therapeutic or postural equipment

  • Reflexology

What chiropractors don’t do (with the exception of those who have additional licenses and certifications):


  • Surgery

  • Prescribe drugs

  • Diagnose diseases

  • Practice acupuncture

  • Physical therapy for rehabilitation

  • Practice unproven health procedures

Some spinal abnormalities, which may not be apparent to even the best chiropractor, could become exacerbated by chiropractic manipulation. This is why you should know what’s wrong with you before you see one. If you have any of the following problems, definitely do NOT see a chiropractor:


  • Diabetes

  • Fractures

  • Bleeding

  • Neck spasms

  • Infections

  • Cysts or tumors

  • No diagnosis

Has any of the above information excluded you from seeing a chiropractor? If not, then you’re now ready to begin making an informed decision. Bring the good and bad anecdotes back into your memory and look at each case. Was that person a good candidate for chiropractic consultation? Was that chiropractor working within the scope of his or her practice?


If you’ve been diagnosed and your doctor says it’s okay to see a chiropractor, you have a much better chance of sharing a positive story in the future with your people in your current situation.