Top 10 Myths About Chiropractic Care: Debunking the Misconceptions

March 4, 2025

Top 10 Myths About Chiropractic Care: Debunking the Misconceptions

Chiropractic care has been around for over a century, helping millions of people alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall wellness. However, despite its proven benefits, misconceptions and myths about chiropractic still persist. In this blog, we’ll tackle the top 10 myths about chiropractic care and reveal the truth behind them.

Myth #1: Chiropractors Are Not Real Doctors

Truth: Chiropractors are highly trained healthcare professionals. They earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree, which involves rigorous education similar to medical doctors. Chiropractic students complete four years of doctoral training after undergraduate studies, including anatomy, physiology, neurology, radiology, and hands-on clinical experience. Many states require chiropractors to pass national board exams and obtain licensure to practice legally.


Additionally, chiropractors receive extensive training in spinal health, biomechanics, and musculoskeletal conditions, making them specialists in non-invasive, drug-free pain management. Unlike general practitioners who focus on a wide range of medical conditions, chiropractors concentrate on optimizing spinal function to improve overall health.

Source: National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE)

Myth #2: Chiropractic Adjustments Are Dangerous

Truth: Chiropractic adjustments are generally safe when performed by a licensed professional. Research shows that spinal adjustments pose minimal risks, especially compared to prescription medications and surgery. Common side effects, such as mild soreness, are temporary and often resolve quickly. Severe complications are exceedingly rare.


Chiropractors use specific techniques tailored to each patient’s needs. They conduct thorough assessments, including X-rays if necessary, to ensure the safety of adjustments. The vast majority of patients report relief and improved mobility following treatment.

Source: Mayo Clinic – "Are Chiropractic Adjustments Safe?"

Myth #3: Chiropractic Care Is Only for Back Pain

Truth: While chiropractic care is highly effective for back pain, it also addresses a variety of conditions such as headaches, neck pain, joint issues, sciatica, and even stress-related tension. Additionally, chiropractic care enhances nervous system function, which supports overall health and wellness.


Many people also seek chiropractic care for posture correction, sports performance enhancement, and relief from chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia. By improving spinal alignment, chiropractic care can help alleviate pressure on nerves and support better bodily function.

Source: American Chiropractic Association (ACA)

Myth #4: Once You Start Chiropractic Care, You Have to Keep Going Forever

Truth:  Chiropractic care is not addictive, nor is it a lifetime commitment. Many patients choose to continue care because they experience ongoing benefits, but there is no obligation to do so. Chiropractors create individualized treatment plans that may include short-term relief care, corrective care, or long-term maintenance, depending on the patient's needs and goals.



Think of chiropractic care like going to the gym or seeing a dentist. While regular visits can help maintain spinal health, the frequency of care depends on each individual’s lifestyle and health goals. Some people come in only when they have acute pain, while others prefer routine care for overall well-being.

Source: Spine Health Journal

Myth #5: Chiropractic Adjustments Are Painful

Truth:  Most chiropractic adjustments are painless. Patients often feel relief immediately after an adjustment. In some cases, slight soreness may occur, similar to post-exercise discomfort, but it typically resolves within a day or two. Many patients report that adjustments feel like a satisfying stretch or release of tension.


Chiropractors use gentle techniques, especially for sensitive patients, children, and seniors. Techniques like instrument-assisted adjustments and low-force mobilizations ensure a comfortable and effective experience.

Source:  Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics

Myth #6: Chiropractic Care Is Not Backed by Science

Truth: There is a wealth of scientific research supporting the effectiveness of chiropractic care for various conditions. Studies show that spinal manipulation is an effective treatment for lower back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Research also indicates that chiropractic adjustments can improve joint function and reduce the need for pain medications.



Leading healthcare organizations, including the American College of Physicians, recommend spinal adjustments as a first-line treatment for lower back pain. Chiropractic research continues to grow, further validating its effectiveness.

Source:  Harvard Medical School – "The Science Behind Chiropractic Care"

Myth #7: Chiropractic Care Is Expensive

Truth: Chiropractic care is often more cost-effective than traditional medical treatments, especially when compared to surgery or long-term prescription medication use. Many insurance plans cover chiropractic visits, and some chiropractors offer affordable payment options. Investing in chiropractic care can help prevent costly medical interventions down the road.


Research shows that patients who seek chiropractic care often spend less on overall healthcare costs, as they experience quicker recovery times and reduced dependency on medications.

Source:  Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Myth #8: Chiropractic Adjustments Can Cause Stroke

Truth: The risk of stroke from a chiropractic adjustment is extremely rare. Research shows that the likelihood of experiencing a stroke from a cervical adjustment is about 1 in 5.85 million adjustments. The majority of reported cases involve pre-existing conditions unrelated to chiropractic care. Chiropractors are trained to assess risk factors and avoid adjustments in high-risk individuals.



The misconception stems from a misunderstanding of vertebral artery dissection, which is more commonly associated with daily activities like turning your head abruptly or looking up while painting a ceiling than with chiropractic care.

Source: American Journal of Neuroradiology

Myth #9: Chiropractors Only "Crack Backs"

Truth: Chiropractic care involves much more than spinal adjustments. Chiropractors use a holistic approach to health, including soft tissue therapy, rehabilitative exercises, lifestyle counseling, and nutrition guidance. Many chiropractors work in conjunction with medical doctors, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.



Some chiropractic techniques involve no "cracking" at all. Methods like Activator adjustments and gentle mobilization techniques are used for those who prefer a lighter touch.

Source: American Chiropractic Association (ACA)

Myth #10: Chiropractic Care Doesn’t Work

Truth: Numerous studies have proven the effectiveness of chiropractic care for various conditions. The American College of Physicians recommends spinal adjustments as a first-line treatment for lower back pain. Patients worldwide report reduced pain, improved mobility, and enhanced overall well-being after chiropractic care.



Many professional athletes, including those in the NFL, NBA, and Olympic teams, rely on chiropractic care to optimize performance and recover from injuries. Chiropractic care is recognized as a valuable part of an integrative approach to health and wellness.

Source: The Lancet – "Non-Invasive Treatments for Low Back Pain"

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Health with Chiropractic Care

Now that we’ve debunked these common chiropractic myths, it's clear that chiropractic care is a safe, effective, and science-backed approach to better health. Whether you're dealing with pain, mobility issues, or simply want to enhance your well-being, chiropractic care can help.


At Innervate Chiropractic, we are committed to providing personalized, high-quality care to help you live pain-free and achieve optimal wellness. Don’t let myths keep you from experiencing the benefits of chiropractic care!


Ready to experience the truth about chiropractic for yourself? Schedule an appointment today by calling or texting (405) 440-3326 or book online at www.InnervateChiropractic.com. We look forward to helping you feel your best!

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