A physician may refer a patient to a chiropractor for assistance with diagnosing and treating problems related to the spine. Common reasons for seeing a chiropractor include neck and back pain. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths floating around out there about chiropractors. By understanding the truths behind these common chiropractor myths in the Colorado Springs area, patients can make better informed decisions regarding their health.
Myth 1: Chiropractors Aren’t Real Doctors
Perhaps one of the biggest myths perpetuated about chiropractic care is that chiropractors aren’t “real” doctors. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Like all other doctors, chiropractors must go through many years of formal education and are required to obtain a doctorate degree and be licensed. In many ways, since they practice in a specialty area of health care, chiropractors sometimes even go through more formal education and training than a general physician or doctor. Unfortunately, many people shy away from going to see a chiropractor for their back and neck problems because they mistakenly believe they’re not going to see a “real” doctor.
Myth 2: Chiropractic Care Isn’t Covered By Insurance
Another very common myth about chiropractic care is that it’s typically not covered by health insurance. In reality, most health insurance companies consider chiropractic care to fall under the category of “specialist” care, and typically offer some chiropractic coverage. Yes, there may be a co-pay involved and treatments may be subject to a deductible, but most health insurance policies will provide at least some coverage for chiropractic care and treatments. Of course, it’s always a good idea to check with one’s insurance company to be sure of coverage.
However, even if you do not have insurance coverage for chiropractic care many studies1 have shown that chiropractic care is more cost-effective than standard medical care for many back and neck complaints.
Myth 3: Going to a Chiropractor is a Long-Term Commitment
Finally, some people are afraid to go to a chiropractor for help with their back and neck problems because they’re afraid that it will be a long-term commitment. They worry that they’ll have no choice but to continue seeing their chiropractor regularly, even after their initial diagnosis and treatment. In reality, seeing a chiropractor isn’t any different from seeing any other type of doctor in the sense that once treatment has ended, there is typically no pressing need for regular appointments (aside from occasional follow-ups and checkups).
Unfortunately, these chiropractic myths are perpetuated all the time, but hopefully understanding the truth behind them will lead people to make better decisions about their health.
Reference
1. http://www.healthinsightstoday.com/articles/v4i2/edlog_all.html accessed November 18, 2015.
