Is Chiropractic Safe? Discover Information About the Profession, Chiropractor Training, and Common Myths in this Article
What is Chiropractic?
My profession focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the musculoskeletal system, with a particular emphasis on the spine.
Chiropractic is recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO). It is based on the premise that a well-aligned spine and an optimally functioning nervous system are essential for overall health and wellbeing.
In Spain, chiropractic is not yet regulated as a healthcare profession. However, in many countries, such as the United Kingdom, France, and Switzerland, chiropractic is considered a fundamental healthcare profession.
In the United States, 15% of adults visit a chiropractor, highlighting the trust in this discipline.
Professionalism and Training
To qualify as a chiropractor, I had to complete extensive training. I studied for five years to earn my degree from the Barcelona College of Chiropractic.
During my studies, I also trained in specific techniques and completed over 1000 hours of supervised clinical practice. This training is crucial to ensure that I can treat patients safely and effectively. Such comprehensive training ensures that chiropractic care is safe.
I discovered my passion in paediatrics and prenatal care, areas in which I specialise to provide tailored treatment to meet each patient’s specific needs.
In Spain, there are only two accredited schools and approximately 600 licensed chiropractors practising across the country.
Here is a secure website where all chiropractors in Spain are registered: Chiropractor Finder in Spain.
Chiropractic Safety and Warning Signs
A chiropractic adjustment is a specific, quick, painless, and precise movement applied to a vertebra that has lost its ideal alignment and is hindering the proper function of the nervous system.
It is crucial to understand that the goal is not to move just any vertebra, but to specifically adjust the one affecting the nervous system, either directly or indirectly.
During my training, I learned to identify ‘red flags’ or warning signs indicating when it is inappropriate to perform a chiropractic adjustment.
These signs can include infections, fractures, tumours, or other severe neurological issues requiring specialised medical attention.
Chiropractors Unfairly Blamed
It is well known that the media often create sensational headlines to sell more newspapers or gain more online likes.
Many people, including some so-called spine experts, claim that neck adjustments are dangerous.
However, studies have been discussed which have found no link between neck manipulation and arterial tears. Research also shows that patients who consulted a primary care doctor had the same likelihood of experiencing an embolism in the weeks following their consultation as those who visited a chiropractor.
One estimate suggests that complications occur in 1 in 5.8 million cases following a chiropractic manipulation.
In comparison, a study reviewing 79,471 patients found surgical complications in 16.4% of cases, with complications being more frequent in thoracolumbar procedures (17.8%) compared to cervical ones (8.9%).
Moreover, in cases where chiropractors have been sued for strokes, they have all been found not guilty, as it is possible, the patient suffered a stroke before seeing the chiropractor.
Different Chiropractic Techniques
In chiropractic, there are over 100 different techniques for adjusting the spine and other joints.
Not all chiropractors use the same techniques; each specialises in those they find most effective and safe for their patients.
The techniques I use vary for babies, pregnant women, adults, and the elderly.
For example, the force I apply to adjust a baby is extremely gentle, almost as if checking if an avocado is ripe for eating.
This individualisation ensures the safety of chiropractic care and guarantees that each adjustment is appropriate and safe for the patient.
Chiropractors are trained to adjust their approach according to the age, physical condition, and specific health issues of each individual.
Conclusion
Chiropractic is a safe profession when practised by well-trained and qualified professionals.
With a focus on precision and safety, chiropractors use specific techniques to help improve the function of the nervous system and, consequently, the overall health of their patients.
If you are considering chiropractic care as a treatment option, make sure to seek out a registered and qualified professional to ensure the best possible care.