- Chiropractic is a complementary and alternative medicine practice that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those related to the spine.
- Chiropractic may be helpful for certain conditions, such as low back pain and some types of neck pain and headaches.
- However, chiropractic is not appropriate for everyone, and people with certain health conditions should not undergo chiropractic adjustments.
- Chiropractic is not a cure-all and should be considered as one part of a comprehensive healthcare plan that includes other healthy lifestyle choices.
- It’s important to find a qualified and licensed chiropractor who is experienced and discuss any health conditions or concerns before starting treatment.
Chiropractic is a complementary and alternative medicine practice that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those related to the spine. It is based on the belief that spinal misalignments or subluxations can interfere with the nervous system and cause a range of health problems.
Many people seek chiropractic care for back pain, neck pain, headaches, and other musculoskeletal issues. But is chiropractic really good for your body? The answer is, it depends.
Systematic Evidence
There is some evidence that chiropractic can be helpful for certain conditions. For example, a 2017 systematic review of 26 randomized controlled trials found that spinal manipulation (a common chiropractic technique) can be effective for low back pain. Another review from 2011 found that spinal manipulation may be as effective as medication for some types of neck pain.
Chiropractic may also be helpful for certain types of headaches, such as tension headaches and migraines. Some people also report improved range of motion, better posture, and reduced stress after chiropractic treatments.
Chiropractic is not for everyone
However, it’s important to note that chiropractic is not appropriate for everyone. People with certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis, spinal cord compression, or inflammatory arthritis, should not undergo chiropractic adjustments. In rare cases, chiropractic treatments can cause serious adverse effects, such as stroke or nerve damage.
Moreover, chiropractic is not a cure-all. It may provide temporary relief for some conditions, but it does not address underlying health issues or prevent future problems. For long-term health and wellness, it’s important to adopt a holistic approach that includes regular exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and other lifestyle factors.
If you are considering chiropractic care, it’s important to find a qualified practitioner who is licensed and experienced. Ask for recommendations from friends or healthcare providers, and be sure to discuss any health conditions or concerns with your chiropractor before starting treatment.
Is chiropractic good for you?
In conclusion, chiropractic can be beneficial for certain musculoskeletal conditions, but it’s not appropriate for everyone and it’s not a panacea. It’s important to approach chiropractic as one part of a comprehensive healthcare plan that includes other healthy lifestyle choices.
Dr. Jenny Li is America trained chiropractor who specialises in sports injury, sports performance, and spinal health. She graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in United States, upon completion of the her post graduate program she practiced in Hong Kong and currently is practicing in Singapore.
