Nearly 62 million adults in the U.S. have visited a chiropractor in the past five years, with around 35.5 million doing so in the last year, according to a Gallup survey.
While chiropractic care offers benefits such as reduced muscle tension and improved mobility through manual spinal adjustments, experts caution that it is not suitable for all conditions.
Orthopedic spine surgeons, who undergo extensive medical training, emphasize that their decisions are research-based and often necessary for serious spinal issues.
Chiropractors, holding Doctor of Chiropractic degrees, focus on less invasive treatments that help realign the spine and relieve musculoskeletal discomfort.
Chiropractors can be effective for minor joint misalignments and muscle tightness caused by poor posture or repetitive strain. However, experts warn that patients experiencing radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness should consult spine specialists instead.
Misdiagnosing serious conditions and relying solely on chiropractic care may lead to complications, including potential spinal cord injury.
Patients are urged to seek medical evaluation for symptoms suggestive of nerve involvement or severe spinal problems before pursuing chiropractic treatment.
Combining professional medical assessment with chiropractic care can ensure safer and more effective management of back and neck pain.
