Is Chiropractic Pseudoscience? No, And Here’s Why!

Chiropractic practice has been around for many years now, establishing itself as an excellent resource for treating common yet painful issues such as chronic and acute low back pain and other conditions affecting the nervous system. But while doctors have come to respect and recommend chiropractic to their patients, some people still wonder if chiropractic is pseudoscience. 

Although chiropractic may be considered alternative medicine, alongside massage therapy or acupuncture, it is certainly not a pseudoscience. 

Read on to find out why!

What Studies Do Chiropractors Have?

One of the main pieces of evidence that chiropractic is not pseudoscience is the extensive studies you need to complete to practice this type of therapy. 

Some people might think that it only takes a few months of training to become a licensed chiropractor, but that is very far from the truth. It takes at least five years to train till you can practice chiropractic therapy.

Students must first complete a Bachelor of Science degree, which takes at least three years, and provides them with knowledge about human biological sciences, including preliminary chiropractic knowledge. 

This is followed by a Bachelor of Clinical Chiropractic degree, which takes two more years and features in-depth preparation. After getting both degrees, licensed chiropractors must become members of the Chiropractic Board in their country to be able to practice.

With five years of academic training required to practice and two scientific Bachelor degrees for licensed practitioners, it's safe to say that chiropractic is not a pseudoscience.

Are Chiropractic Adjustments Evidence-Based?

Yes, chiropractic adjustments are evidence-based. This type of therapy has a holistic approach to treatment and focuses on the entire body rather than only concentrating on the area that hurts. 

The entire principle of chiropractic is based on how the spine — more specifically, the vertebrae — and the nerve connections that each possesses can impact a person's health. While the adjustments will mainly focus on the area where the pain is, they will also cover the body as a whole.  

Is Chiropractic Scientifically Supported?

Far from being a pseudoscience, chiropractic is based on scientific research, and those who practice it have academic science degrees. In fact, the scientific community is beginning to back its role in treating several issues like lower back pain, neck pain, and even sports injuries, as you can see in this study published in the NCBI.

This 2018 scientific review published in the Spine Journal cites studies spanning 17 years involving spinal manipulation and mobilization. It concludes that chiropractic is a reliable resource for treating lower back pain. With the support of the scientific community, the myth that chiropractic is a pseudoscience will soon be gone forever.

So, Is Chiropractic Care Limited To Back Pain?

No, it is not. While its efficacy in treating back pain has convinced a great number of patients to visit chiropractic clinics and has caught the eye of the scientific community, this type of treatment is not limited to spinal pain. 

From treating migraines and whiplash-related issues, all the way to musculoskeletal pain in all joints of the body — including shoulders, elbows, wrists, and knees — the range of health concerns chiropractic addresses is nothing short of impressive.

Do Doctors Ever Recommend Chiropractic Practices?

Yes, they certainly do. And this is proof enough that chiropractic is not pseudoscience. 

With so many patients praising the results of chiropractic treatment, doctors have begun to see it as a reliable resource. Long gone are the days when chiropractic was new. This type of therapy has been around for decades now, and has built a solid reputation. 

Maybe 30 years ago, doctors were not so eager to send their patients to chiropractors, but in 2021, many view chiropractic adjustments as a very versatile resource. One of the main advantages it brings is that it does not entail medication, meaning there are no side effects or maximum dosage. Patients can get unlimited chiropractic sessions without worrying about putting a strain on their bodies.  

For some patients suffering from other conditions — and might be taking other medication — chiropractic is the only way to relieve pain and improve health.

Is Chiropractic a Pseudoscience? In Conclusion

So to wrap up! Let us repeat that chiropractic is not a pseudoscience. Chiropractors have two Bachelor's degrees in science, which makes them well-trained by all standards.

Hopefully, this myth that chiropractic is not an actual science will soon disappear entirely, so more patients get to experience the many benefits it can bring to our health and wellness. If you are ready to give it a go, meet our doctors, and get your first appointment today!

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