Myths People Still Believe About Chiropractic Care

Despite being an established healthcare profession for more than 100 years, chiropractic care is still surrounded by misunderstandings. Modern chiropractic has grown into an evidence-informed, hands-on approach to helping the body move better, recover faster and function optimally.

As a paediatric and pregnancy chiropractor based in the Vale of Glamorgan, supporting clients from Bridgend, Cowbridge, Ogmore-by-Sea, Llantwit Major and beyond, I often hear the same misconceptions. So let’s clear up the confusion…

Myth 1: “Chiropractic is mainly for athletes.”

While athletes love chiropractic for performance and injury prevention, they’re only one small part of the picture. Chiropractic care is adaptable for every stage of life, including:

• Newborns and babies

• Children and teens

• Pregnant women

• Desk-based adults

• Older adults

Each session is tailored to the individual. Techniques for a professional sports player are completely different from the gentle methods used for an infant or expectant mother.

Myth 2: “Chiropractors just crack backs.”

The idea that chiropractic care is all about spinal manipulation couldn’t be further from the truth. Modern chiropractors use a broad range of techniques depending on the person’s age, condition and comfort.

These may include:

• Soft tissue and muscle work

• Mobilisation instead of manipulation

• Dry needling

• Kinesiology taping

• Instrument-assisted methods

• Specific low-force approaches for pregnancy and babies

• Individualised rehabilitation and exercise plans

• Posture guidance and home care advice

Hands-on adjustments are simply one tool among many.

Myth 3: “Chiropractors only deal with the spine.”

Although the spine is central to what we do, chiropractic care is not limited to the back and neck. Chiropractors are trained to assess and treat muscles, joints and nerves throughout the entire body.

This means issues such as shoulder discomfort, hip restrictions, knee pain or ankle problems can all fall within a chiropractor’s scope — depending on their

training and interests.

Chiropractors also learn how to identify when something isn’t musculoskeletal, so they can refer you to the right healthcare professional if needed.

Myth 4: “Chiropractic care isn’t well-researched or safe.”

When provided by a regulated and properly trained chiropractor, treatment is very safe. Chiropractors complete years of academic and clinical education, which includes anatomy, neurology, orthopaedics and radiology.

Research continues to grow, with strong evidence showing chiropractic care can:

• Reduce musculoskeletal pain

• Improve mobility and day-to-day function

• Help prevent recurrent flare-ups

For most people, chiropractic is a safe and effective option within a well-rounded approach to health.

Myth 5: “Chiropractors only help with back pain.”

Back pain is certainly one of the most common reasons people visit a chiropractor, but it’s far from the only one. Chiropractic care can support a wide range of musculoskeletal issues across the body.

Many chiropractors also develop special interests. In my case, I specialise in paediatric and pregnancy chiropractic care, offering gentle, bespoke treatment for newborns, infants, children and expectant and post partum mothers across the Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend areas.

Considering Chiropractic Care?

If you’re experiencing discomfort, stiffness, recurring aches or want to stay moving well, chiropractic care could be a great next step. My studio in the Vale of Glamorgan, close to Bridgend, Cowbridge and surrounding areas, offers a thorough consultation and personalised plan to help you feel your best and help your whole family thrive.