The type of medical care you choose is usually determined by two factors: efficacy and cost. Healthcare is a hot button topic right now, but most can agree that the price of maintaining one’s health is only rising.Â
This upward trend has many people reevaluating how they approach health care for themselves and their loved ones. People are also looking into other forms of care that aren’t as visible in the traditional medical model – like chiropractic care, massage therapy and acupuncture.
For this article we’ll focus on just one of these modalities and ask the question, “Are Chiropractors Worth It?”
Chiropractic care focuses on the spine but the results are full-body. A good chunk of people are opting to try it before committing to other expensive procedures. Since chiropractors specialize in preventive care, their patients feel the effects in the long-run.
What Do Chiropractors Do?
The nervous system controls every facet of our bodies. The healthier it is, the better we can function.Â
Chiropractic adjustments (performed manually or by a machine), decrease any nerve interference originating from the spine. By aligning the spine and surrounding areas for optimal function, chiropractors help the body operate the way it should.
And, if it all sounds painful or causes you to squirm, don’t worry – chiropractic is not like Youtube and popular media portrays it. Immediate relief is often reported by patients. Even the popping sounds are enjoyable to some and they aren’t actually ‘cracking’ noises. The sounds are just gas being released from the joints as tension is relieved.
Why See a Chiropractor?
There are plenty of benefits to going to the chiropractor. The improvement in your quality of life is really a stand-out factor. It makes for a happier day-to-day, in a way surgery or other expensive medical treatments may not. However, in chiropractic care, they are an excellent side effect.
Here are some common benefits patients tell us they’re having:
Better Sleep
Few know that chiropractors can offer sleep solutions, but your spinal health and rest are definitely connected. In fact, about 1/3 of patients note an immediate improvement in their sleep after undergoing a chiropractic adjustment.
If you’re not getting quality sleep, consider why. Are you physically uncomfortable? Do you find it difficult to get into a good sleeping position? Do you wake up or fall asleep in pain – specifically in the neck or back?Â
A chiropractor can mitigate these symptoms by inducing better blood flow and relaxation. They can also consult on habits that you can adopt to get more sleep at home. They can even suggest mattress types, pillows, and sleeping positions.
If you’re unable to get any shut-eye due to discomfort, it’s time to consider making an appointment.Â
More Energy
Many on-going chiropractic patients report having more energy. While this isn’t the primary reason to go to the chiropractor, it’s a welcome byproduct.
Since the spine is part of the central nervous system, its health is vital to keep your body running. If your spine isn’t working at 100%, neither will the rest of you. This is one of the reasons why people feel fatigued. When you improve the strength of your spine, that excess energy is yours again.
Reduce Stress
Stress is terrible on the body.Â
It increases the heart rate, raises blood pressure and causes muscle tension that puts pressure on the spine. And, as we’ve already established, a weakened spine creates a weakened body.Â
One thing to remember about stress is that your body doesn’t forget. Even when you are relaxed, your body is still recovering from its previous stress. If you experience persistent pressure or strain, your immune system may find itself overworking and underperforming.
Chiropractors are trained to heal the body from this type of stress.Â
They may not specialize in helping you with your mind – there are mental health professionals for that – but they can lead your body to recovery. The work that they do is carried throughout the body, giving their patients relief.Â
Through chiropractic adjustments, they can relax the muscles and improve blood flow. Then the body can take it easy after that fight or flight reaction.
Regular visits to the chiropractor will not only ensure that your spine can help your body cope. It will also give you one-on-one time with your chiropractor. They can recommend to you options to improve a stressful lifestyle.Â
It’s not possible to take away all of your stress, but they can help ensure that you don’t feel the physical effects too harshly. Especially in the long-term.
Considering the Cost, Are Chiropractors Worth It??
Here are the tough questions to ask yourself:
- Can I commit to regular treatments?
- Will my insurance company cover it? Am I willing to pay out of pocket if not?
- Will it even work for my needs?Â
These are all valid concerns in any aspect of medicine.Â
One thing to remember about chiropractic care is that, even though many people seek care for spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, sciatica and many other major conditions, it’s often meant to be preventative. And, a good chiropractor should be able to help you avoid major health conditions ever happening in the first place.
It can help you get out of pain. It can help you fight illnesses and increase your body’s mobility and durability. It may improve your sleep and reduce stress which can result in mental clarity and focus. As you get older, these things matter. They contribute greatly to your well being and quality of life.Â
Some results from going to the chiropractor are immediate while some will become apparent over the long-term. That’s why, when you commit to going, you’re really committing to improving your future self.
The amount that you pay will depend on where you go and what your insurance covers. Check to see how your insurance handles chiropractors. If they won’t cover your appointments, that’s ok. Some clinics, like Evolve Chiropractic, are committed to making care affordable for all patients, regardless of access to insurance.
And anyway, no matter what it costs, it almost certainly will be more affordable than surgery. While you may spend $40-100 per chiropractic session, surgery can cost tens of thousands of dollars (and still not yield the results you want).
Making Your Decision
Studies upon studies show the benefits of going to a chiropractor. You could see a vast improvement in your comfort level, energy level, and general health. What you spend on monthly – or even weekly – sessions can go far to keep you feeling your best for years to come.Â
By taking care of your body now, you will likely find yourself saving money on hospital visits, medication and surgery.Â
So are chiropractors worth it? Given the rates and all the benefits we’ve explored above, they definitely deserve a try.
Resources
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15855906
http://www.thespinehealthinstitute.com/news-room/health-blog/can-stress-affect-my-spine
