Just across the Rappahannock River is the boyhood home of George Washington. The United State’s first President moved to the farm in this region near Fredricksburg, VA when he was approximately six years old.  

Referred to as Ferry Farm, this was allegedly the site where Washington infamously chopped down a cherry tree with his new hatchet and later admitted to doing so too his father – confessing that he was simply not capable of telling a lie. 

This tale is a hallmark piece of presidential folklore and one of the most defining descriptors for Washington himself. However, this charming story is actually a myth – an anecdote on honesty devised by Washington’s first biographer, Rev. Mason Locke Weems, for his best-selling book. 

For someone as storied as George Washington, it should come as no surprise that tales and myths are twisted over the passage of time. In its long history, Fredericksburg has even accumulated many interesting myths. 

However, myths need not a lengthy passage of time to develop and grow. In the case of chiropractic care – a practice only about 124 years old – many myths have already developed around this form of alternative care. 

Here are 5 common myths about chiropractic care, and the truth behind the tale: 

1. Myth: Chiropractic care only treats spinal issues and back pain. 

Truth: When most people think of chiropractic, they likely think of a spine being adjusted back into alignment. While most chiropractors do provide extensive treatment options for back pain, it is also a form of care that has proven to treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal ailments such as work or sport injuries, headaches, and joint pain. In fact, as new science emerges, many chiropractors have even incorporated specialized wellness practices which can help improve sleep, balance, and even mood. 

2. Myth: If you choose to use a chiropractor to treat your ailment, you’ll have to go forever. 

Truth: Patients are more likely to take medication prescribed for life by primary care doctors. Chiropractic treatment plans are designed to treat the root of musculoskeletal issues instead of disguise or mask pain or other symptoms. Depending on the severity of the issue, these plans could run a course of only one or two adjustments! However, due to the evidence that highlights the preventative benefits of regular chiropractor visits, many choose to make trips to the chiropractor part of their regular wellness routine – much like a monthly spa day or a biannual dentist appointment. 

3. Myth: Chiropractic care is a placebo, not real medical care. 

Truth: Chiropractic care is often recommended as the first line of defense for some ailments since it can treat a myriad of health issues without the dangerous complications of prescription and OTC drugs prescribed by medical doctors. Some say chiropractic might be best explained as the marriage of science and philosophy. While founded in the science of the skeletal and nervous system, it is combined with the art of identifying root causes of ailments rather than merely symptoms. In fact, some manipulation techniques used by chiropractors are the same techniques used by osteopaths and physical therapists. These skills are learned and certified by Doctors of Chiropractor through over 4,000 hours of study, clinical experience, and board testing. 

4. Myth: Chiropractic adjustments are dangerous. 

Truth: Although it is impossible to verify that any form of health care is without risk, reported side-effects of chiropractic care have been extremely minimal compared to some other modern medical techniques and technologies. The most common complaint among chiropractic patients is a mild soreness after first-time adjustments, which typically dissipates within a few days. In fact, the American Chiropractic Association reports on the potential risks of some common physician care strategies, such as recommending a consistent intake of OTC pain relievers. 

5. Myth: “Chiropractic care won’t help me because…” 

Truth: New evidence about the miraculous treatment that has become possible with chiropractic techniques is constantly emerging. In many cases, patient testimonials of treatment success have come after years of seeing physicians or specialists who tried every trick in their book to no relief. Since chiropractic embodies a more holistic health care approach, they may be able to pinpoint and treat the ailment that your physician or specialist informed you could only be managed, not treated. No matter your age or ailment, a chiropractic consultation is a worthy step in your wellness journey. 

Dr. J.P. of Hands of Hope Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Fredericksburg, VA invites you to schedule an appointment and experience for yourself the wonders chiropractic care can do for you. By abandoning just a few silly misconceptions you may have held about the practice, you may find yourself feeling better than you ever thought possible.