Chiropractor vs. Doctor: Which Professional Should You See?

Chronic pain affects around 50 million adults in the United States. It can affect every aspect of life, from work to sleep and even cognitive processes. Access to relief from chronic pain is seen as a basic human right.

If you're a St. Pete resident suffering from long-term pain, no doubt you've been to many doctors looking for relief. Many also turn to physical therapists and massage to help them manage their symptoms. But could a chiropractor be the answer?

Let's compare a chiropractor vs. a doctor to see which one is right for you.

When to See a Chiropractor vs. a Doctor

Chiropractors and doctors offer different but usually complementary forms of medical care. 

A primary care doctor is often your first port of call for everything from stomach issues to sore backs. They are able to refer you to specialists, such as physical therapists for chronic pain treatment. Plus, they can prescribe medications and can even recommend surgeries in severe cases.

A chiropractor takes a different approach. He or she will use the body's natural systems to empower the body to heal itself and function at its optimal potential. This treatment aims to identify the root cause of illnesses rather than simply treating symptoms.

Their training specializes in the manipulation of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. They are able to work on the spine and joints, treating conditions such as backache, joint pain, and headaches.

A chiropractor can also help if you:

• Have been in a car accident
• Experience migraines
• Are trying to lose weight
• Are an expectant mother
• Are looking to improve athletic performance

You do not need a referral from a doctor to see a chiropractor. However, you may want to talk to your doctor first depending on your current state of health.

The Difference Between a Chiropractor and a Doctor

Both medical doctors and chiropractors are highly skilled and well-educated medical professionals. The differences between doctors (MDs) and chiropractors (DCs) begin with their education

.

Qualifying as a Chiropractor (DC)

Chiropractors complete three to four years of undergraduate study first. This is usually in a science-related subject, such as chemistry, biology, or physics. After this, they move on to a chiropractic college.

There they study a minimum three-year degree course to obtain their Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree. After qualifying, chiropractors have to obtain a license in the state in which they wish to practice. This involves passing a certification exam.

Only after they have completed all of this training and education are they ready to begin practicing as chiropractors. After this, all chiropractors complete continuing education to keep abreast of advances in their field. Some may go on to specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, and athletic performance.

Qualifying as a Medical Doctor (MD)

Becoming a doctor involves a similar route. First, you complete four years of pre-med undergraduate study. You will then need to pass the MCAT test to be able to apply to medical school.

You will complete four years in medical school before qualifying as a doctor. You will then spend a further three to seven years completing a hospital residency. Only after this can they sit the Medical Licensing Examination and be able to practice on their own.

Which Professional is Right For You?

Both chiropractors and doctors have your best interests at heart and want to see you achieve the best level of health. Many people prefer to see treatment from a chiropractor because they do not use medications or surgery. Some feel that this is a more natural and therefore preferable form of treatment.

When to See a Chiropractor

A chiropractor is a pain specialist. If you've been in a car accident and have whiplash or other musculoskeletal injuries, they can provide treatments. This can potentially reduce your pain considerably.

They can also treat headaches through spinal manipulation. This can improve the alignment of the neck and spine and improve blood flow. They may also recommend adjustments to your diet to improve your symptoms.

Have you noticed that you are not as flexible as you used to be? If your range of motion has become more limited, it's good to see a chiropractor. They can help to bring your body back into correct alignment and help it to function at its full potential.

There is no need to wait until you're in chronic pain to see a chiropractor. They also practice preventative medicine. They can help you to maintain good alignment and optimal nutrition, which can help you to avoid many health problems in the future.

When Not to See a Chiropractor

The best person to tell you when not to see a chiropractor is the chiropractor!

In your initial consultation with a chiropractor, it's important to be open about your medical conditions and history. If you have the following conditions, they may recommend that you consult a doctor first: 

• Arthritis
• Herniated or slipped disc/s
• Osteoporosis
• Cancer of the spine
• History of strokes or increased risk of strokes

But don't let this list put you off booking a consultation with a chiropractor. He or she will advise you whether they can help or not based on your individual needs.

How a Chiropractor Helps

During a session, a chiropractor will use their hands and small instruments. They'll apply controlled pressure to joints and stretch your limbs.

You may hear a cracking noise during some adjustments. This is safe and normal and is simply pressure being released from between the joints. 

Your chiropractor will give you further work to do at home. This could include stretches, exercise, ice or heat therapy, and advice on diet and nutrition. This whole-person approach can make a big difference to your well-being.

Making the Decision: Chiropractor vs. Doctor

It can be hard to know when to see a chiropractor vs. a doctor. Often you do not have to choose one over the other. Both types of medicine can make a difference to your overall wellbeing.

But if you prefer a more natural, whole-person approach to treatment, a chiropractor may be the right choice. Their treatments and advice won't just focus on the symptom. They'll look to treat the underlying causes and help you to achieve optimal health.

Head over to Unify Chiropractic in St. Petersburg, FL. Dr. Shay Ridge is here to help you manage chronic pain or make a real improvement in your overall wellbeing.



Call us at 727-440-0404 or request an appointment online today!