Chiropractic or Not? How to Identify Real Techniques

 

Introduction

Welcome to another edition of “Ask the Chiropractor,” where Dr. Brant Hulsebus, a practicing chiropractor in Rockford, Illinois.  He addresses commonly asked questions about chiropractic care. As a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic and the team chiropractor of the Rockford IceHogs, Dr. Hulsebus is well-equipped to discuss what constitutes real chiropractic techniques.

Internet Chiropractors: Delving Into the Reality

A frequently asked question Dr. Hulsebus encounters is whether sensational techniques seen on the internet are actually recognized as chiropractic practice. This topic often surfaces during social gatherings or consultations when someone comes across a viral video showcasing an “extreme chiropractic technique.” The central concern here is how to distinguish between legitimate chiropractic methods and mere online gimmicks.

The Foundation of Chiropractic Techniques

In chiropractic care, legitimacy is often founded upon educational institutions and certification bodies:

1. **Educational Institutions**: Different chiropractic colleges teach varied techniques. For instance, Palmer College of Chiropractic teaches the toggle recoil method.  While other colleges may emphasize techniques such as anterior adjustments and more. The crucial point is that if a chiropractic technique is part of any accredited chiropractic college’s curriculum, it can be recognized as a legitimate technique.

   2. **National Boards**: Upon graduating, chiropractors must pass national boards that test their knowledge of various chiropractic techniques. Techniques featured in these exams are considered validated and legitimate.

   3. **National Associations**: Chiropractors can earn advanced certifications from organizations like the International Chiropractic Association (ICA). These certifications add another layer of credibility to the techniques embraced by practicing chiropractors. For instance, Dr. Hulsebus is involved in creating a certification for chiropractic care for professional athletes. This will further establishes the legitimacy of specialized techniques.

Red Flags and Recognizable Standards

It’s essential to be cautious of techniques that haven’t been vetted by educational institutions or national boards. Dr. Hulsebus emphasizes that certifications from national associations or chiropractic colleges carry considerable weight. For instance, if a technique isn’t recognized for continuing education credits by state licensing boards, it’s a red flag concerning its validity.

A Practical Tip

Dr. Hulsebus offers a straightforward clue for identifying questionable techniques: If a patient’s attire appears inappropriate or incomplete during an adjustment in a video, it’s likely not a sanctioned chiropractic technique.

Reach Out and Ask

When in doubt, always ask a licensed chiropractor.  Another source would consult a reputable chiropractic colleges or national associations. These entities can provide verified information about techniques and their legitimacy. Dr. Hulsebus also highlights the importance of discussing such concerns with knowledgeable professionals.  This includes state associations, which often have officials designated to address these queries.

Conclusion

In a world where the internet can create both understanding and confusion, it’s vital to discern between legitimate chiropractic techniques and those merely performed for online popularity. With these insights from Dr. Hulsebus, you can better navigate the vast information landscape and make informed decisions about your chiropractic care.

Remember, whether you’re curious about a specific technique or need general advice, always consult with trusted chiropractic professionals or associations. If you have more questions, feel free to reach out because, in chiropractic care, it is always wise to ask a chiropractor.