As a practicing chiropractor for the last 17 years, I not only spend my days caring for clients with various conditions, I also spend a good portion of my time educating patients on health, wellness and especially, on how chiropractic care can help them get well.

What's amazing to me is that even in today's information age of Internet searches and readily accessible knowledge, many people still have misconceptions about chiropractors.

The following is a short list of some of my favourite questions that have been asked over the years about chiropractic care:

1. Is chiropractic care just for back pain?

While chiropractic care has been shown to be more effective than medication and stretches/exercise alone for the treatment of back pain, other smaller case studies have shown promising results in those suffering from seemingly non-spinal conditions.

Chiropractors use gentle adjustments to realign the spine to improve the function of the joints, muscles, ligaments and the nerve system that controls and coordinates every organ system in the body.

Currently, researchers are working within major Canadian universities to study the benefits of chiropractic care, however for years, chiropractic patients have reported many positive health changes, other than just pain relief.

2. Once I start going to the chiropractor, will I have to go forever?

This is a difficult question to answer, since every person, every lifestyle and every spine is different. Treatment frequency and length will depend on individual examination results and how long the problem has been there.

Once the initial problem has been successfully corrected, most chiropractors will recommend periodic checkups and provide some form of self-care to perform at home, in order to maintain the spine afterwards. Ultimately it’s the patient’s choice whether to continue or not.

3. It’s chiropractic care just for adults?

Anyone who's read my column in the past knows I strongly recommend having your child checked for postural and spinal problems at an early age. Chiropractic care is safe and gentle for children as well as adults.

4. Does chiropractic care hurt?

Chiropractors use gentle adjustments to realign, restore movement and strengthen the spine. Some muscle soreness at the beginning is common, however it is very minor and is usually the result of weak muscles returning to their normal tone. This is similar to the soreness that occurs following a new workout routine if you haven’t exercised in a while.

Chiropractors will also cater their technique and amount of force used to what you are comfortable with.