Chiropractic adjustments – myths vs facts

Chiropractic care has been around for over a century — but somehow, the myths still haven’t taken a day off. From “chiropractors aren’t real doctors” to “you’ll get hooked for life,” we’ve heard it all at YFS (Your Form Sux). So let’s cut through the noise. Here are the most common chiropractic adjustment myths — and the facts that set the record straight.

Myth #1: Chiropractic adjustments are dangerous.

Fact: When done by a licensed chiropractor, adjustments are considered very safe.

We get it — the cracking sound can seem intense if you’ve never experienced it. But that “crack” (called a cavitation) is just gas being released from the joint — kind of like cracking your knuckles. It’s not your bones breaking or anything dramatic. Serious complications from spinal adjustments are incredibly rare, especially when your chiropractor does a full assessment and tailors care to your needs — which we always do at YFS.

Myth #2: Chiropractors just crack your back and send you on your way.

Fact: Adjustments are just one part of the puzzle.

At YFS, adjustments are often part of your treatment — but they’re not the whole show. We look at how you move, what’s stiff or overworked, and what needs to be strengthened. That could include soft tissue therapy, mobility drills, rehab exercises, and advice on posture or daily habits. We don’t just treat the pain — we target the root cause so you don’t keep coming back for the same issue over and over.

Myth #3: Once you start, you have to keep going forever.

Fact: You’re always in control of your care.

Chiropractic isn’t a lifetime membership unless you want it to be. Some people choose ongoing care because they feel better and move better with regular adjustments — kind of like going to the gym or getting a massage. But others just come in when something feels off. There’s no one-size-fits-all plan here. We’ll always be transparent with you about what’s necessary, what’s optional, and what’s just nice-to-have.

Myth #4: Chiropractors aren’t “real” healthcare professionals.

Fact: Chiropractors are highly trained, regulated, and evidence-based.

In Canada, chiropractors complete at least 7–8 years of post-secondary education, including a chiropractic doctorate and extensive clinical training. They’re regulated by provincial licensing bodies, just like physiotherapists or medical doctors. At YFS, we work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to make sure you’re getting the right care — and if chiropractic isn’t the right fit, we’ll say so.

Myth #5: Adjustments hurt.

Fact: Most people find them relieving — not painful.

While it’s normal to feel a little nervous before your first adjustment, most people are surprised by how gentle and precise it actually is. You might feel pressure or a quick stretch, but pain? Not usually. In fact, a lot of clients walk out saying, “That felt amazing.” That said, if adjustments aren’t your thing, there are lots of other techniques we can use to get results. No pressure, no forced cracking.

Bottom Line?

Chiropractic adjustments aren’t magic — but they’re not mystery or myth either. They’re a safe, targeted way to help restore movement, reduce pain, and improve how your body works day-to-day.

At YFS, we’re not here to sell you fluff. We’re here to get you moving better, feeling stronger, and living life with less pain — using real strategies backed by science and personalized to you.

Got questions? We love ‘em. Book a consult and let’s talk about what your body actually needs — no myths, just movement.