Chances are you’ve heard a lot of things about chiropractors. Glowing reviews, people who swear by it, and then the negative comments that refute those who have seen positive results. At Bodylab, we’d like to set the record straight so you know what’s true and what isn’t. We’ve put together 5 chiropractic myths you’ve likely heard but shouldn’t listen to.

​1. Chiropractors crack your bonesChiropractors perform adjustments and spinal manipulation, but certainly no bones are cracked in process. It’s much like how people “crack” their knuckles – they aren’t actually cracking them, but there is a gas released by the slight opening of the joint that causes the popping sound. Adjustments don’t hurt at all; in fact, most patients find immediate pain relief.

2. If you go see the chiropractor once, you have to keep going foreverWhile it’s true that most people do continue to see a chiropractor after their initial appointment, it isn’t mandatory. The reason is simply that they experienced relief and general improvement, so why not continue? But if you visit a chiropractor once and feel better, you don’t have to go every week after that to ensure the improved feeling remains. Ultimately, that decision is up to you alone.

3. Chiropractic is bad for children and the elderlyAs we’ve outlined in a past blog post, chiropractic can actually be beneficial to children – and that goes for the elderly as well. The key is that the chiropractic technique needs to differ between different people. For example, the treatment for a 30 year old athlete would be completely different from the treatment for a 5 year old or even an 80 year old. Every body has different needs.

4. Chiropractic is only good for back problemsOf course chiropractic is often used to treat back problems, but it isn’t the only ailment that treatment can aid. Chiropractic care is beneficial for headaches/neck pain, shoulder injuries, sciatica, arthritis, joint issues, sports injuries, and much more.

5. Chiropractors are not actually doctorsAll doctors must complete rigorous training and testing in order to use to the “doctor” designation. Chiropractors are no different – in Canada Chiropractors are regulated, and must have fully completed their Doctor of Chiropractic degree. As all doctors do, Chiropractors are trained diagnosticians.
 
To start your customized chiropractic treatment plan with Dr. Sarah at Bodylab, contact us today or book your appointment online.

​With the school year starting, parents have a long list of school supplies that their kids need. One of the most important, perhaps, is the backpack. A staple for every school-age child, it can unfortunately also cause some back and shoulder problems when used or worn incorrectly. To ensure you and your kids are ready for a safe new school year, we have some back-safe tips to share:

Watch out for the Weight: It’s not uncommon for backpacks to be far too weighed down with books and accessories, causing strain to children’s shoulders. Backpacks should not be more than 15% of a child’s bodyweight. If their books are weighing them down, have them carry a few to lighten the load.
 
Use Both Straps: You’ll often see kids carrying their backpack by one strap, only using one shoulder. This causes strain and misalignment as only one side of the body is taking the brunt of the pack’s weight. Be sure that your child is using both straps, one on each shoulder, to distribute the weight evenly throughout the body and therefore causing less strain to one side.
 
Make Adjustments: If anything on the backpack is adjustable, make sure to adjust it to your child’s body. This should be shoulder straps, belt straps, etc. The better the fit, the better the posture.
 
Choose the Right Size: Not all backpacks are created equal, and it’s important to find the right size. Though they can hold more, bigger is not always better, as it can overwhelm you child’s small frame.
 
Choose a Backpack with a Belt: If you can, try to find a backpack with an adjustable belt at the waist. This will help to distribute the weight of the backpack, and make it easier to carry each day.
 
Watch for Signs: if you notice any signs of soreness or pain, change packs immediately. If the trouble persists, massage or spinal adjustments may be beneficial for back health. Contact Bodylab if you have any questions – or, make an appointment online.