Common Myths About Chiropractic

Let’s Separate Fact From Fiction.

Chiropractic is one of the most misunderstood healthcare professions in Australia at the moment. Unfortunately that keeps many from ever experiencing its benefits.


Much of what people believe comes from outdated information, online clips taken out of context, or stories about care delivered without proper assessment.


This page exists to address the most common myths we hear every week - clearly, calmly, and backed by evidence.



Myth 1: Chiropractic Is Dangerous

This is one of the most common concerns we hear, especially online.

The reality:
When Chiropractic is performed by a registered, well-trained Chiropractor following proper assessment procedures, it is considered one of the safest conservative approaches for spinal conditions.

Risk increases only when:

  • Proper examination is skipped
  • Red flags are ignored
  • Techniques are used without clinical justification

At Adjusting to Health, care only begins after a full neurological and clinical examination. If care is not Appropriate, we do not proceed.

Myth 2: Chiropractors Just “Crack Bones”


Adjustments don't actually crack bones at all.

The sound that may be heard during a Chiropractic adjustment comes from the joints, not the bones. It's an entirely normal part of the process and painless.


This belief usually comes from short online videos that show isolated techniques without any context.


The reality:
  Chiropractic at Adjusting to Health is based on the Health Blueprint™:

  • Neurological assessment
  • Structural analysis
  • Functional testing
  • Ongoing progress reviews

Myth 3: Chiropractic Is Not Evidence-Based


This myth persists despite decades of research. There is an overwhelming amount of research that has surfaced over the last 5 years especially. You can do a deep dive by visiting our Safety & Research Hub.


The reality.
Chiropractic care is supported by:


  • International clinical guidelines for lower back pain
  • Large population-based safety studies
  • Randomised controlled trials comparing Chiropractic to medical care


Chiropractic is recommended as a first-line approach for many spinal conditions because it is conservative, drug-free, and effective when done properly. Our team stays up to date with current research through ongoing education and active involvement with the Australian Spinal Research Foundation.


“By the end of the Inquiry we found ourselves irresistibly and with complete unanimity, drawn to the conclusion that modern Chiropractic is a soundly based and valuable branch of health care in a specialized area neglected by the medical profession.”

- Report of New Zealand Government Commission

Myth 4: Once You Start, You Have to Go Forever


This concern is understandable.

The reality is that Chiropractic care is always your choice.


At Adjusting to Health:

  • Care is explained before it begins
  • Timeframes are discussed clearly
  • Progress is measured, not assumed
  • Ongoing care is recommended only when beneficial


Some people choose short-term care.
Others choose long-term care for nervous system health, posture, and function.

You decide. We provide the information.

Myth 5: Chiropractic Is Only for Back Pain


Back pain is common, but it’s not the whole picture.

The reality is that Chiropractic focuses on spinal and nervous system function, which influences:


  • Movement
  • Posture
  • Coordination
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Overall physical resilience


Pain relief is often a result, not the goal.

Myth 6: GP's Don't Refer To Chiropractors


Many GPs actively refer to specific Chiropractors they've built trust with. Others may be less familiar with modern Chiropractic standards or base opinions on outdated information or poor examples seen elsewhere.



The reality is that clinical recommendations should be based on:

  • Individual assessment
  • Current evidence
  • Understanding of the care being delivered


This is why many GPs refer directly to our clinics after seeing our Health Blueprint™ Process and safety standards.

We regularly communicate with local GPs and provide reports when required.

Why These Myths Persist


Most myths exist because:


  • Standards vary across clinics
  • Assessment is not always visible to patients
  • Online content often shows extremes, not best practice


When Chiropractic is done poorly, it deserves scrutiny.
When it's done properly, like at Adjusting to Health, it deserves accurate representation.

What Makes Our Approach Different


At Adjusting to Health:

  • Safety comes before treatment
  • Assessment comes before assumptions
  • Progress is measured, not guessed
  • Care is reviewed and adjusted based on results


This is why thousands of families trust our team and why many medical professionals continue to refer to us.