Do any of you visit a chiropractor? I’ve been debating going to one for awhile, but a combination of fear and laziness has prevented it thus far. Michael goes to one occasionally and swears by it, but I’m afraid I won’t be able to relax enough before the big CRACK to have it be effective.
You see, I have a really long neck. Like, really long. And occasionally the top of my neck gets in a fight with the bottom of my head and they beat each other up for awhile until there is a lot of pressure where they connect and I start to get headaches. Sometimes my shoulders join in the fight too. I never thought of my head as particularly big (on the contrary, most hats are too big for me), but apparently my neck and shoulders are taking a lot of stress holding it up.
I usually get a massage when this happens, but a) they’re expensive and b) it feels like a readjustment might work better than just working the muscles. Lately I’ve also felt like my hips are literally out of line from where they should be, so I’m thinking maybe the chiropractor can help that too.
Except, I’m scared. A friend of mine had a really bad experience with a chiropractor once that left her in the hospital. The guy Michael visits gets raves across the state and has an office full of testimonials…yet I’m still scared.
He says I should go for it. Give it a try. What do you think? Do any of you have any experience with it?
My head, shoulders, knees and toes and hips thank you.
These Little Moments 
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June 1, 2009 at 9:25 am
Amy Lawson
My husband’s a chiropractor. If you think you’re scared, just imagine my fear when he’d come home from school and say “I learned how to adjust a neck today!” and I’d have to be his gineau pig. I don’t particularly love getting adjusted during it, but I feel a lot better after.
My advice is this:
Find a good one. Lots of chiropractors either a) straight up suck at what they do, or b) keep you coming back for the rest of eternity even though you absolutely don’t need to.
But it sounds like you have someone to trust, so that’s good.
June 1, 2009 at 9:28 am
Amy Jo
A few years ago I had a stiff neck from sleeping on it wrong. I couldn’t move my head side to side for weeks before I finally went to a chiropractor. IT WAS AWESOME!! As you are, I was totally freaked out and almost started crying when I arrived there, but the doctor I had was amazing and he talked me right out of my nervousness. I saw him once a week for a month and when I stopped going I actually missed it.
Good luck if you decide to go! It’s really not that bad if you get the right doctor and it sounds like you have found one.
June 1, 2009 at 9:29 am
Britt
I was terrified, and I went on advice from friends when I hurt my back at work after 6 months of physio didn’t do anything to help. 3 sessions with him and I was feeling way way better. I don’t go very often anymore, but I would definitely recommend one. Especially if you know people who see this particular one and they all have positive things to say. Go for it!
June 1, 2009 at 9:33 am
Barb
I actually see my chiropractor once a week…and I feel so much better for it. I used to get migraine headaches at least once a month, sometimes more. They would cause me to have to leave work and drive home (which was pretty scary at times) and then sit in a dark room and hope they went away quickly. Now that I have been getting adjusted, I have not had one for probably 10+ years! It is worth my once weekly visit to not have to deal with those headaches anymore. I still get the occasional stress headache of course, but they are nothing compared with my migraines…
My advice is to find a good one and one that you feel comfortable with, and go for it!
June 1, 2009 at 10:02 am
Elle
I went to one for a while, she was very good and reputable, but I feel that, for me, it didn’t really work. The one thing that honestly helped the most was yoga and stretching, so that is my advice for what it’s worth 😉
June 1, 2009 at 10:04 am
mags
GO, GO, GO! You won’t regret it! I had neck problems a few years back (my neck was actually staring to curve the wrong way) – and I went to a chiropractor. It was fabulous. I was really nervous – he explained everything before he did any ‘adjusting’ so I knew what to expect. I haven’t had any problems since. And, it sounds like you already have access to a great chiropractor.
June 1, 2009 at 10:15 am
The New Black
I am a big fan of Chiropractic!! A couple years ago I got into a car accident and was really messed up and the Chiropractor was the only thing that helped get me back to (or as close as I could) where I was before.
June 1, 2009 at 10:29 am
stealthnerd
After throwing my back out twice in one month (and I’m only 24) I decided I needed to head back to the chiropractor (I hadn’t been since high school). I LOVE my new guy. He works the muscles around the joints so instead of that big *CRACK!!!* that you’re freaking about, it’s a gentler *crack.* If your hubby likes his guy, I’d say try him out a few times and see what you think. But remember, don’t give up after the first visit–you’ll be sore but it’s only b/c things are going back to where they belong and that takes some getting used to!
June 1, 2009 at 10:33 am
Kaley
Hey Molly – Sounds like your hip situation is something similar to what my husband gets. Whenever he rides in a plane for some reason (maybe it’s the sitting for a really long period of time?) his hips get all out of whack and is painful. So he heads to the chiropractor and with just a few adjustments he feels back to normal. He’s never had any problems, luckily, so hopefully if you decide to go you won’t either and you’ll get back to feeling like a million bucks!
June 1, 2009 at 10:33 am
Lisa
I went to one several years ago and kinda freaked when he cracked my neck. I didn’t like it at all. From then on he used a “gun” type thing on my neck that was much gentler. I have no idea what it was called. I was scared to at first – but after several sessions I relaxed and it really does make you feel better. The electrodes on your back are great!
June 1, 2009 at 10:44 am
Jersey
I have terribly large nunga-nunga’s and it sometimes results in a painful pinch in my left shoulder. My mom was going to the Crack Doc for a while, and she felt the need to tell the CD about my large chest, and the CD suggested I come in for a crack.
I never went though. Purely because my mom felt the need to discuss my boobs with him.
June 1, 2009 at 10:53 am
each
Both my parents went to one, with no success, in fact it hurt my mom more. BUT, OM had good success after an accident, so I feel the same as you!
Ack, tell me what you decide! See, I have a pinched nerve that apparently cannot be fixed with massage and supposedly can be eased with a chiropractor but Im too scared!
June 1, 2009 at 10:57 am
DevilsHeaven
I had a pinched nerve in my neck when I was in high school that my mom finally took me to get fixed with a Chiro. Like Lisa, he used a gun thing on me, and it KILLED, but it fixed the problem, re-alighed my spine. I had to BEG him to actually crack my back though, and after several visits of just messaging and “gentle” adjustments he finally gave in and “cracked” it. I felt SO MUCH better after that.
Knowing ONE person who ended up in the hospital and knowing your husband who goes OFTEN and is FINE, I think you know where the better odds are, don’t you????
June 1, 2009 at 11:42 am
Cee
I don’t have experience w/ a chiropractor, but one of my former colleagues was having some minor back issues so she went to one. She said when she started visiting him, her back issues got WORSE, so she decided to just stop going.
After that, her back was fine.
So moral of the story – go to one you trust, not one that is just trying to get you to keep coming in to spend the $$$
June 1, 2009 at 12:26 pm
shelikestotravel
I used to get a headache every night at 5:00. It was because I was holding my head too far forward (causing a lot of stress on my neck and shoulders). I went to a chiropractor regularly for awhile, and now I go only when I need to. He’s been great and truly changed my life!
I say, find one you trust, go and share your concerns with him/her. My doctor has always been willing to thoroughly explain everything he is doing.
June 1, 2009 at 12:35 pm
Suz
Hi there – I just started going to a Chiropractor after debating it for years and am so glad I went…partly because the pain in my neck, shoulder, hip is under control for the 1st time in over 10 years and partly because he was able to show me what is going on to make me feel this way! He uses a tool to adjust my neck and back and I linked to the website about it below. He also gave me exercises to do at home for issues I’m having with my neck.
Hope this helps!
http://www.activator.com/patent_info.asp
June 1, 2009 at 12:59 pm
Julie
I’ve gone to the same chiropractor as my parents for years and he uses an activator, so no scary cracking involved. It’s completely painless and I think you get just as good results, if not better. I’d recommend trying a chiropractor that uses this method, rather than manual manipulation (the cracking). My chiro also has this table/bed thing that he has you lay on first. It has rollers in it that will go up and down your back and it helps to loosen up your back muscles before the adjustment. I’ve been going to him for 10+ years and have never had any bad experiences.
June 1, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Anna at Hank and Willie
Try an osteopath–someone trained in osteopathic manipulation. I see one pretty regularly, and while I believe in chiropractic to some extent, this is gentler, and I only need ONE visit to feel better, not 20. And that thing about your hips? They probably are out of whack–OM will fix that and you will feel about five inches taller.
I can give you some names in your area if you need them!
A
June 1, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Megan
Dear god woman, get thee to a chiropractor. They’re used to people being tense and nervous the first time, and have ways to help you relax. Plus you’ll actually feel better.
June 1, 2009 at 2:07 pm
Kasia Fink
I’ve learned a LOT about this bottom-of-head-fighting-with-top-of-neck stuff lately as I’ve been having the same problems! It’s all about the atlas bone… some very fascinating stuff. I’ve been to different chiropractors but didn’t love my experiences. Now, on the recommendation of my ND, I’m trying out this non-invasive spinal treatment that uses sound waves. http://www.khankinetic.com/ So far so good! I can tell you more if you’re curious.
June 1, 2009 at 2:59 pm
spamwarrior
Definitely find a good one. Ask your friends, ask a lot of people, do searches on the internet to see what other people say. If a lot of people like a certain chiropractor, that’s a good thing.
June 1, 2009 at 3:36 pm
Rose
I’ve been going to one for 6 years now (along with a massage therapist and acupuncturist). I feel a whole lot better after the adjustment each time. Just to clarify, they don’t ‘crack’ your back, they release the pressure that is built up in your joints which makes a cracking sound when released. I’ve always had good experiences with Chiros so I think you should give it a go. 🙂
June 1, 2009 at 3:38 pm
sparklytosingle
I did gymnastics for 10 years as a kid and royally screwed up my spine, knees and ankles as a result. So I have been seeing a chiropractor once a month for the last decade or so, sometimes more often if I feel the need. I really notice a difference if I’ve ever skipped for much longer than 4 weeks – my spine gets tight and painful. It helps me a lot.
The adjustments occasionally are a little bit painful, but for the most part they feel good, and I always feel much better afterwards. If you don’t relax, they are more likely to hurt. I second the suggestion to make sure you’re comfortable and trust your chiropractor though – I went through a few before I found one I liked enough to stick with for the last 9 years. Some of them seem to be too snap-happy. I want them to adjust me because I need it, not because they need the paycheque.
June 1, 2009 at 5:03 pm
Kristina
It is the best, life changing for me. I was having tingling and numbness in my hands and a neurologist said I needed all this stuff, but all I needed was a chiropractor. So now I preach the benefits to my friends and family b/c you just feel so much better. It even helped some GI problems I have. Make sure you get a recommendation on who to go to.
June 1, 2009 at 5:26 pm
karijo09
I have had the best luck with chiropractors. Especially for the very same neck/headache issues you’re discussing. It is a little scary at first. You are literally putting your life in their hands, but if you do your research and go to someone competent (which Micheal’s guy sounds like he is) then you’ll be fine!
June 1, 2009 at 6:14 pm
Maranda
I have a great chiropractor. hes been doing it since the 70s. I would trust my neck/back to anyone else. For me he kinda massages my back and neck and leaves me on the table with some smooth jazz/new age music for about 20-30 minutes to help me relax. then he comes back and does my neck and back and hips. Hes great i always feel soo much better after. I would highly reccomend it:-)
June 1, 2009 at 6:42 pm
Dani
I asolutely loved my chiropractor in philadelphia. He worked wonders. Don’t be scared! You’ll feel so much better after!
June 1, 2009 at 6:49 pm
Ivy Beth
My husband kept trying to get me to go in for the big crack too. I had massive tension in my shoulders from bad alignment. I started wearing Earth shoes (Zappos!) and I have no more pain, anywhere! The negative sole really whipped my body into alignment and perfect posture. I don’t wear them when I go out (they have some cute ones, but not cute enough!) but just wearing them around the house and doing errands has had incredible results. I know people swear by the chiropractor but I just couldn’t do it 🙂
June 1, 2009 at 7:01 pm
Mel
I had a chiropractor when I was a kid b/c I did a number on my back playing basketball to the point where I couldnt walk. My chiropractor was able to work that out.
Now I get the same neck issues you have… I think my head is huge (so is my hair) and the chiropractor can totally fix it. Its like if you are carrying a basket of coconuts on your head then you are not. Results are pretty instant. There is a little swelling and my Chiro has an electro machine that helps with that.
Let us know if you go. 🙂
June 1, 2009 at 7:52 pm
L B
I went to one and it really, really helped my back. I used to have to crack it all the time and since I went I have been realigned and haven’t had any problems. So I say go for it! It’s not relaxing though like a massage but it workssss!
June 1, 2009 at 9:45 pm
girlrunningaround
You should totally do it! When I ran track and cross country in high school I was constantly throwing things out. The chiropractor was a godsend! One time I had a pinched nerve in my back that hurt so much I was unable to sit, stand, walk or even eat for almost 3 days. 15 minutes being at the chiropractor and I was jumping around and starving for food.
Do it.
June 1, 2009 at 10:56 pm
Jennifer
Go to a chiropractor. I have been getting headaches for, say, the past 10 years. I went to the chiropractor originally because of lower back pain and he ended up taking x-rays of my back and neck. It turns out my neck was way out line, probably due to a car accident that I was in 10 years ago. At the time of the accident I didn’t seem hurt and even went to the ER just to make sure and they said I was fine. After visiting with the chiropractor for about 3 months, my headaches are gone and so is my lower back pain. I feel like a whole new person. He also adjusted my ears and sinuses and I haven’t had a sinus infection since. That’s unusual because I get them every year at the beginning of spring and summer. I was so nervous going to the chiropractor at first, but not one of my adjustments have hurt and he talks me through everything he is doing. Good luck!
June 1, 2009 at 11:14 pm
Shelley
My dad took me to one when I was in high school because he was going to one. We didn’t end up liking him. Apparently my neck is straight (according to the x-ray) and doesn’t curve like it should. He insisted that it was caused by a whiplash accident. I’ve never been in a serious car accident or remembered a serious neck injury in any of my sports so I suggested things like roller coasters or anything I could think of that could be the cause. He didn’t accept any of my ideas. At any rate I had to stick my neck on this foam wedge and strap my forehead down every day for increasing increments of time. It gave me headaches.
Sometimes I wonder if chiropractors can adjust more than they do in a session but don’t because they want you to come back more times so that they get more of your money. I sound like my dad, but unless you feel noticeable differences, how can you tell it’s all working?
But if your husband has a reputable chiropractor, likes him, and you have good insurance… go for it.
June 2, 2009 at 7:18 am
zoeymop
according to my doctor, NEVER let them adjust that long swan neck of yours…… the back is ok, but not the neck. ever.
i would spend the money on the massage – or teach your hubby how to give you a decent neck rub.
June 2, 2009 at 9:59 am
Kathryn
Yes. Yes. And Yes. Totally recommend a chiropractor. Do research on chiros in your area and then make sure you are comfortable when you do go in to see a chiro. I was plagued with neck and back problems, in addition to horrendous migraines. After a treatment program with a chiro, the bulk of my problems were resolved AND I have much much fewer migraines, even four years later. Massages are great, I love them . . . but they relieve muscle pain and some knots. The chiro works great in that everything gets realigned. Everything is connected to our spine, so it would only make sense that if our spine is not properly aligned, we won’t feel so great. I’ve had bouts of insomnia, nausea, etc. that were also resolved by seeing a chiro. The big CRACK is a welcome sound to me . . . but there doesn’t have to be a big CRACK. They have an instrument that can be used to realign your spine and you won’t hear the crack.
Good luck!
June 2, 2009 at 10:01 am
Kathryn
Don’t mean to start a convo with a commenter, but I am only because I could use the name of Dani’s chiropractor in Philly as that is where I live. I haven’t been able to find a chiro I feel comfortable with. So . . . Dani, who do you go see?
June 2, 2009 at 2:26 pm
humanbeingblog
I’ve seen a chiropractor for acute injuries. They’ve literally saved me after two serious car accidents. I recently did weekly visits for neck traction and adjustments that helped fix my neck almost completely after that 2nd accident reversed it’s natural curve. I used to get migraines all the time until then.
I’ve ALWAYS done chiropractic alongside acupuncture and massage. I’m convinced that chiropractic adjustments don’t work unless you’re also fixing the muscles and nerves that are contributing to the pain. If your muscles are spasming, they will counteract any adjustment. I’ve tried having my chiro do the needling, but it wasn’t until I found an acupuncturist who specialized in back pain and a massage therapist who does trigger-point releases that I got permanent relief.
When you go see the chiropractor, after your initial evaluation, be sure to ask for a treatment plan. Any chiro worth his/her copay is going to give you one. If s/he won’t, find someone else.
Also, don’t stop going because you’re feeling better if you’re halfway through a treatment plan. It’s like antibiotics–you have to finish the full course of treatment in order to get better.
Good luck! Lynn
June 5, 2009 at 8:39 am
Stephanie
Sorry, I’m a couple of days late on this because I have been away…but I cant use a chiropractor because I have had back surgery and it would seriously mess me up…BUT, my grandma goes to one I think once a month or every other month…so did my great grandma, and my mom used to go (she had back surgery too), but they all had scoliosis, and it helped them all tremendously! They swear by it.
June 13, 2009 at 11:23 pm
Shaina
Okay, I’m super duper late on this one, and I’m sure that all 38 people above said the same type of stuff, but…I LOVE the chiropractor! When I started going, I was really scared of the adjustments. But after awhile, it’s almost like an addiction! Some days, my back feels all ick, and I think…gosh, I wish I could go to the chiro today!
And also – my chiro has a masseuse there too, so for awhile I could get an adjustment AND a massage all for the price of my copay! it’s clearly a win-win situation. I recommend finding a chiro that does massage and other alternative medicine stuff in the same office.