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Chiropractor - recommend or not?

(37 Posts)
swampy1961 Thu 12-Jun-25 18:50:02

I'm just after opinions of whether anyone has used a chiropractor for back related aches and pains?
I've been suffering with back pain for some time now and have seen a physiotherapist via the GP who recommended some exercises and stronger pain relief. I have thoracic spondylosis which is fine if I'm sat with my back supported but not much help if I'm moving around. I seem to be walking around as Nelson in reverse with one or other arm holding my back while walking or pottering about at home or even when shopping. I only take the pain relief when absolutely needed as at one time I was popping pills left, right and centre irrespective of whether it helped or not.
Open to thoughts and suggestions please. Thank you

Madmeg Sun 15-Jun-25 17:31:51

I wish I could find a suitable therapist for my DH who has had numerous blocks of physio at various points in the past 20 years. Of course as some on here will know, he rarely does the exercises at home so there is no lasting improvement. NHS facilities near us are minimal - 6 sessions with a physio is the norm and does nothing to even get DH motivated to continue. If I could find a private physio (there are lots, but I don't know how to pick one) I would gladly pay and INSIST he follows up himself.

Fflaurie Sun 15-Jun-25 18:06:23

I have severe problems with my back and neck. I have seen both a chiropractor and an osteopath in the past, both times I was in the most awful pain after the session. Having then paid for private scans, I was told that I could have been permanently paralysed had I continued with those treatments. An osteopath or chiropractor cannot see what’s going on under the skin and most start manipulations before they deign to refer for a scan/xray.

BeverleyJB Sun 15-Jun-25 18:10:32

For my back issues I use an osteopath. I have always been pleased with the results. The training is very different to that of a chiropractor.

Catterygirl Sun 15-Jun-25 18:16:52

Very helpful advice. After 12 years of knee pain a sympathetic doctor fast forwarded me for a local X-ray. Sorry to tell me it’s arthritis. No surprise there then. Another person at the surgery had banned me from taking painkillers as she told me I had kidney failure two years ago and painkillers would affect my kidneys. My latest GP checked my recent blood test and told me that my kidneys are coping fine. I spent two years in pain because of her. I thought it strange that I wasn’t put on dialysis and my urine is whiter than white! So here we are and physio fast forwarded to next week. Not a great deal of faith in physios but had two good ones. One in a Spanish village when I broke my ankle and one at St. Mary’s Hospital in London who made me lift 10 kilos with my broken shoulder and broken arm, in recovery time. He was great. I was told I would never comb my hair or fasten my bra. Oh, yes I do both. I’m a fan of osteopaths and have seen the same one over 25 years for various problems.

Caleo Sun 15-Jun-25 19:39:14

All I can tell you is I paid a chiropractor to cure sacro iliac pain and he did so . Money well spent.
He did advise that if I needed more chiropractic to go to the same school of practise however I regret I cannot remember what he said.

I initially asked him not to click my spine during treatment and he did not do so.

Caleo Sun 15-Jun-25 19:41:49

PS take great care doing any exercises or treatments if you are old and have osteoporosis.

TwinLolly Sun 15-Jun-25 21:37:47

I find a good deep tissue massage helps. I went to an osteopath who helped somewhat but I resorted to trying a good massage (not beauty salon style is they are too light). I felt bruised afterwards but after a day - i felt more relief than I have had in ages. Best of luck with whatever you decide. thanks

MayBee70 Sun 15-Jun-25 22:19:26

Caleo

PS take great care doing any exercises or treatments if you are old and have osteoporosis.

That’s what I’ve realised. It’s why I requested my GP for an x ray in the hope that he would recommend some physiotherapy for my knee. What worked for me when I was 15+ years ago might not be suitable with so much more wear and tear on my joints.

grandMattie Mon 16-Jun-25 05:40:38

In my experience, it depends on the particular practitioner. I have had brilliant ones and others who were rubbish.
Osteopaths can also be helpful…
If the first one doesn’t help, try another, until you find one who suits you.
Good luck.

Menopauselbitch Mon 16-Jun-25 09:40:07

I’ve used chiro’s and osteopaths to no avail, I have now found a sports injury massage clinic and I’ve never felt so good.

Marie356 Mon 22-Dec-25 06:00:57

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