When Your Doctor Tells You Not to See a Chiropractor

Every once in a while, a patient comes into my office at Mountain Movement Chiropractic and says, “My doctor told me not to go to a chiropractor.” Usually, that comment comes from a place of misunderstanding rather than real medical concern. So, let’s talk about what’s really going on when that happens—and why it’s important to ask a chiropractor about chiropractic care, not just someone who doesn’t practice it.

Why This Conversation Matters

Many patients who finally decide to give chiropractic care a chance tell me the same thing afterward: “I wish I’d come in sooner.” They often spent months or even years struggling with pain that didn’t improve with medication or rest. Once they experience how effective conservative, movement-based care can be, they realize how many unnecessary steps they could have avoided if they’d known what chiropractic was actually about.

Where the Confusion Comes From

Most medical doctors get very little formal education about chiropractic. In many medical schools, it’s covered briefly in a single elective lecture or not at all. That means when a doctor advises a patient not to see a chiropractor, they’re often basing that on secondhand information rather than firsthand understanding.

Imagine if a chiropractor told someone not to go to a dentist because it might “mess with their bite.” That would sound absurd—but that’s basically what happens when a physician dismisses chiropractic without knowing what we do or how we adjust our approach for each patient.

Safe Care for Every Situation

One of the biggest misconceptions is that chiropractic adjustments are “one-size-fits-all.” The truth is that good chiropractors modify their techniques to fit the individual.

If you’ve had a surgery, joint replacement, or injury, that doesn’t automatically rule you out from chiropractic care. It just means we adapt. Whether you’re in a sling, recovering from hip surgery, or can’t lie face down, we have multiple ways to safely adjust the spine and restore movement.

At Mountain Movement Chiropractic, I use both manual and instrument-assisted techniques, and every visit begins with movement testing so care stays targeted, safe, and effective.

How to Navigate Conflicting Advice

If your doctor tells you not to go to a chiropractor, it’s okay to ask, “Why?” A blanket statement like “It’s not safe” doesn’t help you. Ask for specifics: What movements or treatments are they concerned about? Often, there’s no true contraindication, just uncertainty.

You can also ask your chiropractor to reach out to your other providers. Clear communication between healthcare professionals helps everyone stay on the same page and ensures your care is coordinated.

I’ve worked with patients who had complex medical situations—spinal fusions, implanted devices, even recent surgeries—and with the right precautions, we’ve safely helped them regain mobility and reduce pain.

Don’t Let Fear Delay Your Recovery

You deserve to move without pain and to make informed decisions about your health. Chiropractic care is safe, evidence-based, and adaptable to your situation. So if you ever hear, “Don’t go to the chiropractor,” take a pause and ask yourself: is that advice based on facts or unfamiliarity?

If you have a question about chiropractic care, ask a chiropractor. It’s what we do every day, and we’re happy to help you find the best path forward for your health and comfort.

📍 Mountain Movement Chiropractic – Spearfish, SD
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