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What Chiropractors Actually Do: Debunking Common Myths

  • June 25, 2026

In this episode, Dr. Peter Lynch from Tri-States Chiropractic in Dubuque addresses the most common myths and misconceptions about chiropractic care.

Many people believe chiropractors only “crack backs,” but the reality is much more comprehensive. Dr. Lynch breaks down what chiropractic treatment actually involves and helps listeners understand the true scope of chiropractic practice.

Whether you’re a current chiropractic patient or simply curious about this form of healthcare, this episode provides clarity on what to expect from chiropractic care.

Hey there, this is Doctor Peter Lynch from Tri-States Chiropractic here in Dubuque. Thanks for tuning in today.

You know, I’ve been practicing chiropractic for years now, and I still get questions from new patients that tell me there’s a lot of confusion out there about what we actually do. So today, I want to clear up some of the most common myths I hear and give you the real story.

Let’s start with the biggest one. A lot of people think chiropractors just crack backs all day long. Now, here’s the thing… adjustments are definitely a big part of what we do, but there’s so much more to it. When you come into my office, we’re doing a full evaluation. We’re looking at how you move, checking your posture, testing muscle strength, and really trying to understand what’s causing your problem. The adjustment itself? That’s just one tool in the toolbox.

And speaking of that popping sound… let me tell you what’s really happening there. That sound isn’t your bones cracking or rubbing together. It’s actually gas bubbles releasing from the fluid in your joints. Same thing that happens when you crack your knuckles. The adjustment is about restoring normal motion to joints that aren’t moving quite right, and that sound is just a side effect. Sometimes there’s a pop, sometimes there isn’t. Either way, it doesn’t tell us whether the adjustment worked or not.

Here’s another myth I want to tackle. Some folks think once you start seeing a chiropractor, you have to go forever. Listen, that’s just not true. Sure, some patients choose to come in regularly for wellness care because they feel better that way, kind of like going to the gym. But if you’re coming in with acute pain… let’s say you threw your back out moving furniture… we’re going to work to get you better and then you’re done. It’s your choice.

Now, I also hear this one pretty often… that chiropractic isn’t real medicine or isn’t scientific. Look, I went to school for years studying anatomy, physiology, neurology, and biomechanics. We’re trained in diagnosis, we take X-rays when needed, and everything we do is based on understanding how your musculoskeletal system works. We’re not here to replace your medical doctor. We’re part of your healthcare team, focusing on conservative care for things like back pain, neck pain, and headaches.

So what can you actually expect when you see a chiropractor? We’re going to help you move better and manage pain without surgery or medications in most cases. We’ll give you exercises and advice on ergonomics, posture, and lifestyle. And if we think you need something outside our scope… an MRI, a referral to a specialist, whatever it is… we’ll tell you.

Here’s my advice. If you’re dealing with back pain, neck pain, or headaches that just won’t quit, give us a call. Come in and let’s have a conversation about what’s going on. I’ll be straight with you about whether I think I can help or not.

Thanks so much for listening today. This is Doctor Peter Lynch at Tri-States Chiropractic in Dubuque. If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, just give us a call. We’re here to help. Take care.