During the Covid-19 pandemic, it can be challenging to decide which activities are essential, especially when the news and opinions from friends seem to contradict each other. If you’re in pain and unsure whether or not to visit your chiropractor, you’re not alone. Figuring out if it’s safe largely depends on your personal situation and health needs. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the risks of seeing your chiropractor during this time.
How Safe Are You, and How Safe Is Your Chiropractor?
The best way to determine your level of risk is by assessing how careful you and your chiropractor are being. The CDC regularly updates its safety guidelines, which include wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and maintaining good hand hygiene. Following these measures can significantly reduce your exposure to the virus.
Most chiropractors are also carefully following these protocols. They’re likely sanitizing equipment between patients, limiting the number of people in waiting areas, and wearing masks during treatments. As essential healthcare providers, chiropractors are committed to keeping you and others safe while continuing to offer vital care. If you follow the same safety measures, you can significantly lower your risk during your visit.
Do the Benefits of Seeing a Chiropractor Outweigh the Covid-19 Risks?
This ultimately depends on your health priorities. For some, regular chiropractic visits might feel necessary for maintenance or prevention. However, if you’re dealing with a more serious condition, such as chronic pain or injuries from a car accident, those visits could be crucial to avoid worsening your condition and potentially needing hospital care.
Hospitals during the pandemic may pose greater exposure risks, especially for non-Covid patients. By seeking timely chiropractic treatment, you may be able to prevent a trip to the hospital altogether, reducing not just your risk of catching the virus but also preventing undue strain on healthcare resources.
If your condition can wait, consider delaying your visit until case numbers decrease in your area. For non-urgent issues, waiting a little longer might be the safer choice.
Take Your Personal Risks into Account
If you fall into a high-risk group—whether due to age, pregnancy, or a compromised immune system—you may want to delay your appointments unless absolutely necessary. For these individuals, unnecessary exposure could be life-threatening, so staying home may be the more responsible option.
In some cases, you might consider finding a chiropractor who can make house calls. This minimizes your exposure to others and allows you to get treatment with fewer risks. It’s also a good idea to request that the visiting chiropractor takes a Covid-19 test before treating you at home.
Stay Safe While Seeking Treatment
Safety is key when seeking any medical treatment during a pandemic. Don’t let fear stop you from addressing serious health concerns, but be mindful of the risks. By ensuring your chiropractor adheres to safety measures—and by doing your part to do the same—you can get the care you need while staying protected. Take care of yourself, and don’t neglect your health needs, even in these uncertain times.
