Now Accepting New Patients

(503) 618-0147

Reader's Choice 2025 1
google review

Let’s Get Social!

Contact Us

Common Misconceptions About Chiropractors

[et_pb_section admin_label=”section”]
[et_pb_row admin_label=”row”]
[et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Chiropractors often find themselves correcting misconceptions about their practice. As healthcare professionals focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders, they emphasize manual adjustment and manipulation of the spine. Let’s debunk some common myths and shed light on the truths of chiropractic care.

Myth 1: Chiropractic Adjustments are Painful

One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that chiropractic adjustments hurt. Most patients actually experience immediate relief following an adjustment. There can be a sense of apprehension before the first visit, but chiropractors are trained to use precise and controlled force. While there may be minor discomfort if there’s acute inflammation, the adjustments are generally not painful.

Myth 2: Chiropractic Care is Only for Back Pain

While chiropractors are well-known for treating back pain, their scope of practice is much broader. Chiropractic care is a holistic healing approach that can improve the functionality of the nervous system and overall health. It can be beneficial for headaches, joint pain, and even certain chronic conditions, not just issues related to the spine.

Myth 3: Chiropractors Aren’t Real Doctors

Another common myth is the belief that chiropractors aren’t real doctors. In reality, chiropractors are licensed healthcare professionals who have completed extensive education and training. They hold a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree which involves rigorous coursework and hands-on clinical experience. Chiropractors must also pass national board exams and obtain a state license to practice.

Credentials of Chiropractors

Chiropractors typically undergo four years of pre-medical undergraduate education, followed by four to five years at an accredited chiropractic college. Their education encompasses anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and public health, among other subjects.

Myth 4: Once You Start, You Must Go Forever

Some believe that once you start seeing a chiropractor, you’re obligated to continue indefinitely. This isn’t true. Your chiropractor will suggest a treatment plan based on your specific needs, which may include a series of visits. After your issue is addressed, you can choose to continue with regular adjustments to maintain health or simply stop. The choice is always up to the patient.

Myth 5: It’s Unsafe

Chiropractic care is widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of neuromuscular complaints. Complications are rare and side effects, such as mild soreness, often resolve quickly. Compared to other treatments, such as surgery or prescription medication, chiropractic care poses less risk and can be an effective alternative.

Conclusion

The myths surrounding chiropractic care can deter individuals from seeking treatment that could significantly improve their quality of life. By understanding what chiropractors actually do and the benefits of their care, patients can make informed decisions about their health. If you’re considering chiropractic care, consult with a licensed practitioner to discuss your concerns and treatment options. Are you ready to learn more about how chiropractic care can benefit you? Leave your questions below or contact a local chiropractor to begin your journey toward holistic healing.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column]
[/et_pb_row]
[/et_pb_section]

  • Chiropractor

Dr. Annmarie King

Dr. King has been helping patients improve their health and mobility through chiropractic care since graduating from University of Western States in 2009. With more than 13 years of experience, she is dedicated to providing advanced spinal correction using safe, comfortable, and effective techniques tailored to each patient’s needs.

As a Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. King combines years of training with a patient-centered approach to care. She specializes in chiropractic adjustments and spinal decompression, helping patients find relief from pain, restore movement, and support long-term spinal health.

Dr. King earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from University of Western States and also holds a Bachelor of Science in Food Management and Nutrition from Oregon State University. She is licensed through the Oregon Board of Chiropractic Examiners, the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, and the Oregon Health Authority.

Dr. King utilizes a variety of proven chiropractic techniques, including Diversified Technique, Drop Table Adjustments, Cox Flexion-Distraction Technique, and Activator Method. These modern methods allow her to deliver precise spinal corrections that are safer, more comfortable, and more effective than ever before.

Education

  • Western States University Portland OR – Doctor of Chiropractic
  • Graduated 2009, 13 years of experience
  • Oregon State University, Corvallis Oregon – Bachelor of Science (Food Management and Nutrition)

Licensure

  • Oregon Stated Board of Chiropractic Examiners
  • National Board of Chiropractic Examiners
  • Oregon Department of Radiology
  • Chiropractic adjustments
  • Spinal Decompression

Techniques Used

  • Diversified (most common and its hand on)
  • Drop Table Adjustments
  • Cox Flexion – Distraction
  • Activator Method
  • Chiropractor

Dr. Mark Betsill

Dr. Mark Betsill is a dedicated chiropractor serving patients in Gresham with more than a decade of experience helping individuals move better, feel better, and return to the activities they enjoy most. He earned his undergraduate degree in Physical Education and Health from Boise State University, where his interest in health and human performance first began to take shape.

After experiencing firsthand how chiropractic care helped him recover from an upper back injury that was affecting his golf game, Dr. Betsill discovered the path he wanted to pursue. He went on to attend Western States Chiropractic College in Portland, earning his Doctor of Chiropractic degree in 2007.

Dr. Betsill focuses on helping patients recover from neck and back pain, sports injuries, postural stress, auto accident injuries, and workplace-related conditions. He uses gentle, effective techniques including manual adjustments, the Activator Method, and drop-table adjustments to address spinal misalignment and extremity dysfunction. He also has a special clinical interest in neck and lower back disc herniations, often combining chiropractic adjustments with computerized mechanical traction to improve pain relief, mobility, and function.

While many patients first visit because of pain, Dr. Betsill is passionate about helping them move beyond symptom relief. His goal is to help people improve functional movement, maintain spinal health, and support long-term wellness. He treats patients of all ages—including infants, children, teens, athletes, and pregnant women—and believes chiropractic care can play an important role in addressing not only spinal concerns, but also shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle, and foot discomfort.

Shortly before graduating in 2007, Dr. Betsill faced a personal health challenge that deeply shaped his philosophy of care. After multiple emergency room visits for dizziness, syncope, and chest pain, he began looking beyond symptoms alone. Through that experience, he came to better understand the effects of physical, chemical, and emotional stress on the body. By combining chiropractic care, massage, exercise, and proper nutrition, he restored his own health—an experience that continues to influence the way he cares for patients today.

Originally from northern Nevada and southern Idaho, Dr. Betsill grew up playing sports, with golf becoming a lifelong favorite. He also enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors. Today, he and his wife and two sons enjoy life in the Pacific Northwest. When he’s not in the office, you’ll often find him on the course with the men’s club at Gresham Golf Course or staying active and fit with his family.