These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.

Tara, age 24: I grew up in a family that swears by chiropractic care. When I moved out on my own in another city, I went to the chiropractor down the street from me when I hurt my back. I was shocked. This guy was totally different from my old chiropractor—he was pushy and wanted to use all kinds of costly treatments that have nothing to do with manipulating my spine. I asked around for a chiropractor with a good reputation and found a good one that way.

Joe, age 40: I've put up with bouts of this back pain over the years, but this time I couldn't walk right. After a couple of days, a friend of mine suggested I see his osteopathic doctor to have my spine adjusted. I didn't know much about spinal manipulation, but I thought I'd give it a try. And you know, after just 1 visit, my pain got a lot better.

Sandra, age 37: I'm pretty careful about who I choose for my medical care, so I did some research before going to see someone about treating my back pain. I'd heard some troubling stories about chiropractors who have hurt people or said they could treat disease that they couldn't, but then there are medical doctors out there who fit the same description! I'd also heard from friends that their chiropractic care helped them a lot. So, I talked to my doctor and got the names of a physical therapist and a chiropractor. I talked to each of them on the phone ahead of time about how they practice. They both sounded great, but it turns out my insurance will help pay for physical therapy, so I made an appointment with the physical therapist. I've been really happy with her and the back pain relief I've had after a few spinal adjustments and daily exercises at home.

Dave, age 55: I hurt my back from using a posthole digger, and I also had pain running down my leg. I went to the guy who worked on my friend's back, and he had me get an X-ray and gave me a spinal adjustment. After a week of appointments, I realized that my leg was getting a little numb, so I called my family doctor. It turns out that I had a herniated disc and should have gone to my doctor first.