Chiropractors see many patients with back pain, neck pain, and joint pain. But when pain is intense, the question tends to come up: Can chiropractors prescribe medications? The answer is no. Yet, some states have a few exceptions depending on particular conditions.
What You Need to Know About Chiropractic Care
Most chiropractors provide the body with a natural, drug-free source of healing. They emphasize spinal manipulations. They also have a strong focus on physical therapy and lifestyle changes. The goal is to begin treating the underlying cause of pain rather than the symptoms. This is also why 90% of chiropractors do not prescribe medication.
Chiropractic care works on mechanical and structural problems, as opposed to traditional medical treatment. Moreover, they are trained particularly about body movement, posture, and spinal health. But, they do not learn about drugs or prescription drugs, unlike medical doctors.
When to See a Chiropractor vs. a Medical Doctor
If you are struggling with persistent pain or have limited mobility, a chiropractor is your go-to. They offer a variety of natural healing methods that could improve your health. But for prescription drugs, injections, or advanced medical treatment, you must see a doctor.
When to See a Chiropractor |
When to See a Medical Doctor |
| Chronic back, neck, or joint pain | Severe or persistent pain requiring medication |
| Sciatica or pinched nerves | Neurological conditions or infections |
| Poor posture or spinal misalignment | Pain caused by underlying diseases such as arthritis |
| Headaches or migraines related to spinal tension | Need for surgery or injections |
Can Chiropractors Prescribe Medication?
In most states, chiropractors are not able to prescribe medication. They specialize in spine health and natural pain relief. Unlike medical doctors, they do not attend conventional medical school. They obtain a doctor of chiropractic (D.C.) degree. They emphasize non-invasive therapies.
But even some states have narrow exceptions. If you have wondered yourself, can chiropractors prescribe pain medication? One such state is New Mexico. In some states, chiropractors can prescribe certain pain management medications. The purpose of this is to acquire additional training on these medications.
What States Can Chiropractors Prescribe Medication?
Most states don’t permit chiropractors to prescribe drugs; New Mexico is an exception. Here, chiropractors who undergo advanced training can prescribe a small number of medications. These are known as “advanced-practice chiropractors.” But, their prescribing rights remain far more limited than medical doctors.
Other states have proposed expanding what chiropractors can prescribe. But at least for now, most states still restrict chiropractors to non-drug treatments. You will have to visit a licensed physician if you require prescription medications.
Can Chiropractors Prescribe Pain Medication?
Pain relief is the number one concern reported by most patients. Another common question is, “Can chiropractors prescribe pain medication? The answer is generally no. Instead, they address pain through spinal adjustments, massages, and exercises. In cases in which medicine is a must to treat severe pain, they refer patients to a physician.
If you’re looking for relief from pain, chiropractors are trained to treat the root cause. They do not throw drugs at symptoms. Their goal is to assist patients in finding long-term relief. They use movement and natural therapies.
Can Chiropractors Write Prescriptions?
A prescription is a document that provides a patient with access to medication at a pharmacy. Can chiropractors write prescriptions? In most states, they cannot. Instead, the treatment approaches involve healing the body naturally.
Some may suggest over-the-counter vitamins, herbal supplements, or changes to your lifestyle. But they are not medical prescriptions. If you need medicine, you have to see a medical doctor.
Can a Chiropractor Prescribe Drugs?
Here’s my answer to this question: Can a chiropractor prescribe drugs? It remains the same. In most states, they cannot. Chiropractors emphasize non-drug methods of pain relief. They will refer you to an appropriate prescriber healthcare provider if you need medication.
But, New Mexico allows some chiropractors with extra training to prescribe certain medications. But they have restricted prescribing powers as compare to medical doctors.
Can a Chiropractor Give Injections?
Another common question is: Can a chiropractor give injections? In most states, they cannot. This is precisely the reason why chiropractors are experts in drug free pain management and manual therapy. In some states, chiropractors who have special certification are allowed to perform certain injections. Some of these injections, such as vitamin B12 shots, aren’t illegal in some states.
Injections — such as steroids or pain relievers — are usually performed by medical doctors. If you require such treatments, a chiropractor will refer you to the right doctor.
Can Chiropractors Prescribe Medical Weed?
With medical marijuana being legal in a number of states, the question always comes up: Can chiropractors prescribe medical weed? No. As part of their education and training, chiropractors are not permitted to prescribe cannabis or any controlled substance.
You must see a licensed doctor if you are going to use marijuana for pain relief. Not all doctors should be able to check up on your condition. They will then decide if you are eligible for medical cannabis.
Conclusion
So the answer to the question, can chiropractors prescribe medication? In most cases, no. Their training focuses on natural treatments. They treat patients through spinal adjustments, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Some states license chiropractors with specialized training to prescribe medications. However, they can prescribe a small number of medications. You need to see a medical doctor for conditions such as pain medication, injections, or medical marijuana.
For a drug-free way to find pain relief, chiropractic care may be perfect for you. They fall into the category of natural health practitioners, of which chiropractic care is one. It tackles back pain, joint issues, and mobility restrictions. They will refer you to the appropriate healthcare provider for medication if necessary.
To make the best decisions for your health, you need to know the boundaries of what’s possible. It empowers you to receive care that is tailored to you. If you need a professional opinion, please don’t hesitate to call Nicali Sports Medicine & Associates.
