Everyone likes to have their knuckles pop. The sound makes it even better, more tempting. When we look at the videos of people getting their knuckles popped and bones adjusted and the mic enhances the sound of pop, crack and snap, it looks even more enticing. These videos are going viral on social media, where a chiropractor pops or adjusts the bones of a patient who has been dealing with excruciating pain for a long time. After the adjustment is done, the patient feels happy and is free of pain. What is Chiropractic?It is a form of alternative medicine under the category of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of medical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially of the spine. Whereas a chiropractor is an expert, primary contact practitioner, who treats the musculoskeletal problems by adjusting the bone placements. What are the Benefits?A 2015 study on chiropractic practices published in the National Library of Medicine found that it improved some upper body conditions like neck and shoulder pain. However, the study also mentions that it is unsure whether chiropractic practices help in other diseases, including asthma. Another study from 2016 states that it is equally effective as physical therapy. Are There Any Risks?Richard Brown, secretary general of the World Federation of Chiropractic opines that posting videos on social media may create concerns as people do not know if the person practicing is licensed and if the subject is a bona fide patient. These videos claim to magically cure long-term pain, which can further create misinformation. Ben Breen, a chiropractor who practices in London points out the false narrative. While it is great to market your profession, one should not spread false narratives of “miracle cure.” “It just portrays this narrative of: We can just come in, click somebody from head to toe, and they’re pretty much going to be back on top of the game. Unfortunately, it does not work like that,” he said in an interview with The New York Times. What is the Right Way?The truth is that chiropractic practices help with disc problems, however, they are not just a one-time cure. These need repetitive sessions. Such viral videos without revealing the process of treatment are also leaving many patients confused as to how the process works. There are now chiropractors for animals too. With them too, one session is not enough, as it is a treatment and not a magical cure.