Is chiropractic in general a good alternative treatment?

Chiropractic isn't an alternative to anything because it's the only profession that lines up your spine. No other profession does this. now, if your in pain because of misaligned vertebrae, then yes, it's a hell of alot better than pain meds that will destroy your liver or cortizone shots that will rob your bones of calcium and make you gain weight. And normally once you start to see a chiro, you do go forever to stay lined up. I go once a month just to make sure everything is straight. Remember, those same nerves that get pinched in your spine make your body work. They come out of the spine and got to your organs, glands, and tissues. Taking pain pills doesn't fix anything...it just hides the problem. Oh and by the way. MD's have their protocol to follow. They have never been taught to manipulate the spine, so they don't. Their protocol is prescriptions, injections, and surgeries.

I've heard that once you start treatment with a chiropractor, you need it always!
Personal choice. It won't hurt you, but don't use one instead of a regular medical doctor.
Personally, I don't believe in them. Cracking a person's spine is NOT normal and they aren't medical doctors....they are "doctors of chiropractic medicine." No way.

On the other hand, I know people who swear by them--but that they say if they go to them for a while and then stop, they have a lot of pain and problems.

If you have back problems, I would suggest at least going to a medical doctor and having it checked out. Orthopedic doctor would be a good idea too.
Yes, for the most part. It can relieve headaches, back/neck pain and overall make you feel better. But if you start, don't stop. Once you stop, your pains will keep coming back. Its a quick easy nonsurgical way to relieve pain but it does not last unless treatment is continued.
I use one for my back pain but it seems like I need him all the time. It does feel good when I go. I walk out smiling ever time! We manage my pain without meds. When I see the family doctor all I get are meds. I don't like taking them. A good professional massage helps.
You have to be careful to find the right chiropractor, don't believe the ones that say they can cure all sorts of diseases.