I am probably going to shock alot of people but I have recently tried a chiropractor. I think there is a proper time and place for them. What scares alot of people is the manipulation factor and I agree 100% that it only takes one wrong move and you can have alot of problems that are potentially permament.
With that said, the chiropractor I am seeing does accupuncture, massage, hot parrafin treatments, and physiotherapy which I have found to be beneficial. My chiro stated from the get go that I should never have my spine manipulated by anyone ever because I have had 4 spine surgeries - stretching and these others therapies are okay. I am seeing a tad bit of improvement and if I say ouch - he stops. I too am having short lived relief but I am not looking for a fix because according to the doctors it is not going to happen. Even the chiro says I will never be fixed - the damage is done. I am going to look for some pain relief and if it gives me a 1/2 a day it is worth it in my book. The massage and hot wax treatments are heavenly.
I think the key is to find someone who is really good and 20+ appts behind you I would try someone else. May I ask are you looking for a fix or some pain relief?