Exploring the Safety of Chiropractic Care
Is Chiropractic Care Safe?
The overwhelming answer is YES! When delivered by a competent and licensed chiropractor, chiropractic care is widely considered safe. But let’s take a deeper dive into the nuances and controversies surrounding chiropractic safety.
What Is Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care is a movement-based, conservative healthcare approach primarily addressing neuro-musculoskeletal complaints. By definition, it does not involve drugs or surgery but instead focuses on natural methods to enhance movement and healing. These treatments may include:
- Chiropractic Adjustments (also known as Spinal Manipulative Therapy or SMT in research)
- Myofascial Therapies (e.g., massage, scraping, stretching)
- Exercise & Rehabilitation
- Passive Modalities (e.g., electric stimulation, heat/ice, ultrasound)
- Additional Therapies (e.g., acupuncture, dry needling, and natural injectables like ozone and PRP when proper training and certifications are obtained)(1)
While chiropractic care encompasses a range of treatments, most people associate it primarily with spinal adjustments (SMT)—which is also where most of the controversy lies.
Can Getting Your Neck Adjusted Cause a Stroke?
One of the most persistent concerns about chiropractic care is whether cervical adjustments can cause strokes. A scoping review examining all relevant literature on spinal manipulation safety found that:
Is chiropractic treatment safe for everyone?
Chiropractic treatment is generally safe for most people. We treat all ages from newborns to 90 year-olds on a regular basis! Different bodies require different approaches and forces. Our method is to start low and go slow.
Can chiropractic adjustments cause injury or stroke?
“There is some association, in the under-45 age group, between manual interventions and stroke affecting arteries in the neck; however, this is similar to that for medical practitioner visits. It is possible that the manual intervention did not cause the stroke, but that the stroke caused neck pain, for which the patient visited a practitioner.” (2)
What does this mean?
There is no substantial correlation between chiropractic neck adjustments and strokes. While strokes have occurred during or after chiropractic care, the prevailing belief, supported by research, is that the adjustment did not cause the stroke. Instead, individuals experiencing early stroke symptoms (such as neck pain or headaches) may seek care from a chiropractor, primary care provider, or emergency room—making it appear as though treatment caused the event.
But What About Google?
If you Google “Can chiropractic adjustments cause strokes?” the top answer will likely be “Yes” However, it’s important to remember that Google is a search engine, not a truth engine. Many of the alarming reports reference case studies, which examine only a handful of patients and are considered the lowest quality of research. High-quality, large-scale studies do not support the claim that chiropractic adjustments cause strokes.
Are there any side effects to chiropractic care?
The most common side effect is mild soreness. Chiropractic adjustments involve movement—mobilizing muscles and joints in ways that may be unfamiliar, especially if it’s your first time receiving care, similar to what you might feel after exercise. Staying active and hydrated can help alleviate this discomfort faster.
How do chiropractors ensure patient safety?
Chiropractors undergo extensive training and adhere to strict professional standards to ensure patient safety. They conduct thorough assessments and collect patient histories to tailor treatments to each individual’s needs. We establish connections with other providers in the community that we can use as referral partners when we are faced with an issue that is outside of our scope.
What Does Malpractice Insurance Say About Chiropractic Safety?
Malpractice insurance companies are experts at assessing risk. They calculate premiums based on the likelihood of a provider causing harm. Here’s how chiropractic malpractice insurance compares to other medical professions in Utah:
- Chiropractor: $600–$3,000/year
- Family Practice (No Surgery): $5,913–$14,339/year
- Radiology (Diagnostic): $7,079–$17,924/year
- Orthopedic Surgery (No Spine): $15,426–$44,691/year
- Obstetrics & Gynecology (Major Surgery): $25,710–$71,695/year (4)
The stark contrast in premiums highlights just how low-risk chiropractic care is compared to other medical fields.
What should I expect during my first chiropractic visit?
During your first visit, the chiropractor will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss your health goals. This helps in creating a personalized treatment plan.
Ready to Experience Safe Chiropractic Care?
What Our Patients Say
Justin M.
“Dr. Manwaring is very thorough. He has been able to help me with my neck and back issues. He is the first chiropractor to actually give me relief. He is very personable and is sincere when he is talking to you and helps you understand your body and explains clearly what will help you succeed in getting back to normal. I highly recommend Whole body health care!!“
Megan D.
“Best chiropractors around. They care about the individual, always listen, and do what’s best for you. 12/10 recommended!!!“
Kristen C.
“Dr. Manwaring is AWESOME. So knowledgeable, personable, and skilled. He’s been helping me get a handle on my chronic headaches through adjustments, e-stim therapy, and acupuncture–and it’s working so well!
The biggest thing I see from Dr Manwaring that I haven’t seen elsewhere: he gives education on exercises and stretches to do between adjustments. This makes every adjustment more effective than the last and helps manage pain between appointments. It’s a game changer!”
Chiropractic Care Is Overwhelmingly Safe
When making healthcare decisions, it’s essential to be informed about real risks versus perceived risks. The research and data overwhelmingly support the safety of chiropractic care when performed by trained, licensed professionals.
If you’re considering chiropractic treatment, rest assured—chiropractic care is not only safe, but it is also a proven, effective method for improving movement, reducing pain, and enhancing overall well-being.
Citations
- Scope of Practice for a Chiropractic Physician. (2022, May 4). Utah State Legislature
- Swait, G., & Finch, R. (2017). What are the risks of manual treatment of the spine? A scoping review for clinicians.
- Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 25(37). DOI: 10.1186/s12998-017-0168-5
- Utah Medical Malpractice Insurance. Gallagher Malpractice
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