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Originally Posted On: https://floridaindependent.com/are-chiropractic-adjustments-safe/

Chronic pain in the back plagues nearly 16 million adults. Most people with back pain must continue their day-to-day activities despite this pain.

Many people turn to chiropractic care to help manage the pain as a result.

Because chiropractors deal with sensitive parts of the body like the vertebrae, a lot of people may wonder, “are chiropractic adjustments safe?”

Luckily, we’ve answered this question for you and included all the risks associated with visiting the chiropractor.

What is a Chiropractic Adjustment?

When a chiropractor adjusts the back, they reposition the vertebrae, taking the pressure off the nerves. Once repositioned, the patient generally feels instant relief, either in the back or neck.

Chiropractic adjustments are drug-free remedies, making it a preferred method for pain management.

What Risks are Associated With Chiropractic Adjustments?

Though adjustments are generally considered very safe, there is still a risk associated. The risk is mostly concentrated around the cervical spine (neck area).

Intense rotation of the neck can “hit” the vertebral arteries, which can cause some severe health problems. If the artery is “hit,” dissection of the artery and blot clotting can occur. This increases the likelihood of a stroke.

Other risks include a herniated disk or the worsening of a herniated disk. Cauda equina syndrome can also occur. This is caused by the compression of nerves in the lower back, which can occur during a chiropractic adjustment.

It’s recommended that if you have cancer in the spine or if you’re at an increased risk for a stroke that you don’t seek chiropractic treatment. Severe osteoporosis or numbness in the leg or arms can also lead to an increased risk.

What’s the Likelihood of Experiencing a Complication During Chiropractic Treatment?

Though there are certainly risks, the likelihood of experiencing a complication during a chiropractic adjustment is rare. One study found the risk of a stroke to be as low as 1 to 3 incidents per one million treatments.

The risk of cauda equina syndrome is also quite rare, with only a handful of cases cited in the past few decades.

Though the risk of health complications are rare, it’s still important to be careful and to research your chiropractor before having any treatment. This can help reduce the risk and put your mind at ease.

Are Chiropractic Adjustments Safe After All?

The short answer is yes. Because the likelihood of complications for chiropractic adjustments are low, it’s considered to be a very safe procedure. However, if you have any of the medical conditions associated with a higher risk of complication, talk to your primary doctor before you seek treatment.

Otherwise, a chiropractor can be a great remedy for back and neck pain, providing patients with much-needed relief.

And next time someone asks you, “are chiropractic adjustments safe?”, you’ll have the answer!

Also, remember that if you found this article helpful, be sure to check out some of the other awesome articles on this page!