Is chiropractic adjustments safe?
Here are some facts. The process of spinal manipulation is safe, although some people experience some side effects. The chiropractor will discuss your history and examine your posture. Further examination may be required by the chiropractor, including X-rays and computerizedtomography scans. He or she may recommend magnetic radiation imaging (MRI) or any other imaging tests. The chiropractor will then manipulate your joints using force.
Less-serious injuries caused by spinal manipulation
While there is not much literature on the risks of spinal manipulation, studies have shown both serious and less severe adverse effects. A recent systematic review identified serious adverse events as occurring in approximately one-third of patients. The authors concluded that spinal manipulation has low risks, but these risks may be overlooked due to the fact that fewer cases are reported. This review also shows the increasing awareness of the risks associated spinal manipulation.
As a result of its risk-benefit profile, spinal manipulation is generally associated with fewer severe injuries than most other forms of surgery. One third of patients experience only mild side effects, while the rest are permanently disabled. Moreover, spinal manipulation may worsen pre-existing conditions. There are also some serious but rare complications that could prove fatal. Before you undergo spinal manipulation, it's important to understand the risks involved.
Chiropractic treatment is safe
The safety of chiropractic treatment is a hot topic. A recent study by a University of Oregon doctoral student has shown that chiropractic treatment can help reduce low-back pain, improve condition, and save employers money. The Manga Report was a study that examined how chiropractors and employers use health care resources. Dr. Joanne Nyiendo, Ph.D., led the team that completed the study.
Researchers reviewed the literature in order to determine the safety and effectiveness of chiropractic treatment for children. The study included twelve studies that evaluated the safety of manual therapy for pediatric patients. Of these, six were duplicates. Table 1 summarizes the data reported by chiropractors on side effects. The data used in the studies were from three types of data: retrospective records review, quasi-metaanalysis, systematic reviews, and case series. The authors did not find statistically significant differences in side effects reported in the literature.
Side effects from spinal manipulation
Recent research involving more than 250 articles from chiropractic journals has revealed the possibility of adverse events after spinal manipulation. The researchers found that approximately one out of every two million spinal manipulations was associated with adverse events. Of these, one-third were associated with serious adverse effects, including cervical artery stroke and worsening of disk herniation. Most adverse events were mild and resolved in 24 hours.
The study found that there was no statistically significant difference between the incidence of adverse events and the incidence of sham intervention, indicating that spinal manipulation does not significantly increase the risk of a variety of serious complications. The findings do not prove that chiropractic adjustments can be safe or effective. Some patients may experience negative effects such as headaches, vertebral fracture, or dissection of the vertebral vein. Although the best chiropractor addison may not be life-threatening, they may warrant a doctor's attention, so they are worth monitoring carefully and discussing with your chiropractor.
Recommendations of chiropractors
A chiropractor performs spine adjustments to correct musculoskeletal disorders. He or she also performs other treatments, such as soft-tissue therapy, which stretches tight muscles and releases fascia. Chiropractic adjustments realign joints and improve range of motion. Other techniques, such as joint bracing, support injured joints, and stretches to restore mobility and range of motion. Many chiropractors recommend other types of treatment such as chiropractic exercises.
There are some conditions that a chiropractor cannot safely adjust. These conditions include certain types spinal deformities, spinal carcinoma, or increased stroke risk. There are also possible side effects to manipulation that are usually mild and can be expected in treatment areas. Some people may experience soreness, stiffness, or pain following the adjustment. However, it is important to discuss any side effect with a chiropractor before you receive an adjustment.