Is Chiropractic Safe? Understanding the Evidence and Risks
Is Chiropractic Safe? What You Really Need to Know
If you’ve ever thought about seeing a chiropractor, you’ve probably wondered: “Is chiropractic safe?” It’s one of the most common questions new patients ask — and a very reasonable one. When it comes to your spine and nervous system, you want to be absolutely sure you’re in good hands.
The short answer: yes, chiropractic is safe when performed by a qualified professional. In fact, studies consistently show that chiropractic care for back pain and other musculoskeletal issues carries a very low risk of adverse effects — and is often much safer than common alternatives like long-term medication or surgery.
What the Research Says
Research has examined the safety of chiropractic adjustments for decades. Large studies confirm that serious side effects are extremely rare.
For example:
- A review published in the Spine Journal found that adverse events from chiropractic spinal manipulation are very uncommon, and when they occur, they are typically mild and temporary, such as short-term soreness (Spine Journal). Relative risk was deemed not significant.
- According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) 2016, chiropractic is considered safe for most people when performed by trained professionals (NCCIH).
- The risks of chiropractic care for neck pain are very low and seem to outweigh the potential risks according to a large study done by Rubenstein 2007. This was supported by Thiel 2007 in Spine who concluded that the risk of a serious adverse event was low to very low.
Compared with pain medications — which can carry risks of dependency, complications, stomach ulcers, or liver problems — or surgery, which always carries inherent risks, chiropractic is one of the safest evidence-based ways to manage back pain. A study by Tai 2021 showed that Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a common cause of stomach ulcers and cardiovascular events.
What to Expect After an Adjustment
Most people feel relief, ease of movement, or lightness after a chiropractic adjustment. Occasionally, you might notice mild muscle soreness — similar to how you’d feel after trying a new workout. This usually settles within 24–48 hours.
Unlike the risks associated with stronger interventions, chiropractic side effects are generally minor, short-lived, and manageable.
Who Should Be Cautious?
While chiropractic care is safe for the majority of people, there are some cases where modifications or medical clearance are needed — for example:
- Severe osteoporosis
- Spinal fractures
- Certain vascular conditions
- Recent spinal surgery
A qualified chiropractor will always take a full health history and, if necessary, collaborate with your GP or specialist to ensure care is appropriate for your situation.
Why So Many People Choose Chiropractic for Back Pain
Beyond safety, people value chiropractic because it:
- Provides natural, drug-free pain relief
- Helps restore normal joint and muscle function
- Supports long-term spinal health and prevention of flare-ups
- Fits into a broader healthy lifestyle, alongside exercise, good posture, and balanced movement
When you ask, “Is chiropractic safe?”, the bigger picture is that it’s not just safe — it’s often one of the gentlest, most effective, and most empowering choices for people living with back pain.
Understanding Spinal Adjustments to treat your Back Pain
