Is Chiropractic Safe? Exploring the Evidence
Safety is often at the forefront of healthcare decisions, particularly when considering chiropractic care for yourself or your family. Misconceptions can lead to hesitation, but research consistently demonstrates that chiropractic care is a safe and effective option when provided by qualified professionals.
“Published studies and reports through the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme show that chiropractic is a low-risk health modality. While chiropractic treatment is generally considered safe, occasionally it may cause adverse reactions in some people.”
— Chiropractic Association of Australia
Let’s explore what the evidence says about its safety, especially for children.
Understanding Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders through techniques like spinal manipulation, joint mobilisation, and soft tissue therapy. These approaches aim to improve overall health and well-being by addressing issues such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches.
“Chiropractors carry out spinal diagnosis and therapy at a sophisticated and refined level.”
— New Zealand Report (Hasselberg PD, Government Printer, Wellington – 1979)
In Australia, chiropractors undergo extensive training and are regulated by the Chiropractic Board of Australia, ensuring adherence to high professional standards. According to the Australian Chiropractors Association, chiropractors care for up to 300,000 Australian patients each week, including more than 30,000 paediatric patients aged 0-18 years.
“Chiropractors provide patient-centred care and work in partnership with the consumers of chiropractic services. This includes using shared decision-making through the informed consent process and communication strategies tailored to the needs and preferences of the patient.”
— Chiropractic Association of Australia
What Does the Research Say About Safety?
The safety of chiropractic care, particularly spinal manipulation, has been extensively studied. Here are some key findings from academic research:
- Rare Serious Adverse Events
A comprehensive review by Humphreys (2010) examined potential adverse events in children treated with manual therapy. Across more than 5,400 treatments analysed, only three minor adverse events were reported—all of which were short-lived. Importantly, no serious adverse events were recorded, underscoring the strong safety profile of chiropractic care for children.
- Chiropractic vs. Other Treatments
A systematic review by Carnes et al. (2010) investigated adverse events across various therapies. The findings highlighted that while minor, temporary side effects (e.g., soreness or stiffness) can occur after chiropractic treatments, serious adverse events are exceedingly rare—less than 0.13% of cases. This rate is significantly lower than the risks associated with medications commonly used for musculoskeletal pain, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can lead to gastrointestinal or cardiovascular complications.
- Paediatric Chiropractic Care
Another study by Miller and Benfield (2008) focused on chiropractic treatments for children under three years of age. Out of more than 5,000 treatment visits, only seven minor adverse events were reported, none of which required medical intervention. This strong safety record reflects the gentle, tailored techniques chiropractors use when working with children.
Why Chiropractic Care Is a Safe Choice
When compared to alternative treatments, chiropractic care stands out for its safety and efficacy. Medications for pain management often carry risks of significant side effects, whereas chiropractic care is non-invasive and drug-free.
Chiropractors are trained to identify contraindications and adapt their techniques to suit the individual needs of each patient, ensuring safe and effective care. For children, chiropractors use gentle techniques specifically designed for their developing bodies, further enhancing the safety profile of their treatments.
Final Thoughts
The evidence overwhelmingly supports the safety of chiropractic care, particularly when delivered by trained and licensed professionals. Whether for children or adults, chiropractic treatment offers an effective and low-risk solution for addressing musculoskeletal concerns.
As Humphreys (2010) concludes:
“…serious adverse events are rare.”
If you are considering chiropractic care, consult a registered practitioner to ensure personalised, safe, and evidence-based treatment. Chiropractic is more than a method of pain management—it’s a proactive step toward better health and well-being.