How Safe Is Chiropractic Manipulation of the Neck?
This study was the first large-scale survey of chiropractors to estimate the incidence of serious effects from cervical spine (neck) manipulation. It is believed that the risk of serious problems from chiropractic manipulation is very low. But there are no studies to support this conclusion. Chiropractors in England and Scotland were invited to complete a survey with details on treatment and outcomes for their patients. Patients included were 16 years of age or older. Treatment included at least one manipulation to the cervical spine. One-third of all chiropractors registered in the British and Scottish Chiropractic Association participated in the study. Minor and more serious adverse effects of treatment were reported. Data from a total of 19,722 patients was analyzed. Minor side effects of chiropractic manipulation were common. This included neck pain, stiffness and soreness, and headache. There were no serious adverse effects reported in this study. Such events might include stroke,
