This study looked at 19,722 chiropractic patients who had received chiropractic manipulation of the cervical spine. The researchers reviewed a total of 50,276 neck adjustments and looked to see if there were any serious side effects from the chiropractic care. Serious effects were defined as those needing hospitalization, the worsening of the symptoms or significant persistent disability. There were no reports of serious adverse events

Reference: Manipulation Under Anesthesia.” Manipulation under Anaesthesia. ShoulderDoc, 7 Sept. 2014. Web. 8 Sept.2014″

Risks of Chiropractic Therapy

Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest drugfree, non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal complaints. Although chiropractic has an excellent safety record, no health treatment is completely free of potential adverse effects. 

The risks associated with chiropractic, however, are very small. Many patients feel immediate relief following chiropractic treatment, but some may experience mild soreness, stiffness or aching, just as they do after some forms of exercise. Current research shows that minor discomfort or soreness following spinal manipulation typically fades within 24 hours.

Neck pain and some types of headaches are treated through precise cervical manipulation. Cervical manipulation, often called a neck adjustment, works to improve joint mobility in the neck, restoring range of motion and reducing muscle spasm, which helps relieve pressure and tension. Neck manipulation, when performed by a skilled and well-educated professional such as a doctor of chiropractic, is a remarkably safe procedure.

Compared to other common treatments for pain, such as over-the-counter and prescription pain medications, chiropractic’s conservative approach offers a safe and effective option.