Chiropractic care is a natural and non-invasive alternative to traditional medical interventions like drugs and surgery. Many individuals seek chiropractic treatment for various musculoskeletal issues, such as back pain, sciatica, neck pain, migraines and headaches. One of the key advantages of chiropractic care is its safety profile compared to the potential risks associated with pharmaceuticals and surgical procedures.

Unlike drugs that may come with side effects and the risk of dependency, chiropractic adjustments focus on the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Chiropractors use manual manipulation techniques to address misalignments in the spine, promoting proper nerve function and overall well-being. This drug-free approach reduces the likelihood of adverse reactions commonly associated with medications.

Furthermore, chiropractic care can be a safer option compared to surgery, which carries inherent risks and requires a recovery period. Chiropractors aim to treat the root cause of the issue rather than merely alleviating symptoms through invasive procedures.

Soreness after treatment is not uncommon: especially after the first few treatments. This is normally only lasts for a short time and is a sign that changes are happening. Discuss any unexpected changes with your chiropractor immediately as it may be necessary to change the care plan or get reassurance.

There has been recent publicity about the risks of stroke after neck “manipulation”. Research indicates that the risk is no more than would occur in the general population, not having neck “manipulation”. The same risk as having your hair washed in hairdressers, star gazing or reversing your car.

Chiropractic care has gained popularity as a non-invasive alternative for managing various musculoskeletal conditions, but concerns about its safety persist.

One common question individuals ask is whether chiropractic adjustments hurt and how the risks compare to conventional treatments like drugs and surgery.

Chiropractic adjustments involve restoring normal movement patterns to the spine and other joints with a fast and shallow movement to alleviate pain and improve overall function.

For many individuals, the idea of joints being adjusted may raise concerns about pain. It’s crucial to note that the experience of chiropractic adjustments varies from person to person.

While some patients report mild discomfort or soreness, the majority find the treatment painless.

Chiropractors are trained to use gentle techniques and tailor their approach to each patient’s physical condition, preferences comfort level.

Because of the very wide range of techniques available to our chiropractors we are able to care for all ages if appropriate. Obviously, we will tend to use the gentlest of techniques on babies, small children, the frail and elderly people.

A Canadian government (Ontario Ministry of Health) study to examine the “effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of chiropractic management of low-back pain” concluded that “there would be a highly significant cost saving if more management of low-back pain was transferred from physicians to chiropractors” and that sufferers tended to return to work sooner after chiropractic care.

Studies in Australia and America have remarkably similar findings.

Chiropractors only adjust joints that are hypomobile or locked up. Years of training focus on using the minimum amount of force needed to achieve this. Hypermobile joints are more likely to develop above and below uncorrected hypomobile joints resulting in spinal imbalance.

This varies with each patient, depending upon their problems, spinal status and their health or wellness goals.

Generally, the older the patient, the longer the problem has been developing, and the more severe it is, the longer it will take.

Many patients notice changes within the first few weeks when visits are most frequent. As the spine starts to correct and stabilise visits become less frequent. In very chronic cases resolution may take months or years.

Where the underlying cause can not be eliminated it may never resolve completely so the goal will be symptom relief and slowing progression whilst keeping independent as long as possible.