Will Chiropractic Treatment Hurt?
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.
Relative Risks of Chiropractic Adjustments
Chiropractic care is generally considered safe when performed by a registered and qualified practitioner, so please check that anyone claiming to provide chiropractic adjustments is registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC).
However, like any medical intervention, chiropractic is not entirely risk-free.
The most common side effects of chiropractic adjustments include temporary soreness, stiffness, and fatigue. These are considered a normal response and evidence that change is occurring.
Serious complications are extremely rare but may include herniated discs, nerve damage, or strokes (which is the same as the risk in the general population).
It’s essential for individuals considering chiropractic care to disclose their complete medical history and consult with a qualified and registered chiropractor to ensure the appropriateness of chiropractic treatment in general or specific techniques for their specific condition.
Comparing Risks: Chiropractic Adjustments vs. Drugs and Surgery
Drugs
Many musculoskeletal conditions are initially treated with pain medications.
While these drugs can provide temporary relief, they come with a range of side effects, including gastrointestinal issues, liver damage, and addiction concerns, especially with opioids.
Prolonged use of certain medications may lead to adverse effects on overall health. In addition, drugs are generally masking the symptoms rather than dealing with the underlying issues.
Surgery
Surgical interventions are often considered when conservative treatments fail.
However, surgeries carry inherent risks, including infections, bleeding, and anaesthesia-related complications.
Additionally, post-surgery recovery can be lengthy, and there’s no guarantee of complete resolution of the issue.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic adjustments offer a non-invasive approach, minimizing the risks associated with surgery and long-term medication use.
While there are potential risks, they are generally rare and can be further minimized through proper screening and communication with a qualified chiropractor.
Request A Callback
If you’re interested in chiropractic but aren’t sure if it’s right for you, we can offer a free chat where one of our experienced chiropractors in Solihull or Sutton Coldfield will listen to you to and let you know if they think chiropractic care could benefit you.



