Are There Risk Factors Associated With Chiropractic Care?

The Risk Factors Involving Neck Manipulations

There are definite risks involved in chiropractic manipulation to the neck.

Based on a survey in Switzerland where 203 practitioners participated, there have been incidences of cerebro-vascular accidents occurring from the procedure, wherein 1 to 3 patients out of every 1 million suffer from a stroke. Further studies, found that 1 out of every 400,000 patients who underwent cervical manipulations suffered from stroke, with death occurring in one out of every 1.5 million. In cervical spine surgery patients, complications occur 3% to 4% of the time, which is very comparable to chiropractic neck manipulation procedures statistics.

Due to it being highly effective and cost-effective, the process is still preferred by many patients. Chiropractics render short term pain relief, and enhance range of motion. It is especially highly effective on back and neck pain, alleviating the problem thoroughly.

What You Should Know About Chiropractics

Chiropractic is an approach wherein the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of different mechanical disorders, are based on the spine. The practice is generally considered as an alternative type of medicine, which is a conclusion that is rejected by most chiropractors.

The spine is manipulated, together with soft tissue and other joints in primary treatments in manual therapy. Bodily dysfunctions may be triggered by interferences with the different points in the body.

The Risk to the Spine

The main body organs included in the approach are the spine and joints. Problems can arise if the spine is mistreated. It is important that you trust only in a practitioner who has been in the field for a long time. In order to avoid having your spine pressed in the wrong manner, it is vital that you maintain the proper position throughout the process. Just like any other medical and alternative treatment, spinal manipulation can have serious complications.

The occurrences are actually quite rare. If the techniques are employed properly, the dangers and risks of chiropractic are minimal.

Regarding Complications

Differing symptoms and side effects can occur from inappropriately applied chiropractic treatments. There are contraindications that should be considered due to some incidences where the patient suffered from rheumatoid arthritis, unstable joints and joint pain.

As Osteoporosis is one of the contraindications, children and the elderly should consult a physician before seeking chiropractic care.

Other frequently associated symptoms that may occur are neurological symptoms, neck pain and severe headaches. 35% to 55% of the patients may experience stiffness and pain. Incorrect spinal manipulations, could permanently disable or even kill a patient. Vertebrobasilar artery stroke can occur in patients younger than 45 years.

X-Rays and CT Scanning may also be utilized by chiropractors for diagnostic purposes.

The risks involving certain diagnostic procedures are equivalent to that of any conventional type of medical treatment.