Is Chiropractic Care Safe & Effective?

Let’s Address the Elephant in the Room... Is Chiropractic Safe?


If you're researching Chiropractic care and if it's safe, it's likely you've seeing some concerning videos online, read a post on social media or spoken to a friend or family member that's had care at a dodgy clinic or by an inexperienced practitioner. Some people worry that Chiropractic adjustments, especially to the neck, might cause a stroke or serious injury.

We're here to clear that up all of that with facts, not fear, read on.


The truth is; Chiropractic care is the safest, drug-free and non-invasive therapy for musculoskeletal issues in the world, but only when performed by a registered and experienced Chiropractor, like those at Adjusting to Health in Bonnyrigg and Doonside. When done so, following a proper examination process to rule out any potential risks or red flags, the risk of serious complications with Chiropractic care is virtually non-existent.



Where's The Research?


In fact, a landmark study published in Spine found no evidence that spinal adjustments were associated with stroke more than visiting a GP for the same symptoms (Spine Journal link). The treatment given by western medicine can be life saving, but it is also one of the leading causes of death around the world, iatrogenic illness. A recent study published in a peer reviewed journal found "44,000 Americans die in hospitals each year as a result of preventable medical errors". Chiropractic care saves lives, it doesn't take life away.


It’s important to understand that all healthcare has risks, whether it’s medication, surgery, or manual therapy. We often see that people are quick to accept the risks of pharmaceuticals or medical procedures, but hesitant when it comes to natural healthcare. At Adjusting to Health, we’re proud to offer a conservative, evidence-informed approach that supports the body’s natural healing processes — safely and effectively.


Most side effects from Chiropractic care are only mild and temporary, such as light soreness, similar to what you might feel after a workout.



What About Neck Adjustments?


This is often where the concern about safety comes in about the adjustment, the cervical spine or neck region of the spine. Studies have shown that the incidence of serious complications from neck manipulation is extremely rare. There is a theoretical chance of injury but estimates range from 1 in 100,000 to 5.85 million. To put that in perspective, you're more likely to be injured getting in and out of the shower or catching a bus than you are being adjusted. This indicates that it's virtually impossible to have anything serious go wrong in-fact there's been no confirmed case of any stroke, paralysis or death resultant of an adjustment performed by a registered Chiropractor in Australia at the time of writing this in May of 2025 in recorded history.

At Adjusting to Health, your safety and comfort are our priorities, so we always;

  • Perform a full clinical history and neurological exam
  • Tailor care to your comfort and medical history
  • Use gentle, specific techniques appropriate for each patient



Is Chiropractic Care Effective?


Now let’s talk about what everyone really wants to know,   does it really work?

Chiropractic care has been shown to be effective for a range of Neuromusculoskeletalissues including;

Multiple clinical trials and guidelines from bodies like the National Center for Complementary Health support spinal manipulation as a safe and effective treatment, especially for chronic low back pain.


At Adjusting to Health, we don’t focus on pain relief. Our primary goal is to optimize and enhance nervous system function, pain relief just happens as a side effect. When we restore good spinal structure and nervous system function we usually don't have any pain.

Our goal is to;

  • Help restore proper movement and nervous system function
  • Reduce inflammation and tension
  • Improve posture, sleep, energy and mental clarity



What Makes Our Approach Safer and More Effective?


We’re not your average “walk-in, walk-out” Chiropractors.

At our Bonnyrigg and Doonside clinics, we’re trusted by thousands of patients because:

  • We assess thoroughly before adjusting (including X-ray or CT/MRI imaging & neurological testing)
  • We track your results with progress checks and re-exams
  • We communicate with your GP when needed to ensure care is aligned
  • We focus on functional improvements, not just symptom relief


Many of our patients come to us after trying everything else; physiotherapy, remedial massage, spinal surgery or acupuncture. Chiropractic care isn't magic, but it has a great success rate because it gets to the root of what is commonly the underlying and often overlooked issue; spinal and nervous system dysfunction.



Still Have Questions About Chiropractic Safety?


If you’ve been putting off care because you’re worried, you’re not alone. But it’s time to base your health decisions on evidence, not outdated myths. Come in, meet the team, and we’ll walk you through everything. You can be at ease knowing you're coming to the most highly rated Chiropractors in town. No pressure, no surprises, just honest, expert and professional care at an award winning practice.


👉 Book your first appointment today or read what our Bonnyrigg and Doonside patients say about us.


Did you know; Chiropractic is the safest form of healthcare in the world.