I Hear Neck Adjustments Can Cause Strokes

There have been irresponsible news reports that have frightened and mislead viewers about the relationship between manipulation of the upper neck (a procedure commonly performed by chiropractors) and stroke.

People have had strokes backing their cars out of their driveways, having their hair washed at beauty parlors, while shaving, while sitting on their couch, etc. That doesn't mean any of these things caused the stroke.

A recent study in the February 2008 issue of Spine (the most prestigious journal in spinal care) showed there is no greater likelihood of having a stroke after visiting a chiropractor than there is after visiting a medical doctor. Visits to both MD's and Chiropractors are associated with strokes in that people experiencing some kinds of strokes often feel neck pain or headache that makes them seek a doctor's care. In other words, the stroke causes the doctor visit, not the other way around.

Chiropractic care is VERY safe.