The Truth About Neck Adjustments And Stroke: Cause Or Coincidence?

Neck pain and headaches are common complaints that many people experience, and for many, chiropractic care offers a safe and effective treatment option. One of the most common procedures used by chiropractors to treat neck pain is cervical spine manipulation, or neck adjustments. This precise procedure works to improve joint mobility in the neck, reduce muscle spasms, alleviate pressure, and enhance overall range of motion. For many patients, this leads to a significant reduction in pain, stiffness, and an improved ability to move their neck. However, the connection between neck adjustments and stroke has garnered attention in the media, leading some to question the safety of this popular treatment.

The Rare Connection Between Neck Adjustments and Stroke

While neck adjustments are generally considered safe, some high-profile incidents have raised concerns about a possible link between chiropractic care and stroke. Specifically, some reports suggest that a rare injury to one of the arteries in the neck may be triggered by neck manipulation, potentially leading to a stroke. This rare occurrence, called vertebrobasilar artery (VBA) stroke, has prompted public concern and debate.

However, a comprehensive study published in the February 2008 edition of Spine sheds light on this issue. The study analyzed nine years’ worth of data and concluded that vertebrobasilar artery stroke is an extremely rare event. The research revealed that patients are no more likely to experience a stroke following chiropractic neck treatment than they are after visiting a family doctor’s office.

An Association, Not a Cause

The findings of the study suggest that the association between chiropractic manipulation and VBA stroke is most likely coincidental. According to the study, the majority of patients who experience a stroke following chiropractic care may have already been in the early stages of a vertebral artery dissection (VAD) – a condition that occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the brain become torn or injured. These patients may have sought chiropractic care for seemingly simple neck pain or a headache, but the stroke occurred due to the pre-existing arterial injury, not the chiropractic treatment itself.

In fact, research indicates that vertebral artery dissection can occur spontaneously or due to everyday activities, such as turning the head while driving, swimming, or even getting a shampoo at the hair salon. This means that the neck manipulation provided by a chiropractor was not the cause of the injury, but rather coincided with it.

The overall incidence of vertebral artery dissection leading to a stroke is extremely rare, with studies showing that it occurs at a rate of about 1 in 5.85 million chiropractic office visits. This highlights the rarity of the event and supports the notion that chiropractic care does not pose a significant risk when performed by a qualified professional.

The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis

When seeking care for neck pain or headaches, it is essential to be specific about your symptoms and medical history. Chiropractors, like other healthcare providers, rely on accurate diagnoses to determine the most appropriate course of treatment. If you have any concerns or a history of vascular issues, it’s important to discuss them with your chiropractor before starting treatment. Chiropractors are trained to screen for risk factors and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Ongoing Research and Safety Protocols

Chiropractic researchers continue to study the benefits and risks associated with spinal adjustments, with particular focus on neck care. The current body of evidence demonstrates that chiropractic adjustments carry an extremely small risk, especially when performed by licensed and experienced professionals. Chiropractors are committed to providing care that is safe, effective, and tailored to the individual needs of each patient.

At Cole Pain Therapy Group, we take patient safety very seriously and ensure that all necessary screenings are conducted before any treatment is performed. We work closely with our patients to deliver the most effective care while minimizing any risks.

Chiropractic Care and Stroke

The link between chiropractic neck adjustments and stroke is minimal and largely misunderstood. While the media may present isolated incidents, scientific research consistently shows that chiropractic care is a safe treatment for most neck pain and headaches. The occurrence of vertebrobasilar artery stroke is extremely rare, and when it does happen, it is often due to pre-existing artery conditions unrelated to chiropractic care. By understanding the facts and consulting with a skilled chiropractor, patients can feel confident in their treatment choices.

References:
1. Cassidy D, et al. Risk of vertebrobasilar stroke and chiropractic care. Spine 2008;33(4S):S176–S183.
2. Haldeman S, et al. Arterial dissection following cervical manipulation: a chiropractic experience. Can Med Assoc J 2001;165(7):905-06.

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Richard L. Cole, DC, DACNB, DAIPM, FIACN, FICC
Jeffrey D. Luebbe, DC, CCRD, CCSP
W. Steven Vollmer, DC, DAAPM
Bradford J. Cole, DC, MS, CSCS
J. Colby Poston, DC
Daniel H. Smith, DC
2845 Summer Oaks Dr., Memphis, TN 38134
(901) 377-2340

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