Chiropractic Care: Essential Tips, Benefits, and Risks to Know Before Your First Visit

Nearly 62 million adults in the United States visited a chiropractor within the last five years, with around 35.5 million seeking care in just the past 12 months, according to data from a recent survey. As chiropractic treatment gains popularity for its potential to alleviate musculoskeletal discomfort, health experts continue to underscore the importance of understanding both its benefits and limitations, especially in cases where underlying, more serious conditions could be at play.

One key distinction between chiropractors and spine specialists lies in their background and training. Spine doctors, who are medical doctors, typically complete medical school and rigorous residency programs focused on the intricate structures of the spine and nervous system. Their clinical decision-making is heavily rooted in scientific research and evidence-based practice. In contrast, chiropractors earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree and are trained to diagnose and manage musculoskeletal issues, primarily using manual adjustments and less invasive techniques.

Chiropractor Tori Hartline emphasized that chiropractic care aims to restore the body’s natural movement and function. "When your spine is out of alignment, it puts unnecessary pressure on muscles, causing them to tighten up," she explained. Everyday factors such as prolonged sitting, awkward sleeping positions, or repetitive movements can disrupt spinal alignment, potentially leading to pain or long-term injury if left unaddressed. The most prominent benefits reported by patients include reduced tension, decreased inflammation, and relief from stress.

However, experts warn that not all back pain or discomfort should be treated solely through chiropractic adjustments. Orthopedic spine surgeon Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo noted that for mild, musculoskeletal-specific discomfort, chiropractic care may indeed be an effective option. But for symptoms such as radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness, particularly when these sensations travel down the arms or legs, he strongly recommends consulting a specialist. Such symptoms can indicate nerve involvement or other underlying issues that might require more advanced intervention.

"Sometimes you may have underlying diagnoses without knowing it… you see a chiropractor, and if you have a setback, you won’t know until afterwards," Dr. Okubadejo cautioned. If the underlying condition goes unrecognized, certain manipulations could worsen a patient’s situation or even result in a spinal cord injury. Therefore, a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach incorporating both chiropractic care and medical evaluation is considered safest, especially for persistent or severe symptoms.

Choosing the right chiropractor is another crucial step for potential patients. Experts recommend evaluating a practitioner’s certifications, specialties, and approach to care to ensure a good fit. "Your comfort should always be part of the conversation," said Hartline, noting that there are gentle chiropractic techniques available for those uncomfortable with traditional manual adjustments. Transparency is also essential: a reliable chiropractor will explain their findings, show imaging results when appropriate, and create a clear treatment plan. Conversely, lack of clarity regarding diagnoses or reluctance to order diagnostic tests should be considered a red flag.

Ultimately, both chiropractors and spine specialists play important roles in managing back and musculoskeletal health. The consensus among experts is that chiropractic care can be valuable for addressing mild to moderate pain related to musculoskeletal alignment, while medical evaluation becomes critical when symptoms suggest nerve involvement or other complex conditions. Patients are encouraged to stay informed, communicate openly with their healthcare providers, and seek multidisciplinary opinions when necessary, ensuring the safest and most effective outcome for their spinal health.