Is there any science behind chiropractic adjustments?
Chiropractic care has been around for more than a century, but people still ask: “Is there real science behind it?” That’s a fair question! With so much information (and misinformation) online, it’s easy to get confused.
Let’s look at what the evidence really says about chiropractic adjustments—the science, the safety, and why so many patients choose a Calgary chiropractor to support their health.
Over 4.5 million Canadians consult a chiropractor every year—about one in six of us seeking help to move better and feel better. That’s healthcare happening every day, in communities across the country. Whether it’s easing back pain or boosting mobility, chiropractic adjustment isn’t magic—it’s muscle, spine, and joint care grounded in evidence.
Let’s break down what makes it work, why it’s safe, and how seeing a trusted Calgary chiropractor (or finding a “chiropractor near me”) could be your next smart move.
Understanding the Chiropractic Adjustment
A chiropractic adjustment—also called spinal manipulation—is more than just a “back crack.” It’s a precise, controlled force applied to a joint with the goal of improving motion and overall function. Sometimes this is done by hand, other times with a small instrument, depending on what your body needs.
The purpose is simple: reduce pain, restore mobility, and help your nervous system function more efficiently. A chiropractor Calgary residents trust will take the time to assess your spine and nervous system before making any corrections.
For patients searching “chiropractor near me,” it’s reassuring to know that these adjustments are tailored to you—not a one-size-fits-all approach.
What Is a Chiropractic Adjustment?
During an adjustment, you’ll usually lie on a special chiropractic table designed to position the body comfortably. The chiropractor then applies a controlled, targeted movement to a spinal joint or surrounding area. These adjustments are often quick and specific—not the twisting and wrenching that some people imagine.
What’s really happening? The adjustment helps restore proper alignment, reduce joint restrictions, and decrease stress on the nervous system. When nerves can communicate freely with the body, muscles relax, inflammation decreases, and movement becomes easier. Many patients notice improvements not only in pain relief but also in posture, flexibility, and even energy levels!
Okay, okay, but are chiropractic adjustments safe?
At Axiom Chiropractic, our Calgary chiropractor focuses on using gentle, modern methods that keep patient comfort at the forefront. You’ll always know what’s happening and why—it’s part of our commitment to safe, effective care.
What the Evidence Says About Safety
Safety is one of the first concerns people raise when they’re considering chiropractic care. The good news? Research consistently shows that spinal adjustments are safe when performed by licensed professionals.
Most side effects are mild—things like temporary soreness, stiffness, or mild fatigue after a session. These typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours.
A chiropractor Calgary patients visit for care will also screen for any red flags before adjusting. This ensures that every treatment is safe and appropriate for your unique health situation.
If you’ve been hesitant to type “chiropractor near me” into Google because of safety concerns, the science is clear: serious complications are exceedingly rare.
Common Side Effects
Like starting a new exercise routine, your body may feel a little sore after an adjustment. This is normal! The muscles and joints are adapting to a healthier alignment and movement pattern. Think of it as your body saying, “Hey, something’s changing here.”
Common, short-term effects include:
Mild soreness or stiffness
Temporary fatigue
A slight headache
These usually disappear in a day or two, leaving you with improved mobility and less pain. Most patients actually report that they feel lighter, looser, and more comfortable after treatment.
Rare Complications
Yes, there are rare risks with chiropractic care, just as there are with any healthcare treatment. Complications like herniated discs, cauda equina syndrome, or even stroke have been reported, but they occur at incredibly low rates.
One study estimated the risk of serious complication at about 1 in 100 million adjustments.
To put that into perspective—that’s far less likely than being struck by lightning.
A Calgary chiropractor who is properly trained will always take steps to minimize risks. They’ll ask detailed questions about your health history, perform careful exams, and explain every option before beginning treatment.
Informed consent and professional expertise make all the difference.
Scientific Support for Chiropractic Care
So, is chiropractic supported by science? The answer is yes. Decades of research show that chiropractic adjustments are effective in treating musculoskeletal problems, especially back pain, neck pain, and mobility issues.
Yes, there is science behind chiropractic adjustments, particularly in the areas of biomechanics, neurology, and pain management. While the field has evolved from its initial, sometimes pseudoscientific, foundations, modern chiropractic care has incorporated scientific principles and research findings.
Studies also confirm that chiropractic does not increase the risk of stroke—debunking one of the most common myths.
When combined with other approaches like exercise, physiotherapy, or medication (when necessary), chiropractic care often helps patients achieve faster and longer-lasting results.
That’s why more and more people searching for a “chiropractor near me” are choosing evidence-based clinics like Axiom Chiropractic.
Evidence-Based Practice
Large-scale studies reviewing millions of patient records have shown no connection between chiropractic adjustments and stroke. What they did find is that patients often visited their chiropractor or family doctor already experiencing early stroke symptoms, like neck pain or headache. In other words, the visit didn’t cause the problem—it was a coincidence.
Evidence also supports chiropractic adjustments for:
Improving mobility in stiff joints
Reducing chronic back and neck pain
Supporting posture and overall spinal health
Enhancing function of the nervous system
A Calgary chiropractor who uses evidence-based practices in chiropractic care will integrate these findings into your care plan. That means no gimmicks, no guesswork—just treatments rooted in science and tailored to your health goals.
Addressing the Pseudoscience Myth
Some people still label chiropractic as “pseudoscience,” but this is outdated thinking. The reality is that chiropractic care has a strong foundation in research when it comes to musculoskeletal health.
The adjustments themselves are well-studied, safe, and effective for many common conditions.
Where misconceptions arise is when chiropractic is misrepresented as a cure-all. At Axiom, we don’t claim to “fix everything.” Instead, we focus on what the evidence supports: helping patients move better, feel better, and live with less pain.
The bottom line is that chiropractic care is not placebo. A chiropractor Calgary patients can trust will always be upfront about what chiropractic can and can’t do. That’s what makes the difference between myth and reality.
Why Professional Training Matters
One of the biggest keys to safe, effective chiropractic care is professional training. Licensed chiropractors go through years of education, clinical training, and ongoing certifications. This ensures they understand anatomy, biomechanics, and how to deliver adjustments safely.
When you search for a “chiropractor near me,” you’re not just looking for convenience—you’re looking for trust. At Axiom Chiropractic, every patient receives care that’s based on training, experience, and a commitment to health and safety. That’s why so many people in Calgary turn to us for relief.
The Role of Licensed Chiropractors
Licensed chiropractors are trained to:
Perform thorough examinations before treatment
Recognize when adjustments are appropriate—and when they’re not
Use a variety of techniques, including low-force options for patients who prefer gentler care
Provide personalized treatment plans, not cookie-cutter routines
This is especially important because chiropractic care isn’t just about “cracking backs.” It’s about restoring balance in the body and supporting long-term health. A Calgary chiropractor who values ongoing education and patient safety is your best ally in achieving real, lasting results.
What is actually happening when someone gets a chiropractic adjustment? Is there science behind the physiological and pain modulating effects? This video breaks down this complex topic to help you understand why chiropractic care holds many benefits and how to get the most from seeing your chiropractor.
