Chiropractic Care and Stroke

By John V. DeMaio, DC, CCN

DeMaio Family Chiropractic

. https://www.demaiochiro.com/

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Chiropractic Care and Stroke

Most people who are considering having neck treatment wonder whether adjustments are safe, and whether there is a possibility of stroke. The most recent research confirms that neck adjustments are a safe procedure, if they are performed by a licensed doctor of chiropractic. Neck adjusting requires a great deal of skill and knowledge, and does not require a lot of strength. It is possible to experience temporary discomfort or stiffness in their initial treatment; however, most people experience immediate relief.

The source of public concern in this regard is a condition known as vertebral artery syndrome (VAS), which occurs when sudden head movements disrupt the blood flow in the vertebral artery, possibly leading to stroke. According to the 1996 RAND report, “The Appropriateness of Manipulation and Mobilization of the Cervical Spine,” approximately only one out of every one million chiropractic patients experiences VAS or more recent studies are as high as one in 5.5 million. To put it another way, you are five times more likely to get hit by lightning than to suffer VAS at the hands of a chiropractor.

Strokes can occur from ordinary neck movements such as cradling a phone between your ear and your shoulder for a prolonged period of time, painting a ceiling, or turning your head while driving. In fact, there are more reported cases of VAS from people having their hair washed at the hairdresser than from chiropractic treatments. A stroke can occur with any ordinary neck movement and can occur unexpectedly.

Chiropractic adjustments or manipulations are safer than many everyday activities and are far safer than common over-the-counter painkillers and other prescribed medications.

There are many rumors surrounding chiropractic treatments, simply due to the lack of understanding and knowledge about the practice of chiropractic. You must take it upon yourself to discover the truth. Call your local chiropractor or contact the ACA or ICA.

Your chiropractor will take a close look at your medical history; perform a complete medical examination including diagnostic screening to see if you may be at risk. Your chiropractor will determine if it is safe for you to have this procedure.

Doctors of chiropractic are highly trained and educated in the use of the adjustment, which is a very specific application of force to the spinal bones. So see your chiropractor on a regular basis, you will be glad you did.