The Doctor of Chiropractic evaluates the patient using standard examination and testing procedures. A chiropractic adjustment involves the application of a quick, precise force directed over a very short distance to a specific vertebra or bone. There are a number of different techniques that may be used to deliver the adjustment, some of which utilize specially designed equipment. Adjustments are usually performed by hand but may also be performed by hand-guided instruments. In addition to adjustments, other treatments used by chiropractors include physical therapy modalities (heat, ice, ultrasound, and soft-tissue manipulation), nutritional recommendations and rehabilitative procedures.
Chiropractic treatments are one of the safest interventions available to the public demonstrated through various clinical trials and indirectly reflected by the low malpractice insurance paid by chiropractors. While there are risks involved with treatment, theses are seldom great enough to contraindicate care. Referral for further diagnosis or management to a medical physician or other health care provider will be suggested based on history and examination findings.
Listed below are summaries of both common and rare side-effects/complications associated with chiropractic care:
Common
• Reactions most commonly reported are local soreness/discomfort (53%), headaches (12%), tiredness (11%), radiating discomfort (10%), dizziness, the vast majority of which resolve within 48 hours
Rare
• Fractures or joint injuries in isolated cases with underlying physical defects, deformities, or pathologies
• Physiotherapy burns due to some therapies
• Disc herniations
• Cauda Equina Syndrome (1 case per 100 million adjustments)
• Compromise of the vertebrobasilar artery (i.e. stroke) (range: 1 case per 400,000 to 1 million cervical spine adjustments [manipulations]). This associated risk is also found with consulting a medical doctor for patients under the age of 45 and is higher for those older than 45 when seeing a medical doctor. Please indicate to your doctor if you have headache or neck pain that is the worst you have ever felt.
I understand that there are beneficial effects associated with these treatment procedures including decreased pain, improved mobility and function, and reduced muscle spasm. I also understand that my condition may worsen and referral may be necessary if a course of chiropractic care does not help improve my condition. The patient examination process includes important tests that require movement, exertion, balance control and may result in worsening of symptoms, muscle spasm, and falling. I accept these risks and agree that I will provide correct answers to information and will notify Healing Touch Chiropractic if there has been any change in any of my answers and information.
Reasonable alternatives to these procedures have been explained to me including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, possible surgery, and non-treatment. Listed below are summaries of concern with the associated alternative procedures.
• Long-term use or overuse of medication carries some risk of dependency with the use of pain medication the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding among other risks.
• Surgical risks may include unsuccessful outcome, complications such as infection, pain, reactions to anesthesia, and prolonged recovery.
• Potential risks if refusing or neglecting care may result in increased pain, restricted motion, increased inflammation, and worsening of my condition.
Neck and back pain generally improve in time; however, reoccurrence is common. Remaining active and positive improve your chances of recovery.