Prevention Magazine – Answers w/ Dr. Andrew Weil
The Integrative MD on…
I’ve heard neck adjustments might be linked with stroke. Should I quit my chiropractor?
Perhaps not.
Chiropractic adjustments are low risk for patients without serious health problems. Stroke in association with neck manipulation is rare and primarily involves high pressure, low-speed treatment. Older patients and anyone with a history of heart disease should request low-pressure, high speed techniques that keep the head in a neutral position, like Activator, a method of adjusting using a spring-loaded handheld device. Seek referrals for a trusted practitioner; well-done adjustments can relieve musculoskeletal discomfort and calm irritated nerves. Research suggests greater benefits for chronic pain, while in my own experience chiropractics seems to work better for acute pain. You should see results in 1 to 2 weeks.
Andrew Weil, MD, is founder and director of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine and a clinical professor of medicine at the University of Arizona.