Chiropractic and Strokes: Separating Fact from Fiction

Have you ever heard someone say that getting a chiropractic adjustment can lead to a stroke? It’s a common fear, but the truth is that this connection is largely based on misinformation and misunderstandings about how the body works.

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First, let’s start by defining what a stroke is. A stroke is a medical emergency in which blood flow to the brain is disrupted, leading to brain damage or death. There are two types of strokes: ischemic, which is caused by a blocked blood vessel, and hemorrhagic, which is caused by a blood vessel bursting.

Now, let’s talk about chiropractic care. Chiropractic is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the treatment and diagnosis of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. One of the most common procedures performed by chiropractors is a spinal adjustment, also known as a manipulation. During this procedure, the chiropractor uses their hands to apply controlled force to a joint of the spine, which helps to relieve pain and improve functionality.

So, what’s the connection between chiropractic care and strokes? In rare cases, people have reported having a stroke after receiving a chiropractic adjustment. However, it’s important to note that the vast majority of these cases have involved individuals who already had underlying health…