Chiropractic Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, July 2009.
Answers to questions about chiropractic
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- How much training do chiropractors have before practising?
- Can chiropractic be used to treat whiplash?
- Is spinal manipulation safe?
How much training do chiropractors have before practising?
All UK chiropractors must undergo at least four years training at an institution accredited by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC). After this, they must register with the GCC before they are legally allowed to practise.
Explanation
It's important that you ensure that your chiropractor is fully trained and qualified. Don't agree to any chiropractic procedure unless your chiropractor has fully explained it and discussed all the risks and complications involved. Your chiropractor should also examine you thoroughly and obtain your full consent before starting any chiropractic care.
Sources
- Simon C, Everitt H, Kendrick T. Oxford handbook of general practice. 2nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2005:152
- Code of practice and standard of proficiency. General Chiropractic Council. www.gcc-uk.org, accessed 3 February 2009
- What can I expect when I see a chiropractor? General Chiropractic Council. www.gcc-uk.org, accessed 3 February 2009
Can chiropractic be used to treat whiplash?
Chiropractic is often used to treat whiplash. However, not enough research has been done to show whether or not it's really effective for treating this condition.
Explanation
Whiplash injuries are caused when your neck is over-extended, often as a result of a sudden impact forcing your neck forwards. It's a common injury and often occurs as a result of rear-end car crashes. However, whiplash can also be caused by having a fall or any other sudden movement, especially if it's repetitive.
Whiplash injuries damage the muscles, ligaments, nerves and bones in your neck, forcing them closer together. This can lead to pain and stiffness. There are different degrees of whiplash injuries and the most severe forms can lead to more serious complications.
It's important to rest your neck for a short time immediately after an injury to it to allow any inflammation to go down. If you have chiropractic treatment for whiplash, your chiropractor will usually start by making specific adjustments to your neck. These aim to reduce pain and restore movement to your neck. Your chiropractor may also use a variety of other techniques and exercises to help strengthen the muscles in your neck.
It's important to remember that there isn't enough evidence to show if chiropractic is effective for treating whiplash injuries.
Sources
- Whiplash. British Chiropractic Association. www.chiropractic-uk.co.uk, accessed 3 February 2009
- Ernst E, Pittler MH, Wider B, Boddy K. Oxford handbook of complementary medicine. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2008
- Oxford handbook of clinical specialties. 7th ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2007
Is spinal manipulation safe?
Chiropractors insist that spinal manipulation is extremely safe. However, there is evidence to suggest it can be harmful when used to treat certain conditions.
Explanation
There is evidence to show that about half of all people who have spinal manipulation get side-effects afterwards, most commonly headaches and tiredness. These are usually mild and don't last long. However, spinal manipulation carried out on the neck has led to more serious complications in some people, including stroke and severe damage to arteries.
Chiropractors also use spinal manipulation to treat conditions that aren't related to the spine, including headaches and migraines. However, there isn't enough evidence to show whether chiropractic is effective for treating such conditions and it may even be harmful.
Sources
- Ernst E. Chiropractic: a critical evaluation. J Pain Symptom Manage 2008; 5:544-62
- Ernst E, Pittler MH, Wider B, Boddy K. Oxford handbook of complementary medicine. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2008
Related topics
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: July 2009
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