Are Chiropractors Safe?

If you’ve ever watched a chiropractor's adjustment online, you may have wondered: Are chiropractors safe? Those “cracks” might sound intense, but chiropractic care is a proven, regulated, and often safe approach to treating back, neck, and joint pain — when performed by a licensed professional.

At Moreau Physical Therapy, we’re committed to helping patients understand all their options for pain relief and recovery. Whether you’re asking “is chiropractic safe?” or “when should I see the chiropractor?”, this guide breaks down what you need to know about the safety, science, and benefits of chiropractic care.

Understanding Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care focuses on the spine, joints, and muscles — key components of your body’s movement and balance. Chiropractors use gentle spinal adjustments and manual techniques to realign the body, improve range of motion, and relieve pain.

However, it’s not just about quick fixes. Chiropractic treatment often includes stretching, strengthening exercises, and posture education to prevent future pain.

For even better results, chiropractic care can be combined with Physical Therapy, creating an integrated plan that promotes healing, strength, and mobility.

Are Chiropractors Legitimate Healthcare Providers?

Yes — chiropractors are licensed healthcare professionals. They earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree after years of academic and clinical training.

Here’s what that education involves:

4 years of undergraduate study, typically in biology or kinesiology
4 years at a Council on Chiropractic Education–accredited program
State licensing exams and ongoing continuing education

This extensive training ensures chiropractors are qualified to safely assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal conditions. In all 50 states, chiropractic care is a regulated, legitimate form of healthcare.

Is Chiropractic Care Safe?

Chiropractic care is generally safe when performed by a licensed provider. Most people experience only mild, short-term side effects — such as slight soreness or stiffness — that resolve within 24 hours.

According to the American Chiropractic Association, serious complications are extremely rare.

That said, chiropractic care isn’t recommended for everyone. It may not be suitable for those with:

Severe osteoporosis or bone fragility
Fractures or dislocations
Inflamed or infected joints
Circulatory or neurological conditions

At Moreau Physical Therapy, our Chiropractic team takes a comprehensive, patient-centered approach — reviewing your health history and coordinating with physical therapists to ensure every treatment is safe and effective.

Schedule an Appointment

Do Chiropractic Adjustments Help?

Yes — chiropractic adjustments can help reduce pain and improve mobility. Research supports its benefits, particularly for low back and neck pain.

For example, a 2018 study in JAMA Network Open found that patients receiving chiropractic care:

Reported less pain and disability
Had better function and satisfaction
Needed fewer pain medications

Even Harvard Health Publishing recognizes chiropractic care as a safe, non-opioid option for managing musculoskeletal pain.

When paired with physical therapy and lifestyle modifications, chiropractic adjustments can help restore function, prevent future injury, and improve overall wellness.

Are Chiropractors Safe for Neck Pain?

Chiropractic adjustments for chronic neck pain are generally safe for most people. Licensed chiropractors use gentle mobilization and soft-tissue techniques to ease stiffness, reduce tension, and restore proper alignment.

Serious complications are rare, especially when treatment is customized to your needs. Chiropractors often combine adjustments with targeted exercises and ergonomic advice to manage chronic neck pain and prevent future discomfort.

When Should I See the Chiropractor?

You don’t need to be in severe pain to benefit. See a chiropractor when you notice early signs of discomfort or limited motion.

Common reasons to schedule a visit include:

Back or neck pain that lasts more than a few days
Headaches related to posture or muscle tension
Reduced flexibility or stiffness
Repetitive strain from work or sports

Chiropractic care can also complement your physical therapy plan, ensuring your joints stay aligned and your muscles function properly during recovery.

If you’re unsure which treatment is best, our clinicians can help create a personalized plan that blends chiropractic and physical therapy for optimal results.

Are Chiropractors Safe? The Final Verdict

So, are chiropractors safe? For most people, absolutely. Chiropractic care provides a natural, non-invasive way to relieve pain and improve function — especially when performed by a skilled, licensed professional.

At Moreau Physical Therapy, we take a collaborative approach that prioritizes your safety, comfort, and long-term health. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or managing chronic pain, our chiropractic and physical therapy experts will help you move better and live stronger.

Ready to take the next step? Explore our Chiropractic Services or schedule an appointment today to see how chiropractic care can safely help you feel your best.