Is Chiropractic Safe? Let’s Talk About the Evidence

You’ve probably seen both passionate endorsements and alarming warnings about chiropractic. When it comes to your health, confusion isn’t helpful. At The Wellness Place in Bassendean, we believe you deserve straight answers about chiropractic safety.

Myth 1: “Chiropractors aren’t real doctors”

In Australia, chiropractors complete a minimum five-year university degree and are registered with AHPRA — the same body that regulates medical practitioners. They meet the same rigorous standards.

Myth 2: “Neck adjustments cause strokes”

The landmark Cassidy et al. study (2008, Spine) examined over 800 stroke cases and found no evidence of excess stroke risk from chiropractic care compared to GP visits. The association between chiropractic and stroke was the same as GP visits — suggesting the underlying symptoms drove people to seek care, not that the care caused the stroke. Your risk is roughly 1 in 2 million to 1 in 5 million adjustments.

Myth 3: “Once you start, you have to keep going”

No ethical chiropractor will pressure you into long-term commitments. At TWP, we assess, treat, and review. Ongoing care is always your choice.

Myth 4: “Chiropractic is dangerous”

Malpractice premiums for chiropractors are 10 times lower than medical doctors — because claims data backs the safety record. Minor soreness after an adjustment is common (30-60% of patients) and resolves within 24 hours. Serious complications are exceptionally rare.

The Bottom Line

Chiropractic is one of the most thoroughly researched and safest non-invasive treatment options available. Australian training standards are world-class and serious adverse events are vanishingly rare.

Have questions? Call (08) 9379 3838 or visit thewellnessplace.com.au. 9 Old Perth Road, Bassendean.