Spine Safety
Is Neck Cracking Safe?
Many patients are treated with relief care rather than corrective care by professionals who work with the spine. In this approach, the spine is mobilized in a non-specific manner to improve movement and temporarily reduce tension. Techniques such as twisting, jerking, bending, and cracking are often used. Although built-up tension may be momentarily released, the exact origin from which pain and stiffness radiate is not corrected. However, it should be noted that not all chiropractors practice in this way.
Concerns are often raised regarding the safety of neck adjustments. This is largely because aggressive “twist and crack” methods are commonly associated with such procedures, and many have heard stories of painful or adverse reactions. Some individuals have even been advised by their doctors to avoid neck adjustments entirely. It must be understood, however, that different types of cervical (neck) care exist. Most healthcare professionals are familiar only with conventional manipulation techniques and may have no experience working with qualified Upper Cervical Doctors. Therefore, understanding the various treatment options available is essential for making informed health decisions.
Neck adjustments should be performed only when absolutely necessary and exclusively by a trained Upper Cervical Doctor. Upper Cervical Care is recognized as a proven and effective alternative to traditional neck cracking. Through this specialized method, neck pain and tension can be relieved without placing the delicate structures of the neck at risk of injury.
Upper Cervical Care Published Safety Findings
The Upper Cervical Safety Study has demonstrated that upper cervical specific chiropractic care is a safe and effective approach associated with a high level of patient satisfaction. In this large prospective study conducted by Dr. Kirk Eriksen and Dr. Bo Rochester, symptomatic reactions, clinical outcomes, and patient satisfaction were evaluated. Consecutive new patients from the offices of 83 chiropractors were included in the research. A total of 1,090 patients completed the study, during which 4,920 office visits were recorded and 2,653 upper cervical adjustments were administered over a period of seventeen days. The findings confirmed that upper cervical chiropractic care can be delivered safely and with positive outcomes for patients.
- The 83 chiropractors administered >5 million career upper cervical adjustments without one reported incidence of serious adverse effects. Mild symptomatic reactions of less than 24 hour duration occurred in only 5% of adjustments.
- Outcome assessments were significantly improved for neck pain and disability, headache, mid-back pain in less than three weeks of care.
- 91% patient satisfaction. -Safety Study
How is Upper Cervical Care Different?
Image-guided – upper cervical corrective care is based on detailed measurements. Not one adjustment is the same, because not one spine is the same. Differences between individuals are accommodated with personally tailored upper cervical adjustments. Structural imaging provides an accurate depiction of spinal structures. “At Clear Chiropractic, we take a full set of 3D images. With five images, all capturing different angles, we can see exactly how each joint angle fits together. Every adjustment is tailored to a person’s genetics and anatomy so that it can be as gentle and specific as possible.” -Dr. Bekki Ellis
Non-manipulative – the technique is so precise, it involves no twisting, cracking, bending, popping, jerking or pain. The joints are not forcefully jarred, which is why there is no crack or pop sound. Dr. Bell and Dr. Ellis use specialized adjusting tables to perform the adjustment from a patient’s personalized measurements and treatment plan.
Neutral position An upper cervical adjustment is performed with a patient lying comfortably on their side, and their spine in its neutral and natural orientation. This allows the doctor to improve the stability of the cervical spine rather than interfere with it– making this approach as safe as possible. Many patients report that the experience is very easy and comfortable. It is the least invasive, most gentle and exact technique available to date.
- Growth
- Improved grades, posture and sleep
- Better athletic performance and fewer sports injuries
- Missing less school
- Reduction in behavior problems or irritability
- Improved interpersonal relationships with friends, family and teachers
- Reducing or eliminating medication
- Reduced incidence of colds, ear infections and illness
- Fewer allergies
- Overall HAPPINESS