Download in PDF format

This PEF is the second in a series that presents common complementary and alternative treatments older adults may wish to explore.

What is spinal manipulation?

Spinal manipulation is an "adjustment" or "push" to a person's back or neck performed by a chiropractor to gently put the spinal bones back in their proper place. As we age, the muscles and ligaments that keep the neck and back healthy and strong begin to weaken, causing stress to the bones of the spine and in some cases, allowing them to "slip" out of place. Spinal manipulation is most often used to treat lower back pain as well as neck pain and headaches. Chiropractors also routinely use spinal manipulation to treat patients with other problems, such as arm or leg pain.

Can spinal manipulation do any harm?

If you are otherwise healthy, the risks of complications are very low; however, medical conditions such as severe osteoporosis, stroke, cancer, certain infections or easily broken bones may make spinal manipulation more risky than usual. You should always consult your primary care provider before seeing a chiropractor to avoid complications.

How common is chiropractic care?

Chiropractic care is the largest form of alternative health care practiced in the United States today, and the third largest healthcare profession in the Western world, behind only medicine and dentistry. Approximately one third of the average chiropractic practice is made up of individuals who are over 50. Since 1974, chiropractors have been licensed to practice in all 50 states and currently, approximately 300 hospitals across the country include chiropractic care. This trend is likely to increase, since President Bush signed a law in 2002 that states there must be a chiropractor on staff in at least one designated Veterans Administration (VA) hospital or facility in every geographic area around the country.

When should I consider spinal manipulation treatments?

If you are suffering from pain in your neck, arm, leg, or head and treatment with medicine or physical therapy has not helped, you may wish to discuss seeing a chiropractor with your healthcare provider. Again, you should make sure there are no reasons why you should not see a chiropractor.

How do I find a chiropractor?

Once you consult with your primary health provider and he or she agrees that spinal manipulation is the right course of treatment for you he or she may be able to recommend a chiropractor in your area. You should also check with family and friends for a recommendation. You should avoid chiropractors promote "lifetime care." If you do not feel better after a month of treatment, then you should probably stop your treatments. Also, avoid chiropractors who want payment in advance. Also, make sure the chiropractor you choose does spinal manipulation. Many chiropractors do not make "adjustments" and instead perform physical therapy and sell lots of vitamins, none of which addresses your pain.

What type of training do chiropractors have?

Chiropractors undergo extensive training consisting of six years of college and 4,200 hours of professional study. Before graduating, a chiropractor must also perform at least 900 hours of clinical practice. A chiropractor must also pass national and state board exams before he or she will be able to begin a professional practice.

Does insurance pay for spinal manipulation?

Most insurance companies do pay for chiropractic care and Medicare approves 12 visits per year. Certain insurance plans require you to obtain a referral from your primary care provider first. Before scheduling an appointment, you should check with your insurance company to find out if you are covered.

Where can I go for more information about spinal manipulation and chiropractic health care?

The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) is the largest professional organization in the chiropractic profession:

The ACA may be reached at:
1701 Clarendon Blvd.
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (703) 276-8800
Web site: www.amerchiro.org.

For more information you can also contact:

The International Chiropractors Association (ICA)
1110 Glebe Road, Suite 1000
Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (703) 528-5000
Website: www.chiropractic.org.

Each state has at least one professional chiropractic association. Please ask your care provider for the contact information for your state's associations.

Provide feedback on this PEF