Is Chiropractic Care Safe?

The Truth About Chiropractic Safety for Kids, Pregnant Women, and Everyday Patients

When people search online for chiropractic care, one of the most common questions is: “Is it safe?” The short answer: yes, chiropractic care is widely recognized as safe when performed by a licensed chiropractor. But let’s break down what research says about safety for children, pregnant women, and the general population.

Is Chiropractic Safe for Adults?

For most adults, chiropractic care is a safe, non-invasive option for managing back pain, headaches, sciatica, and more. Common side effects may include temporary soreness, but serious complications are extremely rare.

The World Federation of Chiropractic has aligned with the World Health Organization’s Global Patient Safety Action Plan to ensure chiropractors worldwide prioritize safety, informed consent, and collaboration with other healthcare providers.

Is Chiropractic Safe for Children?

Many parents wonder if chiropractic care is safe for kids. Studies show that children make up 8–15% of all chiropractic visits, often for wellness care, ear infections, digestive concerns, ADHD, headaches, or musculoskeletal issues.

Pediatric adjustments use gentle, low-force techniques, not the same as adult spinal manipulations.
A review of 31 studies found that serious adverse events are rare and no deaths have been reported.
Most side effects are mild and temporary, like fussiness or soreness.

Bottom line: Chiropractic care is considered safe for children when performed by a licensed chiropractor who adapts techniques to the child’s size and needs.

Is Chiropractic Safe During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy brings unique challenges, especially back and pelvic pain, which affects up to 90% of pregnant women. Chiropractic care can help with comfort and mobility—and studies show it’s safe.

Adverse events are rare during pregnancy and postpartum.
Most reported side effects are minor and short-lived, like temporary soreness.
Research found no negative effects on labor, delivery, or newborn health.

This makes chiropractic a safe, drug-free choice for expecting mothers seeking relief.

The Bottom Line on Chiropractic Safety

Chiropractic care is one of the safest forms of healthcare for adults, children, and pregnant women when provided by a trained professional. While mild soreness is possible, serious complications are extremely rare.

At ChiroJunky ATL, patient safety is our top priority. Every adjustment is customized to your needs, whether you’re a new parent, an athlete, or someone just looking to feel your best.

If you’ve been hesitant about trying chiropractic because of safety concerns, know that you’re in good hands.

Ready to experience safe, gentle chiropractic care?
Book your appointment at ChiroJunky ATL today.

Resources

Misra, S. M., Jaber, O., & Long, C. (2024). Chiropractic care in children: A review of evidence and safety. Clinical Pediatrics, 64(7), 1028–1032. https://doi.org/10.1177/00099228241305202
Weis, C. A., Stuber, K., Murnaghan, K., & Wynd, S. (2021). Adverse events from spinal manipulations in the pregnant and postpartum periods: A systematic review and update. Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 65(1), 32–49.
Coleman, B. C., Rubinstein, S. M., Salsbury, S. A., Swain, M., Brown, R., & Pohlman, K. A. (2024). The World Federation of Chiropractic Global Patient Safety Task Force: A call to action. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 32(15). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12998-024-00536-1