So is there truly zero risk?

We won’t claim “zero risk” — no medical or healthcare intervention is risk-free, and we think honest framing matters more than reassurance. What the evidence does show is that the widely-feared causal link between neck adjustments and stroke is not well supported, and that major adverse events from spinal manipulation overall are rare.

Our full “Is Chiropractic Safe?” page covers the adverse event rates from recent systematic reviews in more detail, including how we screen for risk factors before any adjustment.

How does Kings Park Chiropractic manage this risk?

Before any adjustment, Dr. Brian takes a thorough case history and screens for vascular risk factors and red flags — including unexplained neurological symptoms, sudden severe headache, recent trauma, osteoporosis, and known vascular conditions. If anything of concern comes up, treatment is adapted or you may be referred for further assessment before any manipulation is performed.

Technique is also adapted to the individual. Where a more cautious approach is appropriate, Dr. Brian can use instrument-assisted or soft-tissue techniques instead of manual high-velocity manipulation. Anyone who prefers to avoid high-velocity techniques can discuss alternatives at their initial consultation.

What should I tell Dr. Brian before my first adjustment?

Let him know about any history of stroke or TIA (mini-stroke), blood thinning medication, osteoporosis, recent neck trauma or surgery, unexplained dizziness, or pregnancy. This informed-consent conversation is a normal part of every new patient assessment and helps tailor your care safely.

Why does this myth persist if the evidence doesn’t support it?

Cervical artery dissection is genuinely frightening, and because some patients happen to be seeing a chiropractor for neck pain or headache around the time of a stroke, an association can look like causation even when the research doesn’t support it. Media coverage of individual cases can also amplify the perception of risk well beyond what large-scale studies show. We think the honest response is to take the concern seriously, explain what the research actually says, and be transparent about our screening process — not to dismiss the question.