Chiropractic for Neck Pain

EFFECTIVENESS: 4/5

Virtually all national treatment guidelines recommend at least a trial of manipulation for neck related disorders, including whiplash, though there are times when it may not be appropriate. While manipulation is effective, current research on neck pain recommends “multi-modal care,” typically manipulation, exercise and other treatments used together.

SELF CARE: 1/5

While some people do self- manipulation, we don’t recommend it. See a professional.

COST: 5/5

Manipulation, most commonly provided by chiropractors, is covered by most insurance plans, and typically costs between $25-60 per session. National guidelines recommend trial of care, that is, 6-12 visits with a re-evaluation after the trial to ensure treatment is helping. If there is no improvement after 12 visits, it’s time to move on!

Sources:

Haldeman S, Carey P, Townsend M, Papadopoulos C. Arterial dissections following cervical manipulation: the chiropractic experience. CMAJ: Canadian Medical Association Journal. 2001;165(7):905-906.

Lanas A, Perez-Aisa MA, Feu F, Ponce J, Saperas E, Santolaria S wt al. A nationwide study of mortality associated with hospital admission due to severe gastrointestinal events and those associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use. Am J Gastroenterol. 2005 Aug;100(8):1685-93

http://www.fda.gov/ohrms/dockets/ac/02/briefing/3882B2_02_McNeil-NSAID.htm

Bussières AE, Stewart G, Al-Zoubi F. The Treatment of Neck Pain-Associated Disorders and Whiplash-Associated Disorders: A Clinical Practice Guideline. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2016 Oct;39(8):523-564.e27. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2016.08.007.

USEFULNESS (overall rating): 4/5

Chiropractic care is safe, effective and relatively inexpensive. Recent systematic reviews (the highest level of research) recommend spinal manipulation and mobilization for neck pain and whiplash injuries.