The most recent evidence of spinal manipulation's effectiveness comes from a landmark study conducted by the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, a federal government research organization. In this study, a panel of health care experts analyzed the scientific evidence available on all methods of examination and treatment used for acute adult low back problems and formed conclusions regarding their appropriateness and effectiveness. Among their most significant conclusions, they confirmed that spinal manipulation is a safe and effective initial form of treatment for this problem. This panel also strongly recommended that both doctors and patients consider using the most conservative treatment approach first for this common problem. When administered by a qualified doctor who is well trained and experienced in the use of spinal manipulation, it is one of the safest drugless, nonsurgical procedures available.
Clinical surveys show that complications from manipulation are rare.
So low, in fact, that doctors who perform manipulation have the lowest malpractice insurance costs of all practicing doctors. This means that when manipulation is performed by a Doctor of Chiropractic, the potential risk of complications from manipulation is at its lowest. A word of caution. Spinal manipulation is as much an art as it is a clinical science. It should not be used by unskilled persons.