Is There Truth Behind the Warning — or Is Something Being Missed?
If you’ve ever mentioned chiropractic care to your GP and been met with hesitation, disapproval, or even outright discouragement, you’re not alone.
We often hear from people who say:
“My doctor told me I should never go to a chiropractor.”
And it leaves them stuck—unsure who to trust, or what to do next.
So what’s really going on here?
Is chiropractic dangerous? Are doctors right to warn you away? Or is there more to the story?
Let’s break it down together.
Why Do Some GPs Say This?
There are a few reasons this advice may come up, and not all of them are grounded in current research or personal experience:
1. Lack of Exposure or Understanding
Many medical doctors receive little to no training in musculoskeletal health, postural correction, or chiropractic principles. If they haven’t studied it or worked alongside chiropractors, they may not be familiar with what modern chiropractic care actually involves—or what the evidence says.
2. Outdated Information
Some opinions are formed decades ago and haven’t evolved with the profession. Chiropractic has changed dramatically over the years—many techniques are now backed by research, regulated by governing bodies, and used in collaboration with other healthcare providers.
3. Concern Over Specific Conditions
If a patient has red flags (like recent trauma, suspected fractures, or serious underlying illness), a doctor may rightly advise against certain forms of manual therapy. That doesn’t mean all chiropractic is off the table—but the nuance is often lost in translation.
4. One Negative Story
If a GP has heard a single negative anecdote (from a colleague, a patient, or the media), it can shape their entire perspective. But anecdote is not evidence.
The Truth About Chiropractic Safety
If you’ve been told chiropractic is dangerous, it’s important to look at the data—not just opinions.
• Chiropractic is extremely safe when delivered by a qualified, registered professional.
• Large-scale studies show the risk of serious complications is incredibly low—similar to, or lower than, many routine medical procedures.
• Chiropractors are regulated by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC), and are trained in orthopaedic and neurological assessment, diagnosis, and red flag screening—specifically so they can identify when care is appropriate, and when referral is needed.
But Shouldn’t I Listen to My Doctor?
Yes—but that doesn’t mean taking every word as gospel without exploring your options.
Here’s a truth that applies across all professions:
Even well-meaning advice can be incomplete.
Doctors are experts in their field. Chiropractors are experts in theirs. And often, the best results happen when these professions work together—not against one another.
If your doctor advises against chiropractic care, it’s okay to ask:
• Why do you feel that way?
• Are there specific concerns for my condition?
• Have you worked with chiropractors before?
• Are you open to discussing evidence or options?
Sometimes, it leads to a helpful conversation. Sometimes, it highlights a gap in understanding. Either way, it gives you the chance to make an informed choice.
Final Thought
You don’t have to choose sides.
You don’t have to feel guilty or nervous for exploring what might help you heal.
Chiropractic care isn’t about replacing your doctor. It’s about working with your body, improving function, and restoring movement—especially when nothing else has worked.
If you’ve been told “never see a chiropractor,” ask yourself:
Was that advice based on you, your body, your health history, and your needs?
Or was it based on someone else’s opinion, experience, or outdated information?
The best healthcare decisions are made when you’re empowered, informed, and listened to.
And that’s exactly what you deserve.
