This is a fear most people don’t say out loud, but it’s real:
“What if the chiropractor finds something serious?”
A tumour. Nerve damage. Something that’s not just a stiff back or a sore neck.
Let’s talk about it honestly — because avoiding the question only fuels the anxiety.
First: Chiropractors Are Trained to Spot Red Flags
One of the biggest misconceptions about chiropractors is that we only know about joints and posture.
In reality, chiropractors (in the UK and many other countries) are primary healthcare professionals. That means they are trained not only to assess musculoskeletal problems — like pain, stiffness, posture issues — but also to identify when something more serious might be going on.
A big part of chiropractic education is understanding when a problem isn’t a chiropractic case.
That includes:
- Recognising signs of serious neurological dysfunction
- Spotting possible indicators of cancer, fractures, or systemic disease
- Identifying medical red flags that require further investigation
- Knowing when (and how) to refer patients to the appropriate specialist
Chiropractors don’t diagnose cancer or prescribe medications. But they are trained to know when something doesn’t look or feel right — and to take appropriate steps to keep you safe.
So What Happens If Something Does Look Serious?
Let’s say your chiropractor finds something during your consultation or examination that raises concern. What happens next?
They’ll talk to you about it, clearly and calmly.
They may:
- Refer you to your GP for further investigation
- Recommend imaging (like X-rays or MRI) if it hasn’t already been done
- Advise postponing treatment until a more complete medical picture is available
The goal is always safety first.
You won’t be kept in the dark. And you won’t be adjusted if it’s not safe or appropriate to do so.
But What If It’s Nothing?
Most of the time, it’s not something serious. But for many people, the fear is still there — often because they’ve been in pain for a long time without answers.
This is exactly why an initial consultation is so important, especially at The Backstory, because we’re so thorough.
You’ll have a full discussion about your symptoms, your history, your lifestyle, and anything else that could be relevant to help us understand where your body is at now. You’ll be examined properly. And if there’s any doubt, further steps will be taken before starting care.
Bottom Line Is..
At The Backstory, our chiropractors are trained to support your health — not guess, not gamble, and certainly not risk your safety.
If something serious is suspected, it won’t be ignored. And if it’s not, you’ll leave feeling reassured, not rushed.
Either way, you get clarity. And that’s what healthcare is supposed to give you.
