It’s a fair question — and one we hear a lot.
“If chiropractic care is so effective… why didn’t my GP mention it?”
You’re not alone in wondering this.
Many people feel confused — or even frustrated — when they finally experience relief through chiropractic, only to realise it was never mentioned as an option by their regular doctor. So let’s unpack this properly.
The Short Answer?
It’s not because chiropractic doesn’t work.
It’s not because your GP didn’t care.
It’s because the healthcare system wasn’t built to include it.
The Long Answer? A System That Works in Silos
Healthcare in the UK is incredibly valuable — but it’s also incredibly stretched. GPs are under enormous pressure, often seeing 30–40 patients a day, with just 10 minutes per appointment. Their primary goal is to rule out serious illness, manage medication, and refer into NHS-approved services when necessary.
And here’s the key point:
Chiropractic is not part of the standard NHS pathway.
Even though chiropractors are regulated primary healthcare professionals — just like dentists and optometrists — and have years of training in anatomy, neurology, and musculoskeletal health, they don’t work within the NHS system (with very rare local exceptions).
So your GP might not have the exposure, training, or referral pathways to recommend chiropractic — even if it could help.
Some GPs Do Recommend It — Privately
There are plenty of GPs who understand the value of chiropractic care, and who refer patients informally or privately. But this depends on the individual doctor — their knowledge, experience, and whether they’ve seen it work firsthand.
Unfortunately, chiropractic is still poorly understood in many medical circles. Some doctors may view it as “alternative” or lump it in with therapies they aren’t trained in. Others are open to it but haven’t had the time to explore it properly.
So… Is Chiropractic Evidence-Based?
Yes. There is now a substantial and continually growing body of scientific evidence supporting chiropractic care—particularly for conditions like back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Research into chiropractic and manual therapy continues to evolve, with high-quality studies consistently demonstrating its effectiveness, safety, and role in improving function and quality of life.
Major organisations like NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) have recommended manual therapy, including chiropractic-style spinal manipulation, for some types of low back pain. Chiropractic care also includes assessment, exercise advice, ergonomic support, and lifestyle recommendations — all supported by guidelines.
But unless your GP stays up to date with this — or has seen the benefits firsthand — they might not be aware of how much chiropractic has evolved, or where it fits.
It’s Not Your GP’s Fault — It’s the System
Most GPs are doing their absolute best with limited time, limited resources, and overwhelming workloads. They can’t possibly know everything about every field — especially those outside the NHS structure.
So if your GP didn’t suggest chiropractic, it’s not because they were withholding something. It’s more likely that:
• They’re working within a system that doesn’t include it
• They haven’t been trained in it
• They don’t have referral links
• They simply don’t know what it actually involves
You’re Allowed to Choose
Here’s the part many people don’t realise:
You don’t need a referral to see a chiropractor.
Chiropractors are primary healthcare providers. That means you can go directly — no GP sign-off required.
And if you want your GP to know you’re receiving chiropractic care, you can request that a report or summary is shared with them — so everyone involved in your care is on the same page.
So now you know that chiropractic isn’t hidden because it doesn’t work — it’s just not always integrated into the system. That’s changing. Slowly. But in the meantime, you’re in control of your own health choices — and the right information can make all the difference.
