Objective Physiologic Changes and Associated
Health Benefits of Chiropractic Adjustments
in Asymptomatic Subjects: A Review of the Literature

This section is compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C.
Send all comments or additions to:    Frankp@chiro.org

FROM:   J Vertebral Subluxation Research 2004 (Apr 26): 1–9

Sean M. Hannon, B.A., D.C.

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Objective:   To review existing literature documenting objectively measured physiologic changes and their associated health benefits subsequent to chiropractic adjustments, primarily in asymptomatic individuals.

Data Collection:   “Asymptomatic” “normal” “pain-free” and “healthy” subjects were keywords used to search for articles pertaining to the objective. Data was collected directly from the bound journals of the Palmer College of Chiropractic library in Davenport, IA, Life University library in Marietta, GA, and the Sherman College of Chiropractic library in Spartanburg, SC. Some articles were downloaded from peer-reviewed journals accessible through campus Internet subscription.

Results:   More than twenty studies were found documenting objective health benefits in subjects who were specifically described as “asymptomatic,” “healthy,” “normal,” or “free from physical injury.” Nearly an equal number of studies were found documenting objectively measured health benefits in subjects to which no symptomatic presentation was described.

Conclusion:   The data reviewed lend support to the contention that chiropractic adjustments, often for the purpose of correcting vertebral subluxation, confer measurable health benefits to people regardless of the presence or absence of symptoms. A significant amount of preliminary evidence supports that people without symptoms can benefit from chiropractic care. Improved function can be objectively measured in asymptomatic individuals following chiropractic care in a number of body systems often by relatively non-invasive means. It is plausible that chiropractic care may be of benefit to every function of the body and have the potential for long-term, overall health benefit to those receiving chiropractic care.

Key words:   chiropractic adjustment, subluxation, objective measurement, health benefit

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