Has Anyone Experienced Pins and Needles After Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care is a popular treatment method for a variety of health issues, such as chronic headaches. However, it is not uncommon to experience certain symptoms after a visit to the chiropractor. One of these symptoms is "pins and needles" sensations in the arms and legs. This can be a concern for some patients, but it is essential to understand the significance and safety of such reactions.

The Frequency and Nature of Symptoms

A study titled "Symptomatic Reactions, Clinical Outcomes, and Patient Satisfaction Associated with Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care: A Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study" has provided valuable insights. The research indicates that following upper cervical chiropractic care, there are several common symptomatic reactions (SRs).

According to the summary of the study, the five most frequent SRs following upper cervical care are:

Tiredness at a 10.4% occurrence rate Radiating pain at a 6.3% occurrence rate Neck pain at a 5.4% occurrence rate Dizziness at a 4.9% occurrence rate Headache at a 4.2% occurrence rate

The study notes that these reactions are primarily mild in intensity and have a short duration, with very little impact on daily living. Furthermore, no reports of severe SRs or adverse events (Ae) were documented.

While the sensation of "pins and needles" in the arms and legs can be concerning, it does fall into the category of parasthesia, which is relatively uncommon among the common SRs. However, another study, "Predictors of Adverse Events Following Chiropractic Care for Patients with Neck Pain", suggests that the use of higher force rotation techniques may be a potential predictor of such reactions.

What You Should Do

If you are experiencing "pins and needles" sensations in your arms or legs after a visit to the chiropractor, it is important to discuss this with your chiropractor. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest different techniques to minimize the likelihood of such reactions in the future.

Furthermore, if you prefer a more specific and gentle approach, you could consider consulting an upper cervical specialist. These specialists are trained in low-force and more specific adjustment techniques that may be better suited for your needs.

Conclusion

The experience of "pins and needles" sensations following chiropractic care is not uncommon, and while it can be concerning, it is generally mild and does not significantly impact daily activities. It is always advisable to discuss any concerns with your chiropractor to ensure the best possible care and to explore options that align with your comfort and preferences.