Can chiropractic care actually affect your immune system? A look at the science behind the claims

While some claims suggest chiropractic adjustments can directly boost your immune system to prevent illness, the scientific reality is more nuanced. The most plausible connection lies not in fighting specific viruses, but in how spinal health influences the nervous system, which in turn helps regulate the body's overall function, including the immune response. A responsible approach focuses on improving musculoskeletal health and reducing physiological stress to support the body's innate healing capabilities.

The origin of the "immune-boosting" chiropractic claim

Walk into many wellness circles, and you may hear a compelling story: that chiropractic care can strengthen your immune system, helping you ward off everything from the common cold to the flu. This idea is not new; in fact, its roots are often traced back over a century to the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic. Proponents of the theory often point to anecdotal reports from that era suggesting that patients under chiropractic care had better survival rates. While historically interesting, these century-old accounts lack the scientific controls necessary to draw any firm conclusions about cause and effect.

More recently, a handful of small-scale studies have been used to support the idea of an immune boost. One of the most frequently cited pieces of research is from the work of Ronald Pero, PhD, who in the 1970s and 80s conducted research suggesting that people under long-term chiropractic care had healthier immune system markers. His study indicated that chiropractic patients had higher levels of certain immune cells. However, it's important to view this research in context. These were preliminary studies, and the field of immunology and our understanding of the neuro-immune connection has evolved dramatically since then. Modern science demands more rigorous, large-scale, and repeatable trials to validate such a significant claim.

The core concept promoted by some practitioners is that of the vertebral subluxation, a misalignment of the spine purported to interfere with nerve signals. The theory suggests that this interference can suppress immune function, and that chiropractic adjustments, by correcting these subluxations, can restore the proper nervous system regulation and immunity. While the relationship between the nervous system and immune system is a vibrant area of scientific research, the direct link from a "subluxation" to a suppressed immune response remains a point of significant debate and is not widely accepted by the broader medical and scientific communities.

Addressing the scientific controversy head-on

It is crucial for any patient seeking care to understand the significant scientific controversy surrounding direct immune-boosting claims. The idea that a spinal adjustment can prevent or cure infectious diseases is not supported by mainstream scientific evidence. This became particularly contentious during the global health crisis of 2020. At that time, claims that chiropractic therapy could impact the immune system were noted to clash directly with official guidance from major health bodies like the World Health Organization and the World Federation of Chiropractic according to a published statement.

In response to these pervasive claims, the global chiropractic research community came together to provide clarity. A united statement from over 150 researchers across 11 countries was unequivocal in its conclusion, stating that there was 'no valid clinical scientific evidence that chiropractic care can impact the immune system' as published by a team of international academics. This powerful statement underscores a major divide within the profession itself: one side promoting chiropractic as a form of preventative chiropractic care for immunity, and the other, evidence-based side focusing on the well-established benefits for musculoskeletal pain and function.

To further assess the existing body of research, a systematic review was published in JAMA Network Open on April 13, 2021. This review was specifically conducted to formally assess studies that evaluated the link between spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) and outcomes related to infectious disease and the immune system as detailed in the journal. The findings did not support the claim that SMT can prevent or treat infectious diseases. Acknowledging this controversy isn't meant to dismiss chiropractic care, but to empower patients with the truth. Trustworthiness in healthcare is built on transparency, and it’s vital to separate what is proven from what is, at best, theoretical and, at worst, pseudoscientific.

A more plausible pathway: The neuro-immune axis

So, if direct "immune-boosting" is off the table, what is the link between chiropractic and immunity? The answer lies in a more subtle and scientifically plausible framework: the intricate relationship between the spine, the nervous system, and the body's overall regulatory processes, often referred to as neuroimmunology or the neuro-endocrine-immune axis.

Your nervous system is the body's master control system. It communicates with every cell, tissue, and organ, including those of the immune system. The autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions like heart rate and digestion, has two key branches: the sympathetic ("fight-or-flight") and parasympathetic ("rest-and-digest") systems. Chronic stress, pain, and poor posture can push the body into a state of sympathetic dominance. This sustained "fight-or-flight" mode can lead to increased production of stress hormones like cortisol. While cortisol is useful in short bursts, chronically elevated levels can suppress immune function and promote inflammation.

This is where the true potential of chiropractic care for immune system support lies. The goal of chiropractic adjustments is not to magically create more white blood cells to fight a virus, but to improve spinal mechanics, reduce pain signals, and decrease physical stress on the body. By doing so, spinal manipulation may help shift the autonomic nervous system away from a sympathetic-dominant state toward a more balanced, parasympathetic state. This is a key aspect of how chiropractic helps the body heal itself. It's about creating an internal environment conducive to health, a state known as homeostasis.

Modern research is beginning to explore these mechanisms. A 2024 narrative review of 164 papers pointed to the potential neurological effects of spinal manipulation. This review highlights that SMT can cause changes to the nerve signals traveling to and from the brain, which could 'potentially' alter the state of the immune system, brain neuroplasticity, and the body's sense of position (proprioception) according to the research journal. This is not a direct boost; it's about improving the body's communication and self-regulation. Therefore, the benefits of chiropractic adjustments for the immune system are likely indirect, stemming from reduced stress, lower inflammation, and enhanced physiological function.

Red flags vs. green flags: How to identify a responsible chiropractor

Navigating the world of chiropractic care can be confusing, especially with the conflicting information online. The key is to find a practitioner whose philosophy is grounded in evidence and patient-centered goals. Here's how to distinguish between red-flag promises and green-flag goals.

Red Flags: Promises to Watch Out For

• Claims of Preventing or Curing Illness: Any chiropractor who claims their adjustments can prevent you from getting the cold, flu, or other specific infections is making a statement not supported by robust scientific evidence. Chiropractic care for colds and flu is not a recognized, evidence-based treatment.
• Focus on "Boosting" the Immune System: The term "boost" is a marketing buzzword, not a scientific one. The immune system is incredibly complex; you don't want it overactive (which can lead to autoimmune issues) or underactive. The goal is balance, or modulation, not a simplistic boost.
• Required Long-Term "Maintenance" Plans for Immunity: While wellness care can be beneficial, be wary of practitioners who insist on rigid, long-term adjustment schedules specifically for "strengthening the immune system with chiropractic." The decision on how often to get adjusted for immune support should be a collaborative one based on your overall health goals, not a fear-based sales tactic.

Green Flags: Signs of an Evidence-Based Practice

• Focus on Musculoskeletal Health: A responsible chiropractor's primary focus will be on diagnosing and treating issues of the muscles, joints, and nervous system. They will talk about improving mobility, reducing pain, and restoring proper function.
• Discussion of Overall Wellness and Stress Reduction: A great practitioner will explain how chiropractic care can be one part of a holistic approach to health. They'll discuss how reducing pain and improving spinal function can decrease physiological stress, improve sleep, and enable you to be more active—all factors that genuinely support a healthy immune system.
• Patient-Centered Goals: The conversation should be about you. What are your goals? Are you recovering from an injury? Managing chronic pain? Seeking to improve your athletic performance? A green-flag chiropractor tailors the care plan to your specific needs.

For many patients, the most profound benefits are seen in pain relief and functional improvement. One patient recovering from a serious accident shared, "I was in a car collision and had nonstop knee and leg pain. Shockwave therapy has helped more than anything else..." This focus on a specific, evidence-supported therapy for a clear problem is a hallmark of a results-oriented clinic. Similarly, an athlete found relief that allowed him to return to his passion: "Shockwave treatment has helped my shoulder pain tremendously! It has allowed me to start playing golf again..." These testimonials highlight the core, proven value of manual and adjunctive therapies—restoring function and improving quality of life.

Answering your common questions about chiropractic and immunity

Does chiropractic adjustment help the immune system?

Indirectly, it may. By reducing pain, improving spinal mobility, and decreasing physical stress on the body, chiropractic adjustments can help down-regulate the "fight-or-flight" nervous system response. This may contribute to a better-regulated internal environment where the immune system can function optimally. However, there is no strong scientific evidence to support the claim that adjustments directly prevent or cure illnesses like the cold or flu.

Why do some doctors discourage chiropractors?

The skepticism from some medical doctors often stems from a historical divide and a difference in philosophy. The primary source of friction is the unsubstantiated claims made by a segment of the chiropractic profession, particularly around topics like immunity and treating non-musculoskeletal conditions. Medical doctors are trained in an evidence-based model and are rightly skeptical of treatments that lack rigorous scientific validation. However, collaboration between MDs and evidence-based chiropractors is becoming much more common, especially in the management of back pain, neck pain, and headaches, where chiropractic care has demonstrated effectiveness.

What kind of toxins are released after chiropractic adjustment?

This is a common misconception. The idea that adjustments "release toxins" is not supported by science. The soreness or mild flu-like symptoms some people feel after their first few adjustments are not due to a release of stored toxins. This sensation, known as a therapeutic reaction, is more likely due to the body's response to manual therapy. It can be caused by the stretching of muscles and ligaments that haven't been moving properly, a temporary inflammatory response as the body begins to heal, or changes in nerve signaling. It's the body adapting to a new state of alignment and movement, not a "detox."

What can worsen your immune system?

Several lifestyle factors are well-documented to negatively impact immune function. These include chronic stress, which elevates cortisol levels; sleep deprivation, which reduces the production of infection-fighting cells; a sedentary lifestyle; and a diet high in processed foods and sugar, which can promote chronic inflammation. Addressing these factors is fundamental to maintaining a resilient immune response. Chiropractic care can play a supportive role by addressing the physical stress and pain components that might be contributing to poor sleep or inactivity.

Evaluating your options: A nuanced comparison

When considering chiropractic care, it helps to understand the different philosophical approaches you might encounter and weigh their pros and cons based on your personal health goals.

Simplistic 'Immune-Boosting' Claims

Description: This approach directly markets chiropractic adjustments as a way to boost immunity and prevent specific illnesses.

• Pros: The message is simple, appealing, and offers a sense of control over one's health.
• Cons: It is not supported by high-quality scientific evidence, can create false expectations, and may erode trust when the promises don't match reality. It positions chiropractic in opposition to mainstream medicine rather than as a complementary therapy.

Plausible Nervous System-Mediated Regulatory Effects

Description: This approach focuses on how improving spinal health can positively influence the nervous system, thereby helping the body better regulate itself, including its immune and inflammatory responses.

• Pros: This framework is scientifically plausible and aligns with the growing field of neuroimmunology. It promotes a holistic view of health, connecting spinal function to overall wellness and homeostasis.
• Cons: The effects are indirect and can be difficult to measure definitively. It's not a "quick fix" or a cure for active infections but rather a long-term strategy for improving the body's resilience.

Targeted Treatment for Pain and Mobility

Description: This is the most evidence-based approach, where chiropractic care is used to diagnose and treat specific musculoskeletal conditions like back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint issues.

• Pros: There is a wealth of scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of SMT for these conditions. The goals and outcomes are clear and measurable. This approach builds trust and is well-respected within the broader healthcare community.
• Cons: Some may feel this view is too narrow and misses the potential for broader, systemic wellness benefits that come from a properly functioning nervous system.

Key factors in your decision

As you weigh these approaches, consider the factors that matter most to you as a healthcare consumer.

Scientific Credibility of Provider's Claims

Does the provider cite high-quality, recent research, or do they rely on anecdotes and outdated studies? Are they transparent about what the evidence does and does not support? A trustworthy provider welcomes questions and provides clear, evidence-based answers.

Effectiveness for Specific Conditions

If you have a specific problem—like sciatica, migraines, or a sports injury—is the provider focused on a targeted plan to address that issue? Look for a track record of success with conditions similar to yours, as this is where chiropractic care has the strongest evidence of benefit.

Focus on Overall Wellness vs. Disease Prevention

Clarify your own goals. Are you looking for a magic bullet to prevent colds, or are you seeking to improve your body's overall function, reduce stress, and build resilience? An honest provider will frame the benefits of care in terms of improving function and wellness, not as a direct line to preventing disease.

Making the right choice for your needs

Ultimately, the best approach depends on your individual needs, goals, and mindset. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

For the Skeptical Pain Sufferer: If you are dealing with a chronic condition like low back pain and are wary of unsubstantiated claims, your best bet is to seek a chiropractor who practices a targeted, evidence-based model. Look for a clinic that focuses on measurable outcomes in pain reduction and functional improvement. Their language should be about biomechanics, pain management, and rehabilitation, not "immune boosts."

For the Injured Athlete: Your priority is functional recovery. You need a provider who understands sports medicine and can create a targeted treatment plan to get you back to your peak performance. Their approach should combine spinal manipulation with other therapies like soft tissue work, rehabilitative exercises, and modalities like shockwave therapy to address the specific injury and restore mobility and strength.

For the Wellness-Oriented Pragmatist: You desire holistic care to improve how your body functions, but you require a scientifically plausible framework. You'll connect best with a chiropractor who embraces the neuro-immune connection. They will explain care in terms of reducing physiological stress, improving nervous system regulation, and supporting the body's natural ability to heal and adapt—all while being transparent about the limits of the current research.

At Pure Relief Pain Solutions Chiropractic, we are firmly grounded in an evidence-based, patient-centered approach. We believe the true power of chiropractic care lies in its proven ability to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and improve the overall function of the body. By focusing on the intricate connection between your spine and nervous system, we help reduce the physical stressors that can compromise your well-being, allowing your body to better regulate and heal itself. If you are in the Austin, TX area and seeking a transparent, results-driven partner in your health journey, contact our team today for a comprehensive assessment.