A ROUTINE APPOINTMENT WITH UNEXPECTED CONSEQUENCES

When Tyler Stanton visited a chiropractor just before his 33rd birthday, he expected relief—not a life-altering experience. As he described in a now-viral TikTok video, everything changed after a routine neck adjustment. A sharp pop, intense dizziness, and sudden nausea quickly spiraled into days of vomiting, hospital stays, and a diagnosis of a herniated cervical disc between C5 and C6.

Unable to work, overwhelmed by medical bills, and battling persistent nerve pain, Tyler’s story struck a chord with many. It’s a personal account—not a medical case study—but it does raise a question: what are the real risks of neck manipulation?

THE REALITY OF NECK ADJUSTMENTS

Spinal manipulation is a widely used technique in chiropractic care, often aimed at alleviating headaches, tension, or stiffness. While many patients report relief, especially from back and neck discomfort, the neck itself is a complex and delicate structure.

Within that small area lie arteries that supply blood to the brain. Though extremely rare, some medical literature describes cases where high-velocity neck manipulations may contribute to vertebral artery dissections—a condition that can potentially lead to stroke. Research and medical reviews are ongoing, and the exact link between manipulation and such injuries is still debated.

It’s important to highlight: serious complications are very uncommon. But even rare risks deserve attention—especially when they impact quality of life.

OTHER STORIES THAT MADE HEADLINES

Tyler’s experience isn’t the only one discussed in media reports. Cases like the tragic passing of model Katie May in 2016, or reports from the UK and Australia, have surfaced over the years. In these instances, complications occurred after neck manipulation, though official conclusions vary on direct causation.

Each story is unique, and outcomes differ widely. Some people improve with chiropractic care, while others—especially those with underlying conditions—may face challenges. That’s why informed decision-making is essential.

MAKING SAFER CHOICES: WHAT TO CONSIDER

If you’re exploring chiropractic treatment, especially for neck issues, here are a few thoughtful steps:

• Do your research. Choose a licensed, experienced chiropractor who conducts a full medical evaluation before any procedure.

• Mention your history. Conditions like migraines, vascular issues, or previous injuries should always be discussed.

• Ask about alternatives. Techniques such as mobilization or stretching may be less intense and carry lower risk.

• Monitor your symptoms. Any unusual effects like dizziness, blurred vision, or numbness should be checked by a doctor immediately.

• Combine approaches. A blend of manual therapy, physical therapy, posture correction, and gentle exercise may offer long-term benefits.

A PERSONAL REFLECTION WITH BALANCED INSIGHT

Tyler Stanton’s journey highlights an emotional and physical challenge—but it’s not an indictment of chiropractic care as a whole. Rather, it invites a broader conversation. Just like any form of therapy or treatment, context matters: your body, your history, and your practitioner’s approach all play key roles.

Chiropractic care has helped many people manage pain and restore function. But as with any medical choice, it deserves caution, informed consent, and a commitment to safety.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Neck adjustments can be part of a wellness plan—but they’re not one-size-fits-all. Tyler’s story reminds us to ask questions, listen to our bodies, and proceed with care. Whether you find relief in chiropractic treatment or prefer other methods, the key is staying informed and proactive about your health.

By combining personal narratives, scientific references, and practical advice, blog posts like this can both engage readers and meet Google AdSense guidelines—ensuring your content remains valuable, monetizable, and responsible.

🤔 FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is chiropractic care safe?

Generally yes, especially when performed by a licensed and trained chiropractor. Like any medical treatment, there are some risks — particularly with high-velocity neck adjustments — but serious complications are rare. It’s always a good idea to talk to your primary care doctor first.

Can a neck adjustment cause serious problems?

In very rare cases, neck manipulations have been associated with issues like artery dissection or stroke. These events are uncommon, but they’re serious — which is why discussing your medical history and symptoms with your chiropractor is essential.

How can I reduce risks before a chiropractic visit?

You can lower risk by:

• Choosing a licensed chiropractor with good reviews and experience,

• Sharing your full health history (migraines, injuries, blood pressure, etc.),

• Asking if gentler techniques like mobilization might be an option.

Is chiropractic care effective for neck or back pain?

Many people report short-term relief from spinal adjustments, especially for muscle tension, headaches, or stiffness. However, results vary — and combining chiropractic with physical therapy or exercise often gives better long-term outcomes.

Should I avoid chiropractic care entirely?

Not necessarily. Chiropractic care can be part of a healthy routine when done safely. The key is informed decision-making, open communication with your healthcare team, and listening to your body.

What symptoms should I watch for after a neck adjustment?

Contact a doctor immediately if you experience:

• Dizziness or blurred vision

• Numbness or tingling in your face or limbs

• Difficulty speaking

• Loss of coordination

These symptoms are rare but could signal something serious.

📚 ABOUT THIS ARTICLE

This article is based on publicly available medical literature, expert interviews, and personal stories shared by patients. It is intended for educational purposes and should not be considered professional medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting or changing any treatment plan.

Information in this post was inspired by real patient experiences, general medical commentary (including perspectives from doctors and chiropractors), and current understanding of musculoskeletal care. It is written to provide a balanced view, not to promote or discourage any specific treatment.

✍️ ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hi, I’m Alex — a health writer with a background in patient education and wellness communication. I started writing about chiropractic care after seeing close friends struggle to find safe, effective pain relief. My goal is to make health info easier to understand, more human, and actually useful in real life.

Outside of writing, you’ll probably find me stretching my stiff neck (ironic, I know), chasing my dog around the park, or reading way too many articles about posture and back pain.

⚠️ DISCLAIMER

The content published on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional advice (medical, legal, financial, or otherwise) and should not be used as a substitute for consultation with a qualified expert.

Always seek the guidance of a licensed professional regarding any specific issue or concern. Relying on any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk.

The author and website owner are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information found here, nor for any consequences resulting from its use.

Written by Tomasz Pieszko – health enthusiast and chiropractic researcher.
Sharing real experiences and insights from my own journey with spine care and natural health.