Chiropractic Statistics and Facts for 2023

In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, chiropractic care continues to play a big role in providing non-invasive solutions for pain management and overall well-being. Let’s delve into chiropractic statistics and fun facts that reflect where the industry is heading in 2023 and why it will continue to be a popular choice for many Americans. 

Top 39 Chiropractor Statistics 

Here are some interesting chiropractic facts that showcase precisely the key role of this healthcare service. In 2023, it has become obvious that chiropractic is playing a significant role in American well-being. Indeed, chiropractic has emerged as a beacon of non-invasive hope, enhancing the health management of many patients across the US and the world. Through spinal adjustment and holistic approaches, chiropractors are rewriting the narrative of chronic pain relief.

The appeal of chiropractic care is resounding, offering an avenue to reduce healthcare costs and by steering clear of excessive medication and invasive treatments. As the industry gains momentum and constantly evolves, individuals are turning to chiropractors to address a spectrum of ailments, from back pain to migraines, with an emphasis on whole-body harmony. 

Join us in exploring the top 39 chiropractic statistics, a testament to the growing influence of chiropractors in promoting wellness, saving costs, and nurturing a healthier society. 

1. Medicare could save $83.5 million every year on back pain treatments by replacing doctor visits with chiropractor visits. [1]
2. The worth of the chiropractic market in the United States is estimated to be around $20 billion. [2]
3. Over 35 million Americans, including adults and children, see a chiropractor every year. [3]
4. In the majority of US states, chiropractors are registered as physician-level healthcare providers. [4]
5. Low-back pain treatment by a medical doctor is 40% more expensive than by a chiropractor. [5]
6. Every day across America, one million chiropractic adjustments are performed. [6]
7. Every year, the number of chiropractic visits reaches over 280 million in the United States. [7]
8. Those aged between 45 and 64 and women are the most likely to pay a visit to a chiropractic clinic. [8]
9. There are currently more than 100,000 chiropractors registered all around the world. [9]
10. In the US only, there are about 67,000 chiropractic businesses. [10]
11. Chiropractors are the third-largest group of medical practitioners. [11]
12. The first chiropractic license in the US was delivered in Kansas in 1913. [12]
13. Chiropractors are recognized medical practitioners in the US, regulated and licensed D.C.s in the 50 states. [13]
14. Chiropractors are also regulated by law and recognized in over 60 countries all around the world. [14]
15. Employment of chiropractors is projected to grow 9% through 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. [15] 
16. 6 in 10 patients visiting a chiropractor are women. [16]
17. Almost half (46%) of all chiropractic patients visit for treatment for lower back pain. [17]
18. The top two most common reasons for chiropractic visits in the US are back pain and neck pain, followed by headaches, allergies, and sinus issues. [18]
19. Around 2 million children visit chiropractors in the US every year. [19]
20. Americans are more likely to say chiropractic care is safer than back surgery or pain medication for back and neck pain treatments. [20]
21. 6 in 10 patients receiving chiropractic care have insurance coverage. [21]
22. Around 10,000 students are currently studying in one of the accredited schools for chiropractors in the USA. [22]
23. You are 60% less likely to need to receive hospital treatment when you receive chiropractic care for your ailment. [23] This is a statement to the efficacy of chiropractic treatment. 
24. Regular chiropractic visits can reduce your pharmaceutical expenses by 85%. [24] This alone is a statement to keeping medical costs low, both for healthcare insurance and patients. 
25. The U.S. Bureau of Labor expects the chiropractic industry to continue to grow by 9% until 2032. [25]
26. Almost 8 in 10 chiropractors are men. Perhaps this is linked to the first person who introduced chiropractic care in the US. Nevertheless, there are many initiatives to bring more women to the profession.  [26]
27. On average a chiropractor makes more than $75,000 a year. [27]
28. The average visit to a chiropractor will cost between $50 and $75 in the US for spinal adjustment. [28]
29. The states with the highest number of chiropractors in the USA are California, Florida and Texas. [29]
30. Every year, Medicare spends between $400 million and $500 million on chiropractic care alone. [30] This highlights the growing importance and widespread recognition of chiropractic care.
31. Chiropractic care is recognized as being a safe and effective approach to address and resolve the needs of infants. [31]
32. The movement of the spine generates 90% of the essential stimulation and nutrition to the brain. [32] 
33. The first US chiropractic patient was called Harvey Lillard and received chiropractic care in 1895 to regain his hearing. [33] This is a testimony of the long history of chiropractic care in the United States. This doesn’t reflect the existence of similar care previous to this in the US and around the world before the official recognition of chiropractic adjustments. 
34. The Foundation for Chiropractic Education and Research is committed to demonstrate through multiple studies, publications, and peer reviews the scientific approach of chiropractic adjustments and create a chiropractic standard. [34] 
35. The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners was first incorporated in 1963 and gradually became the accepted path before licensure applications across the US. [35]
36. More than 30% of the National Football League has a chiropractor available in the team to increase the performance of players. [36]
37. Pain management for neck, back, and headache make up 90% of all the care patients seek with a chiropractor. [37]
38. Chiropractic students are required to perform 4,200 hours of therapy and practical teaching. [38]
39. The American College of Physicians has released an important update for the treatment for lower back pain recommending treatment such as chiropractic care as a priority. [39]

[1]: https://www.acatoday.org/advocacy/medicare/cost-effectiveness-of-chiropractic-for-medicare-patients/

[2]: https://ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/chiropractors-industry/

[3]:https://www.acatoday.org/news-publications/newsroom/key-facts

[4]: https://www.cleveland.edu/why-chiropractors-are-doctors-and-how-to-become-one/

[5]: https://renzechiro.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Chiropractic_Saves_40_Percent_FEB11.pdf

[6]: http://www.monumentalchiropractic.com/cleaning-and-prevention

[7]: https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/RB4539.html

[8]: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/spinal-manipulation-what-you-need-to-know

[9]: https://chiromt.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12998-019-0255-x

[10]: https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/chiropractors-industry/

[11]: https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/RB4539.html

[12]: https://www.acatoday.org/about/history-of-chiropractic/

[13]: https://handsdownbetter.org/about-chiropractic/

[14]: https://chiromt.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12998-019-0255-x#:~:text=The%20practice%20of%20chiropractic%20was,in%2012%20(13.3%25)%20countries.

[15]: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/chiropractors.htm

[16]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3391776/

[17]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2786244/

[18]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2786244/

[19]: https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/recent-trends-in-pediatric-chiropractic-use-the-good-the-bad-and-the-unhelpful/

[20]: https://news.gallup.com/poll/194984/one-four-adults-sought-care-neck-back-pain-last-year.aspx?g_source=Well-Being&g_medium=newsfeed&g_campaign=tiles

[21]: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/research/research-results/study-reveals-insurance-coverage-patterns-for-acupuncture-chiropractic-and-massage

[22]: https://www.acatoday.org/news-publications/newsroom/key-facts/

[23]: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17509435/

[24]: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17509435/

[25]: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/chiropractors.htm

[26]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3391776/

[27]: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/chiropractors.htm

[28]: https://oaklandlifemed.com/how-much-does-chiropractic-care-cost/

[29]: https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/chiropractors-united-states

[30]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6699757/

[31]: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19733815/

[32]: https://www.escarpmentmagazine.ca/wellness/posture-and-spinal-hygiene-improves-brain-function/

[33]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Harvey_Lillard

[34]: https://dynamicchiropractic.com/article/45336-foundation-for-chiropractic-education-and-research

[35]: https://www.nbce.org/about-nbce/chiropractic-care/

[36]: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0161475402749774

[37]: http://foundation4chiroeducation.com/studies.php

[38]: https://www.acatoday.org/news-publications/newsroom/key-facts/

[39]: https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M16-2367

Chiropractic Injury Statistics 

Exploring the realm of chiropractic care and more importantly safety, it is crucial to review chiropractic injury statistics related to spinal manipulation. Research highlights spinal manipulation as a safer option compared to primary care alternatives, where 1 in 10 patients is harmed while receiving care during hospital visits. [40] Indeed, the injury rate associated with chiropractic care remains considerably lower than in primary care, with one in one million risks of serious complications. [41]

Amidst concerns about strokes, recent findings underscore a nuanced perspective. In Medicare beneficiaries aged 66-99, the stroke risk associated with chiropractic care was found considerably lower at 7 days compared to primary care. The overall findings continue to emphasize the safety of chiropractic care. [42]

Serious adverse events, though acknowledged, occur at a notably low incidence rate, ranging from 1 per 2 million manipulations to 13 per 10,000 chiropractic patients. [43] Observations refer to cases including adults and children and encompass spinal and neurological complications as well as strokes. 

Specifically, one of the most frequent adverse chiropractic injuries, while rare, refer to vertebral artery dissections. Amidst 32 reported cases in a period of five years, many individuals experienced either full recovery or mild deficit. [44] Compared to the extent of chiropractic care which treats over 35 million Americans every year, chiropractic injury statistics regarding adverse injuries are extremely low. [45]

Lastly, addressing fatalities, neck manipulation’s associated fatality risk is estimated at three per 10 million people. [46] Compared to neck surgical procedures, which have a higher fatality risk, chiropractic manipulations appear considerably safer. 

[40]: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/patient-safety

[41]: https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/monograph_reports/2007/MR781.pdf

[42]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4336806

[43]: https://chiromt.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12998-017-0168-5

[44]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1905885/

[45]: https://news.gallup.com/poll/194984/one-four-adults-sought-care-neck-back-pain-last-year.aspx?g_source=Well-Being&g_medium=newsfeed&g_campaign=tiles

[46]: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/cervical-manipulation

Chiropractic Efficacy Statistics 

Chiropractic efficacy transpires in the treatment of issues such as back and neck pain. A comprehensive survey revealed that individuals receiving chiropractic care as their primary treatment for lower-back and neck pain were exposed to 76% less risk of injury to the head, neck and trunk compared to primary care patients. [47] Moreover, 90% of chiropractor’s patients reported a 30% reduction in low back pain intensity over the course of six weeks. [48]

Chiropractors take the lead in addressing spine pain and therefore are more likely to handle car accident-related neck pain, whiplash, which emphasizes their expertise in neck pain treatment. [49] As such, around 13% of injuries treated by chiropractors relate to neck pain. [50]

The impact of chiropractic efficacy is so profound that many patients do not need regular visits. Around 35% of survey respondents explain they didn’t need to visit a chiropractor in the last year because the treatment had been so effective after their previous visits. [51] 

It is worth noting that chiropractic efficacy transcends pain management, extending also its beneficial treatment to weight loss. While the prevalence of weight loss management through chiropractors is low, this showcases the multi-dimensional influence on chiropractic care on health. [52] Patients can expect to see more development in this area in the future, as chiropractors begin to receive a wider variety of health complaints. 

In comparison to other medical professions, chiropractors’ patients record some of the highest satisfaction levels, with 83% of patients to chiropractic care being satisfied with the treatment they received. On the other hand, patients express practically half the same amount of satisfaction in the treatment they received from standard medical care only. [53]

[47]: https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4326543/

[48]: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28871611/

[49]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2585479/

[50]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2786244/

[51]: https://www.statista.com/statistics/757473/main-reasons-not-visiting-chiropractor-us/

[52]: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S016147541830040X

[53]: https://chiroup.com/copssynopsis2021

10 Chiropractic Fun Facts 

Here are some exciting chiropractic industry fun facts to highlight the role and the history of this healthcare practice.

In a remarkable consumer survey, chiropractors have emerged as the most effective approach for back pain treatment. Chiropractors’ treatment has outperformed prescription medication, deep-tissue massage, yoga, pilates, and even over-the-counter therapies in addressing one of the most prevalent health concerns. [54]

The term chiropractic finds its root in the ancient world. It is derived from the Greek words “cheir”, meaning hand, and “praktos”, meaning done. The term encapsulates the essence of manual manipulation methods done for the purpose of healing. As it happens, similar methods have been practiced since antiquity, but it is only recently that the science behind it appeared. [55]

The journey of chiropractic treatment began with a pivotal moment in 1895 when Daniel David Palmer performed the first chiropractic adjustment on Harvey Lillard. His legacy extends further as he established the first chiropractic school in Davenport, Iowa, in 1897 and paved the way for continuous refinement in manual manipulation techniques. [56]

Chiropractic treatment has been described as very or somewhat effective by 67% of patients who sought a chiropractor in the USA for back and neck pain. This underscores the impact of this done-by-hand practice in the overall well-being of the population. [57]

You frequently hear an audible “pop” during a chiropractic appointment. While many describe the noise as “bone cracking,” in reality the pop is caused by the release of the air bubbles between the joints. This phenomenon is not related to the effectiveness of the treatment. [58]

Solid evidence showcases the efficacy of spinal manipulation when it comes to addressing back pain. The positive results are the same as the prolonged combination of medical care and exercise, which further reinforces the position of chiropractors in the fight against back pain. [59]

In a climate grappling with drug overuse, health organizations have been advocating non-drug approaches for pain relief, with chiropractic practices at the forefront. The paradigm shifts could, in the long term, considerably reduce the need for prescription pain medications by offering holistic solutions instead. [60]

Beyond healing injuries, chiropractors’ role resonates within the realm of professional athletes. Golfing genius Tiger Woods, has been leaning on chiropractic treatment not only for recovery but also for optimizing his performance, addressing musculoskeletal imbalances, and rectifying his posture. [61]

Chiropractors treat a vast demographic of patients, including infants and teens with a high majority of teens aged between 14 and 17, who can all benefit from different manipulations. [62]

As back pain is the top leading cause of disability around the world, it is worth noting the prevalence of back pain patients among chiropractors [63]. Over one-third of people seeing chiropractor seek back pain relief for improved quality of life. [64]

[54]: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/04/alternative-treatments/index.htm

[55]: https://www.acatoday.org/about/history-of-chiropractic/

[56]: https://www.acatoday.org/about/history-of-chiropractic/

[57]: https://news.gallup.com/poll/194984/one-four-adults-sought-care-neck-back-pain-last-year.aspx?g_source=Well-Being&g_medium=newsfeed&g_campaign=tiles

[58]:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9531394/

[59]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8915715

[60]: https://www.acatoday.org/about/history-of-chiropractic/

[61]: https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/561107963/tiger-woods-reveals-his-secrets-about-recovery-and-returning-to-golf

[62]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2807756/

[63]: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/414769

[64]: https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/chiropractic-pain-relief

Experience Top-Notch Chiropractic Care at Northeast Spine and Sports Medicine 

We certainly hope you’ve enjoyed our chiropractic facts and the different conditions that chiropractors can help you with. Pain is a top priority in the healthcare industry, and for our chiropractors, pain management specialties represent a large portion of the treatments we provide. 

As such, if you experience long-lasting back or neck pain, or are wondering about pain and performance management as part of your active lifestyle, we strongly encourage you to reach out to our team of experts at Northeast Spine and Sports Medicine. We proudly serve Ocean County, Monmouth County, and surrounding NJ areas. We are only a phone call away, so do not hesitate to reach out and book your first appointment with us.