Risk of Injury Following Visits to Health Professionals

There are physiologic changes associated with aging. There are also health conditions that occur more commonly with advancing age. These changes and conditions increase an older adult’s vulnerability to injuries. A recent study investigated risk of injury to Medicare beneficiaries with an office visit for a neuromusculoskeletal problem to chiropractors and primary care physicians.  Specifically, investigators looked at the risk of injury within 7 days of those treated by chiropractic spinal manipulation vs. those evaluated by a primary care physician.  Results showed that risk of injury to the head, neck or trunk within 7 days was 76% lower among subjects with a chiropractic office visit as compared to those who saw a primary care physician.