Each year, new research reinforces the same conclusion: chiropractic spinal manipulation poses no greater risk than other forms of treatment.
Here are three different studies that found more evidence that chiropractic is safe.
Acute neck pain: effective and safe (systematic review + meta-analysis) A 2025 systematic review in Systematic Reviews concluded that the available data support spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) for reducing pain, improving cervical range of motion, and decreasing disability in patients with acute neck pain.Link
This echoes a systematic review from last year: “no statistically significant difference in AEs [Adverse Events] between manipulation and control groups. All reported AEs were mild (e.g. temporary pain aggravation, soreness); no moderate or serious AEs occurred… HVLA cervical manipulation does not increase the risk of mild or moderate AEs compared to controls.” (3) Pankrath et al. Pain Physician. 2024 Link
And a new systematic review confirms what several prior biomechanical studies have shown: “consistent evidence that cervical SMT induces less strain on the vertebral artery, particularly within the V3 segment, compared to passive cervical ROM.” (4) Fagundes C et al. Clinical Biomechanics. Dec 2025.Link
And… an extensive Medicare study of neck pain patients also confirmed: “Management with chiropractic care was associated with lower rates of adverse events than primary medical care. The prescription drug therapy group had the highest risk of any measured adverse outcome.” (5) Whedon et al. JMPT. Sept 2025
If you’re in pain and want a safe, effective treatment option without drugs, call or text us. We’d be happy to schedule an appointment and see whether you may benefit from chiropractic care.
Sikorsky Chiropractic Clinic provides high-quality chiropractic care in Elgin, IL. Visit our website to learn more and explore the conditions we treat.
You’ve probably heard of REM sleep, Light sleep Deep sleep, HRV or you might even track your sleep with a Whoop, Aura ring or fitness watch.
But what does all of that actually mean?
Let’s break it down.
Sleep Is Not Passive
Sleep isn’t “doing nothing” — it’s a highly active, regenerative process. Your brain cycles through different stages, each with a job to do:
Light Sleep Theta brain waves ease you out of wakefulness and into sleep. This stage sets the foundation for deeper physical and mental repair.
Deep Sleep (Slow-Wave Sleep) Delta waves dominate here. This is when:
Growth hormone is released
Tissues repair
Your brain helps clear metabolic waste and toxins
REM Sleep Your brain waves look similar to when you’re awake, but your body is effectively “offline.” REM is key for:
Memory consolidation
Emotional resilience
Creativity and problem-solving
HRV: A Window Into Stress and Recovery
Heart Rate Variability (HRV) measures the small variations between heartbeats.
Higher HRV → better recovery, adaptability, and nervous system balance
Lower HRV → may indicate chronic stress, overtraining, or poor recovery
You don’t need perfect numbers, but trends over time can tell you how well your body is bouncing back.
How to Optimize Your Sleep
Go to bed and wake up at consistent times — even on weekends.
Create a wind-down routine: meditation, breathing exercises, light stretching, or journaling.
Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
Avoid screens before bed — or at least use blue-light filters.
How to Support Better Sleep During the Day
First Thing in the morning get 10 minutes of sunlight on your body while your drinking coffee. Sitting in the sunlight will help tell the body to wake up.
Move your body daily. Even a walk helps regulate your nervous system.
Stay hydrated. Aim for about half your body weight in ounces of water
Example: 160 lbs → ~80 oz of water per day
Avoid alcohol before bed. It may help you fall asleep, but it disrupts deep and REM sleep.
Limit blue light exposure at night. Blue light from phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with melatonin and delay sleep.
Bottom line: Good sleep is not an accident. When you understand your sleep stages and HRV, you can make small, targeted changes that lead to deeper recovery, less stress, and better performance in your daily life.
Most people understand that calorie restriction (dieting) can lead to weight loss, and that exercise can also contribute to weight loss. This study compared the effects of calorie restriction alone, exercise alone, and the combination of calorie restriction with exercise on total weight loss.
Summary
In this secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial, combining calorie restriction with high amounts of exercise led to greater fat loss and better preservation of fat-free mass than either moderate exercise or diet alone.
What was studied?
Researchers examined how different exercise volumes (moderate vs. high) during calorie restriction influence body composition in adults with type 2 diabetes and overweight/obesity. Outcomes included changes in total body fat, visceral fat, and fat-free mass.
All participants had type 2 diabetes and overweight/obesity.
How was it studied?
Participants were randomized to one of four groups for 16 weeks:
Control: Standard medical care only.
Diet-only: 25%–30% calorie restriction, no exercise.
Moderate exercise: Diet + 150–165 min/week of combined aerobic + resistance training (3 sessions/week).
High exercise: Diet + 300–330 min/week of combined training (6 sessions/week).
Aerobic training: Stationary cycling, intensity based on heart rate.
Resistance training: Major muscle groups (legs, chest, back) at near-failure, 8–12 reps per set.
Key Results
Body fat percentage reduction:
High-dose: –8.0%
Moderate-dose: –6.3%
Diet-only: –3.5%
Visceral fat reduction:
High-dose: –1,786 mL
Moderate-dose: –1,264 mL
Diet-only: –666 mL
Fat-free mass (FFM):
Preserved in high-dose group
Declined in diet-only (–0.7 kg) and moderate-dose (–0.5 kg)
Big Picture
Why this matters:
Fat loss improves insulin sensitivity and lowers cardiovascular risk.
Visceral fat reduction is particularly valuable because it disproportionately drives metabolic dysfunction.
Preserving FFM (muscle mass) is crucial for long-term metabolic health and prevention of sarcopenia.
Takeaway: High-frequency combined training (aerobic + resistance) amplifies the benefits of calorie restriction, producing greater reductions in fat—especially visceral fat—while preserving muscle mass.
If pain is preventing you from exercising, give us a call or schedule online. We can help reduce your pain so you can move more comfortably, exercise with greater ease, and improve your results from dietary changes.
Here’s a blog post based on the study titled “Ultra-processed foods and cardiovascular disease: analysis of three large US prospective cohorts and a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies” (BMJ, 2024). The blog is simplified for a general audience and includes a proper citation at the end.
Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Increased Risk of Heart Disease: What You Need to Know
A major new study published in The BMJ in 2024 has confirmed what many nutrition experts have long warned: eating a high amount of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is strongly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease—including heart attacks, stroke, and related deaths.
What Are Ultra-Processed Foods?
Ultra-processed foods are industrially manufactured products that go far beyond the use of salt, sugar, or fat. These include packaged snacks, sugary beverages, frozen meals, sweetened breakfast cereals, and many fast foods. They’re often high in calories and low in nutrients, but what’s even more concerning is the way they may affect the body over time.
What Did the Study Find?
This large-scale research drew from three major U.S. cohort studies (involving over 700,000 participants) and combined it with a systematic review and meta-analysis of 45 additional prospective studies. Key findings included:
Individuals with the highest intake of ultra-processed foods had a 24% increased risk of cardiovascular disease compared to those with the lowest intake.
There was a 39% higher risk of cardiovascular-related death among those consuming the most UPFs.
The strongest associations were seen with products like processed meats, sugary beverages, and ready-to-eat meals.
Why This Matters
Heart disease is still the leading cause of death in the United States. This study adds to a growing body of evidence that not all calories are created equal—and that food quality, especially processing level, plays a critical role in long-term heart health.
Action Steps You Can Take
Read ingredient labels – If you can’t recognize or pronounce the ingredients, it’s likely ultra-processed.
Cook more at home – Homemade meals typically have fewer preservatives and additives.
Limit sugary drinks and packaged snacks – Swap soda for water or tea, and try fruit or nuts instead of chips or cookies.
Bottom Line: Reducing your intake of ultra-processed foods could be a powerful step toward protecting your heart and overall health.
📚 Citation: Srour, B., Song, M., Sun, Q., et al. (2024). Ultra-processed foods and cardiovascular disease: analysis of three large US prospective cohorts and a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. BMJ, 385, e077255. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2023-077255
Title: How Exercise Helps Lower Blood Pressure in Overweight Kids and Teens
Intro Childhood obesity is on the rise—and with it comes serious health risks, including high blood pressure (hypertension). But can physical activity make a difference? A recent systematic review and meta-analysis published in BMC Pediatrics (2025) offers a hopeful answer.
What Was the Study About? Researchers reviewed 17 studies involving 1,125 overweight children and teens to examine how different types of exercise programs impacted blood pressure. They wanted to know: Which workouts really help—and how long do they need to last?
Key Findings
✅ Exercise Works: Both systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number) blood pressure significantly dropped in kids who took part in regular exercise programs.
📉 Best Results Came From These Workouts:
HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training)
MICT (Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training)
These were the most effective at lowering blood pressure. Other types like resistance training or recreational sports didn’t show consistent results.
📏 How Much Exercise?
3 sessions per week
60 minutes each
At least 12 weeks long
📊 The Numbers:
Systolic BP dropped by an average of 0.44 standard deviations
Diastolic BP dropped by 0.52 standard deviations
Why This Matters High blood pressure in children isn’t just a temporary problem—it increases the risk for heart disease later in life. These findings support the idea that exercise can be a powerful prevention tool that’s safe, effective, and accessible.
What Should These Programs Look Like? For the best results, the authors recommend:
Programs lasting at least 12 weeks
Three 60-minute sessions per week
Monitoring of heart rate and exercise intensity
Support from a team of professionals (think PE teachers, pediatricians, and family members)
Takeaway If you’re a parent, teacher, or healthcare provider, structured exercise can make a real impact on a child’s heart health. The right training program—especially HIIT or MICT—can help manage or even prevent high blood pressure in kids and teens who are overweight.
If pain is limiting your child’s ability to exercise, call Sikorsky Chiropractic to help them move comfortably and stay active.
Quick Summary A recent meta-analysis combining data from 7 cohort studies and over 681,000 participants (ages 41–67) found that higher olive oil consumption is linked to lower risks of all-cause mortality, cancer mortality, and cardiovascular disease mortality.
Study Highlights
The studies spanned Spain (3), the U.S. (2), Iran (1), and Italy (1), with follow-up periods ranging from 5 to 28 years.
Individuals who consumed more olive oil had:
16% lower risk of cardiovascular-related death
15% lower risk of death from any cause
11% lower risk of cancer-related death
All included studies were rated as having low risk of bias.
These findings reinforce the well-known benefits of olive oil for heart and metabolic health. While observational in nature (meaning they can’t prove causation), the results are consistent across diverse populations and align with olive oil’s recognized anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and heart-protective properties.
High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude (HVLA) manipulation is a well-researched and widely used chiropractic technique that has stood the test of time. This rapid, controlled thrust moves a joint just beyond its normal physiological range—without exceeding anatomical integrity—delivering a range of therapeutic benefits.
But what exactly makes this technique so effective?
In this blog, we’ll explore five key benefits of HVLA spinal manipulation, backed by research, to help you better understand why this time-tested approach continues to be a cornerstone of chiropractic care. Whether you’re a clinician refining your technique or a patient curious about the effects of adjustments, this deep dive will shed light on the powerful impact of spinal manipulation.
1. Biomechanical Benefits: Restoring Joint Function
HVLA adjustments influence the spinal joints, muscles, and ligaments, leading to:
✅ Restored Joint Mobility – Spinal facet joints can become restricted due to poor posture, injury, or repetitive stress. HVLA helps restore mobility by stretching and repositioning these joints.
✅ Reduced Spinal Fixation – The rapid thrust breaks adhesions in the joint capsule and surrounding connective tissue, allowing for improved range of motion.
✅ Decreased Intra-Articular Pressure – HVLA manipulation improves synovial fluid motion, which lubricates the joints and enhances movement.
✅ The Cavitation Effect (“The Pop”) – The audible release during an adjustment occurs due to a sudden change in joint pressure, causing gas bubbles (CO₂, N₂, O₂) to be released from the synovial fluid.
For a deeper understanding of joint manipulation and the science behind the “pop,” check out this blog comparing historical and modern models of spinal adjustments.
HVLA spinal manipulation modulates the central and peripheral nervous system, helping to:
✅ Reduce Pain via the Gate Control Theory – The adjustment activates mechanoreceptors in the spinal joints and soft tissues, which inhibit pain signals sent from nociceptors to the brain.
✅ Relax Muscles Reflexively – Adjustments stimulate muscle spindle afferents and Golgi tendon organs, helping decrease muscle tightness and spasms.
✅ Modulate the Spinal Cord’s Pain Response – HVLA affects sensory processing in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, reducing pain sensitivity.
✅ Improve Proprioception & Motor Control – By restoring normal joint motion, HVLA enhances proprioceptive feedback, improving movement coordination and balance.
Chronic pain is a complex issue, and proper assessment is key. If you’re interested in learning more, check out this blog featuring an expert discussion on pain management strategies.
3. Neurochemical & Inflammatory Benefits: A Natural Painkiller
Did you know spinal adjustments can stimulate the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals? Here’s how:
✅ Endorphin & Enkephalin Release – HVLA stimulates the production of these natural opioids, leading to pain relief and relaxation.
✅ Reduction in Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines – Studies show that spinal manipulation reduces inflammation by lowering TNF-α, IL-6, and PGE2, key mediators in chronic pain conditions like low back pain.
✅ Activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis – HVLA triggers the release of cortisol, which helps regulate inflammation and stress responses.
This means chiropractic care not only addresses mechanical pain but also has systemic effects on inflammation and stress levels.
Chiropractic adjustments do more than relieve pain—they also support circulation and fluid movement in the body:
✅ Increased Blood Flow & Oxygenation – Spinal manipulation enhances microcirculation in spinal muscles and soft tissues, promoting healing and recovery.
✅ Enhanced Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Circulation – Some research suggests that spinal adjustments improve CSF flow, which may benefit cervicogenic headaches and neurological health.
For patients suffering from tension headaches or poor circulation, spinal adjustments may offer a natural, effective treatment option.
5. Psychosocial Benefits: The Mind-Body Connection
Pain isn’t just physical—it also affects our mental and emotional well-being. HVLA adjustments help address this by:
✅ Enhancing the Placebo & Expectation Effect – A patient’s belief in the effectiveness of spinal manipulation can amplify pain relief through psychological and neurobiological pathways.
✅ Reducing Fear-Avoidance Behavior – When patients experience pain relief after an adjustment, they become more confident in movement, helping to prevent chronic pain syndromes.
The psychological side of chiropractic care is just as important as the physical benefits. If you want to learn how to better support your patients, check out this guide for actionable strategies.
When it comes to non-surgical and non-pharmacological treatments for musculoskeletal conditions, HVLA spinal manipulation is one of the most effective interventions available. By targeting biomechanical, neurological, neurochemical, and vascular pathways, this technique provides comprehensive relief for conditions such as:
✔️ Low back pain ✔️ Neck pain ✔️ Sciatica ✔️ Headaches & migraines ✔️ Joint stiffness & restricted movement
If you’re experiencing pain or movement limitations, a chiropractic adjustment could be the key to unlocking relief. Consult with a licensed chiropractor today to restore function, reduce pain, and enhance your overall well-being!
If you’re experiencing cervicalor lumbar spine pain, chiropractic care can be a highly effective and beneficial treatment. If you haven’t yet explored chiropractic care for pain relief, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment. Call us today or book online to see Dr. Sikorsky and take the first step toward improved mobility and lasting relief!
References
1. Alanazi, M. S., Degenhardt, B., Kelley-Franklin, G., Cox, J. M., Lipke, L., & Reed, W. R. (2025). Neuromuscular Response to High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude Spinal Manipulation—An Overview. Medicina, 61(2), 187.
2. César Fernández-de-las-Peñas, Cristina Alonso-Blanco, Joshua A. Cleland, Cleofás Rodríguez-Blanco, Francisco Alburquerque-Sendín, Changes in Pressure Pain Thresholds Over C5-C6 Zygapophyseal Joint After a Cervicothoracic Junction Manipulation in Healthy Subjects, Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, Volume 31, Issue 5, 2008, Pages 332-337
3. Chinonso Vincent Nweke (2023). Joint Mobilization and Its Resultant Effects. Cross Current Int J Med Biosci, 5(3), 72-77.
How Inflammation, Insulin Resistance, and Obesity Interact: A Chiropractic Perspective
In recent years, severe obesity has been increasingly linked to chronic inflammation and insulin resistance (IR), two conditions that elevate the risks of mortality and cancer. However, new research from the UK Biobank sheds light on how lifestyle choices can mitigate these risks, offering hope for better health outcomes.
The Triple Threat: Obesity, Inflammation, and Insulin resistance (IR)
Severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35) often coexists with systemic inflammation and insulin resistance, creating a dangerous combination for long-term health. According to the study:
Inflammation (measured by markers like C-reactive protein) and IR significantly increase the risks of all-cause mortality and cancer.
When combined with severe obesity, these factors amplify health risks even further, highlighting the importance of addressing them simultaneously.
Key Findings: The Role of Lifestyle
One promising aspect of the study was its focus on lifestyle modifications. Participants who adhered to healthier habits saw significantly reduced risks, even when battling severe obesity, inflammation, and IR. These habits included:
Regular Physical Activity Engaging in moderate-to-vigorous exercise weekly helps lower inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity.
Balanced Diet Consuming whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins while avoiding processed foods and sugary beverages combats obesity and IR.
Avoiding Tobacco and Alcohol These substances exacerbate inflammation and metabolic stress, making lifestyle adjustments critical.
The study showed that those with favorable lifestyles had dramatically lower mortality and cancer risks compared to individuals with unhealthy habits.
What This Means for Chiropractic Care
Chiropractors play a crucial role in promoting holistic health. By addressing musculoskeletal issues and guiding patients toward healthier lifestyles, chiropractors can help reduce inflammation and encourage sustainable weight management. Key takeaways include:
Encouraging Movement: Regular exercise not only improves physical alignment but also lowers inflammation and boosts metabolic health.
Dietary Guidance: Educating patients about anti-inflammatory diets can complement chiropractic treatments.
Holistic Wellness: Focusing on overall health, including stress management and quality sleep, enhances the body’s ability to combat inflammation and IR.
Final Thoughts
The findings from the UK Biobank underscore the powerful impact of lifestyle choices on mitigating the risks associated with obesity, inflammation, and IR. By integrating these insights into chiropractic care, practitioners can help patients achieve better health outcomes and prevent chronic diseases. As always, small, sustainable changes can lead to a lifetime of improved well-being.
The Hidden Costs of Convenience: How Ultra-Processed Foods Impact Childhood Obesity
In today’s fast-paced world, ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have become a staple in many households. Designed for convenience, these foods often come packed with preservatives, added sugars, saturated fats, and salt to make them more appealing and easy to consume. While they save time and effort, UPFs are often lacking in essential nutrients and may come with hidden health risks. This article explores the connection between the widespread consumption of UPFs and the alarming rise in childhood obesity, emphasizing the need for preventive measures to protect children’s health.
The Problem with Ultra-Processed Foods Ultra-processed foods undergo extensive industrial processing, which often strips them of their natural nutrients. To enhance flavor and shelf-life, manufacturers add various ingredients, including artificial flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives. While these enhancements make UPFs tasty and convenient, they’re often laden with unhealthy components like:
High levels of sugar
Saturated fats
Excessive salt
These ingredients not only contribute to overconsumption but also displace healthier, nutrient-dense foods from children’s diets.
The Link Between UPFs and Childhood Obesity Recent studies have highlighted a concerning relationship between UPF consumption and obesity in children and adolescents. Key findings include:
Increased Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist Circumference (WC): Children who consume high quantities of UPFs tend to have higher BMI and WC measurements, both of which are indicators of obesity.
Abnormal Metabolic Parameters: Elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides, fasting plasma glucose, and insulin resistance have been observed in children with diets rich in UPFs.
These metabolic disruptions can pave the way for long-term health issues, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other obesity-related complications.
Why Are UPFs So Prevalent? Several societal and economic factors drive the overconsumption of UPFs:
Affordability: UPFs are often cheaper than whole, unprocessed foods, making them an attractive option for families on tight budgets.
Accessibility: These foods are readily available in supermarkets, vending machines, and convenience stores.
Advertising: Aggressive marketing campaigns, often targeted at children, make UPFs more desirable.
Socioeconomic Status: Families with lower socioeconomic or parental educational status may lack the resources or knowledge to prioritize healthier food choices.
Together, these factors create a cycle of dependency on UPFs, making it difficult to shift towards healthier eating habits.
Conclusion Ultra-processed foods are more than just a convenient choice; they represent a growing health challenge, particularly for children. The link between UPFs and childhood obesity is clear, with troubling implications for metabolic health and long-term well-being. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach involving education, policy changes, and community support. By taking proactive steps, we can help reverse the obesity tide and ensure a healthier future for the next generation.
