Patient questions / Northern Kentucky
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Patient education · Walton & Covington, Kentucky

When should you not get adjusted by a chiropractor?

Triple Crown Chiropractic · Published November 4, 2026 · 2 min read

Sometimes the right next step isn’t an adjustment.

Do not proceed with an adjustment when serious injury, infection, spinal instability, progressive neurological problems or a vascular emergency is suspected. Certain health conditions can require avoiding or modifying specific techniques. Share your full history and seek an individualized assessment; being unsuitable for one technique does not establish that all care is unsafe.

Let’s look at what matters

Situations that need a different first step

Recent significant trauma, new limb weakness, trouble walking, fever with severe neck stiffness or sudden stroke-like symptoms should be evaluated before routine treatment. A suspected fracture or artery problem is not something to test with an adjustment.

Osteoporosis, cancer involving bone, previous surgery, inflammatory disease and blood-thinning medicines can affect treatment decisions. These are reasons for careful assessment, not a complete online list of absolute contraindications.

Consent and technique choice matter

Ask what technique is proposed and what risks apply to your health history. Cervical thrust manipulation is not identical to gentle mobilization or exercise, and each intervention requires a suitable clinical reason.

You can say no, ask for alternatives or stop treatment. If a clinician cannot explain why a technique is appropriate, it is reasonable to pause and seek clarification or another opinion.

What this means in Walton and Covington

Before traveling to Walton from Verona or Crittenden, or to Covington from Newport, Bellevue or Cincinnati, tell the office about recent injuries or major changes in health. Bring surgical and imaging reports you already have. Dr. Erik Simms should have the relevant information before a treatment decision; appointment convenience does not override safety.

Explore our Walton office and Covington office for current hours, directions and contact details. These are our two offices; nearby communities are service areas, not additional locations.

Practical next steps

  • Bring an accurate medication and medical-history list.
  • Disclose surgery, bone disease and recent injuries.
  • Ask which options avoid a technique you are not comfortable receiving.

Read our neck-pain care overview, meet Dr. Erik Simms, DC, and use the new-patient guide to prepare questions before your appointment.

Talk with Dr. Erik Simms about your next step

For non-emergency concerns, request an evaluation at Triple Crown Chiropractic. Discuss your symptoms, goals and whether chiropractic care is suitable before deciding on treatment.

Walton, KY

11053 Clay Dr, Walton, KY 41094

(859) 918-6868

Covington, KY

409 W 6th St, Covington, KY 41011

(859) 307-8779
Request an appointment

Sources and further reading

General educational information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Outcomes and appropriate care vary. For sudden neurological symptoms or another medical emergency, call 911. Sources consulted November 4, 2026.