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Chiropractic Research

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Chiropractic Research Center?

An independent, non-profit online resource that publishes evidence-informed content about chiropractic care for a New Zealand audience. We are not a clinic -- we do not see patients or sell treatments. Our purpose is to help people understand what chiropractic care involves and what the published research says about it.

Who writes the content on this site?

Content is produced by a small team of New Zealand chiropractic professionals with clinical and research backgrounds. Every article is reviewed for accuracy against published evidence before it goes live. We do not accept sponsored content or paid placements.

Is chiropractic care covered by ACC in New Zealand?

Yes. Chiropractic treatment for injuries is funded through ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation). You do not need a GP referral -- you can go directly to a registered chiropractor. There is typically a surcharge above the ACC subsidy, which varies by practitioner. Our article on ACC and chiropractic care covers the details.

How do I find a registered chiropractor in New Zealand?

All practising chiropractors in New Zealand must be registered with the New Zealand Chiropractic Board. You can verify registration through the Board's public register. We cover the process and what to look for in our Patient Guides section.

Does chiropractic treatment actually work?

The evidence depends on the condition. For acute low back pain, spinal manipulation is recommended as a first-line treatment by major international clinical guidelines, including The Lancet (2018). For chronic conditions, evidence supports manual therapy combined with exercise. For some conditions, the evidence is limited or mixed -- and we say so clearly in our articles. We aim to present the research honestly, not to oversell.

Is chiropractic treatment safe?

For most people, chiropractic manipulation is considered safe when performed by a registered practitioner. Like any physical treatment, there are risks -- typically mild and temporary (soreness, stiffness). Serious adverse events are rare but documented. Our Research and Evidence section covers safety data from systematic reviews.

Can I suggest a topic for an article?

Absolutely. We welcome topic suggestions from both the public and health professionals. Email us at info@chiropracticresearch.ac.nz with your suggestion. We prioritise topics where there is published evidence to draw from and where a New Zealand audience would benefit from clear information.

Why does the site use an .ac.nz domain?

The .ac.nz domain reflects our commitment to research-grade rigour in everything we publish. We treat it as a standard to maintain -- every article is grounded in published evidence or professional consensus, and we are transparent about the limits of what is currently known.

Have a question not covered here? Get in touch and we will do our best to help.