We’ve Moved! Find us just around the corner at 3 Thackeray Street. Click here for Directions!

From Research to Practice: Translating Neurophysiology Findings into Your First Visit

Chiropractic adjustments influence how the brain processes sensory and motor information. Research supports neurological as well as mechanical benefits from spinal care. Functional assessments and evidence-informed adjustments help integrate these findings into clinical practice. The first visit establishes a framework for measurable improvement in body awareness and control.

Original Study Title:

Not based on a single paper — synthesises key findings from: The Contemporary Model of Vertebral Motor Control and Neuromuscular Function (2021) Alterations in Cortical and Cerebellar Sensorimotor Processing Following Spinal Manipulation (2016) Neuroplastic Responses to Chiropractic Care: The Impact on Pain, Mood, Sleep, and Quality of Life (2024)

Authors:

Heidi Haavik; Imran Khan Niazi; Kelly Holt; Bernadette Murphy; Robert J. Trager

Journal:

Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, Frontiers in Neuroscience, Brain Sciences

Publication Year:

20162024
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8416873/ https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnins.2016.00430/full https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/14/11/1124 Haavik, H., Niazi, I. K., Holt, K., Murphy, B., & Trager, R. J. (2016–2024). Selected works on the neurophysiological effects of spinal manipulation and chiropractic care. Frontiers in Neuroscience; Chiropractic & Manual Therapies; Brain Sciences.

Bringing neuroscience into everyday chiropractic care

Modern chiropractic practice is increasingly guided by neurophysiological research showing how spinal adjustments influence the brain and nervous system. The goal is to translate these scientific findings into practical, patient-centred care that improves movement, function, and wellbeing from the very first visit.

What the science tells us

  • Studies by Haavik and colleagues demonstrate that spinal adjustments can alter brain activity — particularly in areas responsible for sensorimotor integration, balance, and coordination.
  • Research also shows that dysfunctional spinal segments send distorted sensory input to the brain, affecting how it controls posture and movement.
  • Adjustments help restore normal feedback between the spine and central nervous system, leading to improved motor control, reaction time, and stability.

What this means for your first visit

When you come in for your initial consultation, we’re not just looking at where it hurts — we’re analysing how your spine and nervous system are communicating. This includes:

  • Movement and posture assessments to identify areas of reduced control or asymmetry.
  • Neurological testing (balance, reflexes, coordination) to evaluate how your brain and body are interacting.
  • A clear plan to restore spinal function and enhance neural communication through specific chiropractic adjustments.

Integrating the evidence

Our approach is inspired by research showing that spinal care can influence both mechanical and neurological function. This evidence-informed model means we can deliver more predictable, measurable results — from pain relief to better movement and body awareness.

How this sets the tone for care

  • We prioritise function over symptoms — improving how your system works, not just how it feels.
  • Each adjustment builds on previous changes, encouraging lasting neuroplastic improvements.
  • We measure progress through objective function testing (balance, mobility, strength).

Read related studies:


Note: This summary bridges scientific research with practical chiropractic application. It is for educational purposes only and does not represent medical or diagnostic claims.

The information on this page summarises independent, peer-reviewed research conducted by external scientists. It is provided for educational purposes only and does not imply that chiropractic care treats or cures any medical condition. Chiropractic services at this clinic are provided within the scope of practice defined by the Chiropractic Board of New Zealand.