What New Research Says About Chiropractic Care: Insights for Patients in Islington
Chiropractic care continues to be one of the most sought-after non-invasive treatments for back pain, spinal discomfort, headaches, and musculoskeletal issues. But what does cutting-edge research say about its effects beyond symptom relief?
A pragmatic randomized controlled trial published in PLOS ONE in late 2025 has shed new light on how chiropractic spinal adjustments influence measurable physiological biomarkers—meaning changes that occur deep inside the body, not just in how a person feels.
Study Overview: Understanding the Science Behind Adjustments
Researchers conducted a 12-week trial comparing adults who received chiropractic spinal adjustments with those who received a sham (placebo) intervention. Participants had subclinical spinal pain, meaning they experienced recurring spinal discomfort but were not in active, high-level pain at the start of the study.
Key biomarkers were measured before and after the intervention, including:
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) – linked to neuroplasticity and central nervous system resilience
Cortisol — a hormone associated with stress response
Inflammatory markers — like interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)
Immune cell profiles
Major Findings: Chiropractic Care Influences Body Systems
After 12 weeks of chiropractic care, the study found statistically significant differences versus the control group in biological measures that are associated with long-term health mechanisms:
✔️ Increased BDNF levels, suggesting improved neuroplasticity support
✔️ Higher IL-6 levels, indicating an active inflammatory response (which may be part of healing)
✔️ Changes in cortisol levels, pointing to a modulation of the body’s stress response
✔️ Lower TNF-α levels at later follow-up in the chiropractic group — associated with reduced chronic inflammation
These changes were observed beyond reported pain relief and suggest that chiropractic adjustments may have systemic effects that extend into neurophysiological processes.
Why This Matters for Patients in Islington
At Angel Chiropractic in Islington, we focus on more than just symptom management — we aim to support your overall functional health. This recent research adds to the evidence that chiropractic care:
May assist in regulating stress-related hormones
Could support neural health and adaptive bodily responses
Plays a role in inflammation regulation, which is implicated in chronic pain and aging
This means that people considering chiropractic care for back or neck pain, headaches, stiffness or general spinal health might also be engaging mechanisms inside the body that support long-term wellbeing.
What Patients Should Know Before Booking
This study does not suggest that chiropractic care is a cure-all, nor does it replace medical advice. Instead, it provides scientific context that supports the holistic role of chiropractic adjustments when delivered by trained professionals. As always:
Care is personalized to your clinical presentation
Chiropractic adjustments are one component of a patient’s overall care plan
Biomarker changes are one piece of a complex physiological picture
If you struggle with daily discomfort, stiffness, or want to explore how chiropractic care might benefit both your pain symptoms and underlying physiology, a consultation with an experienced chiropractor is the first step.
Book Your Consultation at Angel Chiropractic (Islington)
Our team at Angel Chiropractic, Islington Village, London offers tailored chiropractic assessments and spinal adjustment plans for adults. Whether you’re dealing with ongoing back pain, headaches, or just want to optimise your spinal health, we can help you understand your body and begin a care plan that fits your goals.
📞 Call today on 02072882999 to book your assessment or learn more about how chiropractic care can make a difference. Or click here for a new patient introductory discount!