Chiropractic care has brought relief to millions struggling with back and neck pain, but as with any hands-on treatment, choosing the right provider is critical. One woman’s story is a sobering reminder of why vetting your chiropractor matters.
Carissa Klundt, a 41-year-old wellness advocate from Las Vegas, says her life was turned upside down after a routine chiropractic visit in 2022. Seeking relief from back pain following breast implant removal surgery, she had visited her chiropractor several times without incident. But during a fourth visit, when a substitute practitioner took over, an adjustment to her neck left her in immediate pain.
“As soon as it happened, I knew something was wrong,” Klundt told PEOPLE. She later developed nausea, vision disturbances, and fainting spells. A CT scan revealed a vertebral artery dissection (VAD)—a tear in a major artery supplying blood to the brain. Left untreated, this condition can lead to stroke or death.
Klundt was rushed to the ICU, where doctors told her the situation could have been fatal. Her recovery was slow and painful. “I was sleeping 17 hours a day, couldn’t walk alone, and lived in constant pain,” she said. Three years later, she still suffers lingering effects and has had to give up skiing, roller coasters, and teaching fitness classes.
“I don’t want to scare people away from chiropractic care,” she emphasized. “But people need to know the risks. You have to be very careful about who you let work on your spine.”
Chiropractic treatment can be safe and effective, but not all practitioners are equal. Always verify credentials, seek referrals, and inquire about experience with specific adjustments before commencing care. Your spine—and your life—may depend on it.
