What Counts as Chiropractic Malpractice in Illinois?

 Posted on November 05, 2025 in Medical Malpractice

Chiropractic adjustment videos are all over social media. They show people getting their backs cracked and walking away smiling. What those videos do not show are the risks. Chiropractors work on the spine and neck. These are two of the most delicate parts of the body. A single mistake can lead to nerve injuries, severe pain, paralysis, or even stroke.

Under Illinois law, chiropractors are licensed professionals who must meet certain standards when treating patients. They must use reasonable care, avoid risky or unnecessary procedures, and refer patients to medical doctors when appropriate. If a chiropractor ignores these responsibilities and a patient is harmed, it may be considered chiropractic malpractice. A skilled Springfield, IL medical malpractice lawyer can help you determine whether your injury was caused by negligence and explain your options.

What Are the Most Common Chiropractic Errors That Could Lead to Injuries?

Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to treat back and neck pain. Many patients claim that these procedures help them. However, if done wrong, they can cause damage that can last a lifetime. Even a small mistake can cause serious harm. Some of the most common chiropractic errors include:

• Performing spinal adjustments too forcefully, causing disc or nerve injuries

• Failing to recognize a medical condition that needs a doctor’s care

• Causing a stroke or artery tear during a neck adjustment

• Ignoring a patient’s medical history or warning signs

• Treating conditions outside a chiropractor’s professional scope

• Failing to get informed consent before performing a risky procedure

These mistakes can result in long-term pain, nerve damage, or permanent disability. We can work with medical experts to review your records and determine whether your chiropractor acted safely and followed professional standards.

How Do You Prove a Chiropractor Was Negligent?

To prove malpractice, you must show that the chiropractor did not meet the standard of care expected in their profession. This means showing that another trained chiropractor would have acted differently. Illinois law also requires a medical expert’s report before you can file a malpractice lawsuit. Under 735 ILCS 5/2-622, this report has to explain how the chiropractor’s care fell below accepted standards.

You will also need strong evidence. This might include treatment notes, imaging scans, and expert testimony. Medical malpractice is arguably one of the hardest personal injury claims to prove. However, an attorney can help you gather sufficient proof to show how your injuries were directly caused by the chiropractor’s actions. It takes careful investigation, but with experienced legal representation, it is possible.

What Damages Can You Recover From a Medical Malpractice Case?

If you can prove malpractice, you may have the chance to access financial compensation. That might include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the cost of future care. The exact amount depends on the extent of your injuries and how they affect your daily life. A lawyer is especially helpful in identifying all the recoverable losses, down to the emotional harm and future impact of your injuries.

Contact a Decatur, IL Medical Malpractice Attorney Today

If you were injured after chiropractic treatment, we can help you understand your legal options. At Kanoski Bresney, we are committed to standing up for patients harmed by professional negligence. Together, our team has over 100 years of combined experience representing injured clients across Illinois. Attorney Todd Bresney brings valuable insight from his past work with the Federal Trade Commission and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office.

We work together to hold careless providers accountable and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 888-826-8682 for a free consultation with our Springfield, IL medical malpractice lawyers.