Chiropractic Care for HIV

(HIV Trial)

This trial explores whether chiropractic care can improve the quality of life for people living with HIV. Participants will either receive weekly chiropractic treatments or continue their usual HIV medication without additional treatment. The researchers aim to determine if chiropractic care can enhance well-being and immune health. Eligible participants must have a confirmed HIV diagnosis, be over 18, and be willing to complete surveys and share lab results. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding alternative therapies for HIV.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It is best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your healthcare provider.

Previous studies have shown chiropractic care to be a generally safe treatment option. Research indicates that it can lead to positive health outcomes without major side effects. One report found that chiropractic patients had 60% fewer hospital visits and 62% fewer surgeries, suggesting that the treatment is well-tolerated.

Unlike the standard of care for HIV, which involves anti-retroviral therapy (ART) to manage the virus, chiropractic care offers a unique approach by focusing on the body's musculoskeletal system. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it may enhance the overall well-being of individuals with HIV by potentially reducing stress and improving immune function through spinal adjustments. This complementary approach could provide additional benefits beyond viral suppression, which is a new avenue in HIV management.

Research suggests that chiropractic care might help people with HIV by strengthening their immune system. Some studies indicate that people receiving chiropractic care have immune systems that function 200% more effectively compared to those who do not receive this care. Specifically, chiropractic care has been linked to up to a 48% increase in CD4 cells, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system in people with HIV. Participants in this trial will either receive chiropractic care alongside their physician-prescribed anti-retroviral therapy (ART) or continue with ART alone without chiropractic care. While these findings are encouraging, experts have not reached a consensus on the exact effect of chiropractic adjustments on the immune system.¹²⁶⁷⁸