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Between-group differences in resting-state functional connectivity within the brain’s extended triple-network following genuine and sham chiropractic adjustments: a quasi-experimental pilot trial

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Chiropractic research has traditionally focused on subjective, pain-related outcomes; however, emerging evidence suggests that chiropractic care may also influence neurophysiological functioning. This pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility of a neurophysiological assessment battery and explore differences in brain and autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses following genuine versus sham chiropractic adjustments. Methods: In this pilot quasi-experimental, sham-controlled trial, 30 adults received a single session of either genuine or sham instrument-assisted chiropractic care. Resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) and electrocardiography (ECG) were collected at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and one week later. Feasibility outcomes included study procedures and participant blinding. Exploratory outcomes included changes in EEG functional connectivity (FC) and heart rate variability (HRV). Results: The study protocol was feasible to implement, and participant blinding was successful. Compared with sham care, genuine chiropractic care was associated with increased resting-state FC within a broadly distributed cluster spanning cortical regions of the brain's extended triple-network, including the medial frontoparietal, dorsolateral frontoparietal, and mid-cingulo-insular networks, in the delta and theta frequency bands. No between-group differences were observed for HRV measures. Discussion: These findings suggest that genuine chiropractic adjustments may differentially influence resting-state functional connectivity within large-scale brain networks compared with sham care. Although no effects on HRV were observed, the neurophysiological findings support further investigation in a fully powered randomized controlled trial to confirm these effects and determine their clinical significance. Trial registration and funding: This trial was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05249530) and funded by Life University (Marietta, GA, USA).

Source: Frontiers in Human Neuroscience

DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2026.1984309

Authors: Stephanie Sullivan, Margaret Sliwka, Emily Drake, Tyson M. Perez

Institution: Life University

Language: English

Topic: Functional Brain Connectivity Studies

Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801