Chiropractic adjustment is a procedure that involves chiropractors using small instruments or their hands to apply a controlled, sudden force to spinal joints. Also known as spinal manipulation, this procedure’s primary goal is to improve the body’s physical function and spinal motion.
Why is Chiropractic Adjustment Done?
Chiropractic adjustment is used to treat a plethora of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. It helps treat neck pain, lower back pain, muscle pains, headaches, and pain in other body joints.
How to Prepare for Chiropractic Adjustment
Our doctors determine if chiropractic adjustment will help improve your current condition through various tests, including neurological evaluations, pharmacogenetic testing, X-rays, and more. In addition, we check if there is no special preparation required for your procedure.
What to Expect
During the initial consultation, our chiropractor will analyze your medical history. You will be asked questions regarding your health, including medications you are currently using. A physical examination will then be carried out – with our chiropractor paying close attention to the spine. Depending on your condition, we may recommend lab tests, X-rays, or other diagnostic imaging tests.
Once a physical exam is completed, we begin the chiropractic adjustment procedure. We may ask you to change positions to effectively treat affected areas. In most cases, you will lie face down on a padded chiropractic table. Our chiropractor will then use his/her hands or a special tool to apply a controlled, sudden force to a specific joint, pushing it beyond its typical range of motion. As we move your joints during treatment, you may hear cracking and popping sounds – which should not scare you at all!
What are the Results of Chiropractic Adjustment?
Research suggests that chiropractic adjustment is one of the safest and most effective treatments for lower back pain. Some studies show that spinal manipulation may also help alleviate headaches and effectively treat other spinal-related conditions such as neck pain.
Are there any Risks Associated with Chiropractic Adjustment?
Chiropractic adjustment is safe as long as it is performed by a specialist who is trained, skilled, experienced, and licensed to provide chiropractic care. Complications associated with chiropractic adjustment are rare but may include:
- A particular type of stroke after neck manipulation.
- Compression of nerves in the lower spinal column.
- Worsening of an existing disk herniation or developing a herniated disk.
When not to Seek Chiropractic Adjustment
Avoid undergoing chiropractic adjustment if you have:
- Cancer in the spine
- Severe osteoporosis
- Bone abnormality in the upper neck
- An increased risk of stroke
- Tingling, loss of strength, or numbness in legs or arms.
Chiropractic adjustment can be an effective form of treatment for people of all ages. Depending on the patient, the force and intensity of treatment vary. Our professional chiropractors screen patients to ensure they are the right candidates for this procedure. If a chiropractic adjustment is too risky for an individual, we can recommend other pain management solutions.
