Chiropractors believe that good health is determined by a healthy nervous system, particularly a healthy spinal column.
Occasionally, vertebrae become misaligned and place pressure on the nerves exiting the spinal cord. The misalignment of a vertebra is called a chiropractic subluxation. When subluxations occur, chiropractors use specific techniques to return the vertebrae into their proper positions or mobilize them so they can move freely. These techniques are called spinal manipulations or adjustments. During an adjustment, the vertebra is freed from the misaligned position and returned to the proper position in the spinal column. Once performed, the adjustment allows the body to heal and maintain homeostasis.
Chiropractors are trained in a variety of adjustment techniques. Some are done by hand; some require the use of specialized instruments. Since each patient is different, your chiropractor will choose the best technique for your condition. However, feel free to ask the chiropractor which technique he or she will be doing and how it will be done.
Some common adjustment techniques used by chiropractors include the following:
• Toggle Drop - this is when the chiropractor, using crossed hands, presses down firmly on a particular area of the spine. Then, with a quick and precise thrust, the chiropractor adjusts the spine. This is done to improve mobility in the vertebral joints.
• Motion Palpation - this hand-on procedure is done to determine if your vertebrae are moving freely in their normal planes of motion.
• Lumbar Side Posture - the chiropractor positions the patient on his or her side, then applies a quick and precise thrust to the misaligned vertebra, returning it to its proper position.
• Release Work - the chiropractor applies gentle pressure using his or her fingertips to separate the vertebrae and muscular adhesions.
• Table adjustments - The patient lies on a special table with a "drop piece". The chiropractor applies a quick thrust at the same time the table drops. The dropping of the table allows for a lighter adjustment without the twisting positions that can accompany the manual adjustment.
• Instrument adjustments - often the gentlest methods of adjusting the spine. The patient lies on the table face down while the chiropractor uses a string-loaded activator instrument to perform the adjustment. This technique is often used to perform adjustments on animals as well.
Keep in mind that you may need to return to the chiropractor's office for additional adjustments before you experience complete relief from your symptoms.
Common Questions About Chiropractic Adjustments
Do adjustments hurt?
For most patients, chiropractic adjustments are painless. Some patients who are new to chiropractic treatments may involuntarily stiffen or resist the adjustment and feel a small amount of discomfort until they are able to relax during treatment. In addition, mild discomfort may be felt if the patient has had a recent trauma, such as whiplash, due to inflammation. However, many patients report a feeling of relief, calmness, and a sense of well being after the adjustment; others feel improved mobility.
What is the noise I hear during an adjustment?
When your vertebrae are adjusted, tiny pockets of gas are released from the joints, making a "popping" noise. It's the same sound you hear when you pop your knuckles. Not all patients hear this noise. It's not a sign that the adjustment is working or not working.
Are adjustments safe?
Dozens of research studies have documented the safety and effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments. They are significantly safer than taking medications or having spine surgery. Research shows complications from chiropractic adjustments are rare and random.
Can I adjust myself?
No. This is dangerous. Chiropractic adjustments need to be performed by a skilled professional.
Can other types of professionals also perform adjustments?
Yes. Some osteopaths (DOs) perform these techniques (but this is rare these days). However, Chiropractors perform 95% of all adjustments in the world. Be careful of physical therapists, massage therapists, or "healers" who make similar claims but do not have the credentials, qualifications, and experience of a chiropractor.
What types of conditions do chiropractors use adjustments for?
Chiropractic adjustments (a precise method of restoring proper movement) are very useful in correcting:• Pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, back, arms, hands, chest, abdomen, hips, legs, feet.
• Certain types of headaches.
• Sciatica.
• Injuries and trauma to the body such as whiplash.
• Scoliosis.
• Leg pain and nerve disorders.
• Sports injuries and most muscular skeletal injuries such as tennis elbow, strained muscles, and sprained joints and ligaments.
• Bursitis and Tendonitis (conditions involving inflammation of soft tissues).
• Repetitive strain disorders such as carpal tunnel.
• Fibromyalgia (chronic muscle pain and stiffness).
• Arthritis
What if I need surgery?
Chiropractors believe and emphasize that the first response in most illnesses and injuries should be conservative care. However, chiropractors are also trained to recognize when an injury is outside of their scope of practice and will refer patients to the appropriate medical specialist if necessary.