What is a Chiropractic Adjustment?

Understanding a Chiropractic adjustment

The word "Chiropractic" comes from the Greek meaning "treatment by hand". Chiropractic adjusting is a highly skilled treatment performed by trained professionals. The chiropractor uses his or her hands to apply a very quick, precise, and safe amount of pressure directly to the affected area of your spine. During an adjustment you may hear a "popping sound" (cavitation) which occurs with the shifting of gas bubbles and fluid in the joint. The presence or "loudness" of this sound has little meaning and varies with each patient. Specific chiropractic adjustments will help return individual spinal bones to their proper motion and position. It focuses on the SOURCE of your pain and discomfort, not the symptoms. It is hands on treatment that works.

There are basically two types of dysfunctional joints: hypermobile joints, which have too much movement and may become unstable, and hypomobile joints, which are not mobile enough. The joints, which should be adjusted, are the hypomobile ones, as they are restricted. A joint can become hypomobile or "subluxated" due to excessive strain, physical, chemical, emotional stress on the body. When a joint is hypomobile, the joints above and below try to compensate for the lack of motion and inevitably become hyper mobile. When people crack their own joints, they are affecting the hypeRmobile joints, not the ones that really need it. Self-cracking is not healthy because it adds to the excessive motion of the hypermobile joints, decreases the stability of ligaments and grinds the joint.

A proper adjustment is given to a subluxated joint, with a quick thrust directed along the proper angle so the joint will not be irritated. The speed will eliminate the need for a lot of force and reduce the strain put on ligaments. Most people experience a sense of relief immediately after cavitation. This is because, after cavitation, there is a release of endorphins which are your body's natural painkillers. However, chiropractic adjustment is not just for back pain or neck pain. The goal of adjustments is not "chase" symptoms, but to remove the nerve interference and restore health and well-being to your body.

When you experience tightness or pain, stretching should be done. If 'cracking' occurs while stretching, don't worry. Stretching gently is healthy, but do not purposefully 'crack' your own joints.