An overview of Chiropractic Adjustment
A chiropractic adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation, is a procedure performed by trained chiropractors to apply controlled, sudden force to a spinal joint. This is done to improve spinal motion and enhance physical function. Chiropractic adjustments are typically performed to alleviate low back pain, neck pain, and headaches.
What is Chiropractic Adjustment used for?
Chiropractic adjustment is a procedure used to improve spinal motion and physical function. It is commonly sought for the treatment of low back pain, neck pain, and headaches. It involves trained specialists applying a controlled, sudden force to a spinal joint.
How to prepare for Chiropractic Adjustment?
No special preparation is required before a chiropractic adjustment. However, it's important to inform your chiropractor about any health conditions you may have, including severe osteoporosis, numbness, tingling, or loss of strength in an arm or leg, cancer in your spine, an increased risk of stroke, or a known bone abnormality in the upper neck. Your chiropractor will ask questions about your health history and perform a physical exam during your initial visit, and may also recommend other examinations or tests, such as X-rays, to ensure the adjustment is safe for you.
How is Chiropractic Adjustment conducted?
During a typical chiropractic adjustment, the patient is usually positioned lying facedown or on their back on a specially designed, padded chiropractic table. The chiropractor then uses their hands or a small instrument to apply a controlled, sudden force to a spinal joint, pushing it beyond its usual range of motion. This procedure, also known as spinal manipulation, aims to improve spinal motion and physical function. The chiropractor may use various techniques, including manual adjustment, manipulation of the spine using their hands, or the use of a small instrument. The chiropractor may also perform an examination and take X-rays to assess the patient's spine before performing the adjustment.
Understanding the report
Chiropractic adjustment results are interpreted based on the improvement in the patient's physical function and the relief of symptoms such as low back pain, neck pain, and headaches. The effectiveness of chiropractic adjustment varies from person to person, with some studies showing modest benefits for spine-related conditions. If a patient does not experience improvement after several weeks of treatments, chiropractic adjustment may not be the best option for them.
Limitations and Considerations
Limitations of the chiropractic adjustment test include the potential for rare but serious complications, such as herniated discs, nerve compression, and a certain type of stroke following neck manipulation. Additionally, chiropractic adjustment may not be suitable for people with certain conditions, such as severe osteoporosis, numbness or tingling in the limbs, cancer in the spine, or known bone abnormalities in the upper neck. It's important to consult with a licensed and trained chiropractor who can assess your individual health status and determine whether chiropractic adjustment is appropriate for you.