If you’ve ever considered visiting a chiropractor, you’ve likely heard the term “spinal adjustment” mentioned. But what exactly is a spinal adjustment, and how does it benefit you? At ARET Chiropractic we have many techniques that can assist you with your goals. One of them being a spinal adjustment.
What is a Spinal Adjustment?
A spinal adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation, is a hands-on technique that we use to improve movement in certain segments of the spine. Assisting with movement and decreasing pain and discomfort and restoring normal joint function.
How Does a Spinal Adjustment Work?
During a spinal adjustment, we use a controlled, sudden movement to apply pressure to specific joints in the spine. This force is carefully targeted based on the patient’s condition and the chiropractor’s assessment. The adjustment’s aim is to assist with getting stiff joints moving better, reducing nerve irritation, decreasing any muscle spasm to name a few.
What is the popping sound?
Many patients report hearing a popping sound during the adjustment. This is caused by the release of gas (nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide) from the joints and is similar to the sound heard when cracking your knuckles.
In some cases it is normal to have some discomfort after experiencing a spinal adjustment. particularly when joints have been stiff for a long periods of time. This is similar to when you haven’t exercised in a long time (missing leg day!!) and you start up again and feel that delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
Common Reasons for a Spinal Adjustment:
– Back Pain: One of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care is to address back pain, whether due to injury or poor posture.
– Neck Pain: Spinal adjustments can relieve tension and pain in the neck, especially for those who spend long hours sitting or working at a desk.
– Headaches and Migraines: pressure in the upper spine can contribute to headaches and migraines, and spinal adjustments may help alleviate these symptoms.
– Sciatica: Sciatic nerve pain, which radiates from the lower back down the legs, can often be relieved with targeted spinal adjustments.
The Benefits of Spinal Adjustments
Chiropractic spinal adjustments are designed to support the body’s natural healing process by improving movement within the joint.
– Pain Relief: By restoring proper joint function, spinal adjustments can help temporarily reduce pain and whether it’s from acute injuries or chronic conditions like arthritis.
– Improved Mobility: Adjustments can increase the range of motion in your spine and joints, helping you move more freely and comfortably.
– Faster Recovery from Injuries: Spinal adjustments, combined with hands on soft tissue therapy, dry needling, exercise prescription, may help accelerate recovery from sports injuries, car accidents, or other traumas.
Is a Spinal Adjustment Right for You?
While many people experience significant benefits from spinal adjustments, it’s essential for us to complete our history and physical examination first. If we assess you and discuss that adjustment might not be suitable for you or if its not your preference we have other techniques that can assist you with your goals for example Joint Mobilisation.
Book your consultation online today.