What Are Chiropractic Adjustments?

Chiropractors perform specific adjustments to assist the body in healing itself. These adjustments correct problems that often occur in the body called subluxations. Correcting subluxations distinguish chiropractors from all other healthcare professionals. Chiropractors are the only professionals trained to diagnose and correct subluxations.

What exactly are subluxations? These are misaligned joints in the body that are less than a complete dislocation. When joints become misaligned, they cause the body to lose proper function. When bones become misaligned, the delicate nerves that often surround the joint become irritated. This can be very painful and disrupt communication from the brain to the body. The brain controls every cell and organ in the body through the nerve system. Subluxations lead to disease and dysfunction in the body when the nerves become disrupted.

Chiropractors correct these subluxations by performing specific adjustments to realign the bones. They will do this by performing a quick thrust to the area of the subluxation. They do this with their hands or instruments that are specially designed for this. Chiropractors also use special tables that are designed to assist the adjustment.

What are the Side Effects of Chiropractic Treatment?
When a chiropractor performs an adjustment, it is often accompanied by an audible popping or cracking sound. This sound is gas that is released from the joint when it is adjusted. People are often surprised at first, but usually feel a relieving sensation with the adjustment.

For some, adjustments may be uncomfortable at first, especially if muscle spasms are present around the joint that is being treated. It is common for the muscles to be injured because of the misaligned joint. Adjustments may also be uncomfortable if the patient tenses up when they are adjusted.

What are the Benefits of Chiropractic Adjustments?