What Is a Chiropractic Adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a skilled, hands-on technique that applies a controlled force to a specific joint to improve its motion. When joints move poorly, surrounding muscles can tighten and everyday movements can become uncomfortable. Adjustments aim to restore more normal joint movement, which for many patients translates into less stiffness and better function.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Adjustments?
Patients who commonly benefit from chiropractic adjustments include those with neck or back pain, stiffness from prolonged sitting, joint discomfort and injuries from accidents or sports. Whether an adjustment is appropriate for you is determined by an evaluation of your history, symptoms and movement. Adjustment techniques are not appropriate for every condition or every health history, which is why evaluation comes first.
How Are Adjustments Performed?
Techniques vary by region and patient. The doctor may use a quick, low-force thrust with the hands, a slower mobilization, or an instrument-assisted or drop-table technique depending on the joint and your comfort. Table positions are selected so the technique is both effective and comfortable. You can ask questions at any time and request a change in technique or force at any point during care.
What Can Adjustments Be Used For?
- Neck and back discomfort with reduced mobility
- Joint stiffness from desk work, driving or sedentary routines
- Musculoskeletal strain after a car accident
- Mild-to-moderate pain that has not responded to rest or home care
- Support before or alongside rehabilitation and exercise
When Are Adjustments Not Appropriate?
Adjustments are not right for everyone. Conditions such as severe osteoporosis, certain fractures, inflammatory joint conditions or some neurological problems may mean adjustment is not appropriate. The evaluation includes asking about your health history so these situations can be identified before any treatment is recommended.
What Should You Expect on Your First Visit?
Your first visit includes a discussion of your symptoms and goals, an examination of your posture and range of motion, and a clear explanation of the findings. If an adjustment is recommended, it will be demonstrated and explained before it is performed, and your comfort will guide the technique and force used.
Adjustments at the clinic are often combined with supportive therapies such as shockwave therapy, cold laser therapy and rehabilitation exercise, depending on what the evaluation supports.