Chiropractic care can relieve pain caused by a wide range of health problems. It is a drug-free approach that can be extremely beneficial to those experiencing chronic neck and back pain. One of the most common and effective chiropractic treatments is spinal manipulation or manual therapy.
Spinal manipulation is a method of treatment in which a chiropractor, doctor of chiropractic or DC, skillfully applies a controlled force into a misaligned vertebrae of the spine (also called subluxation). A chiropractic adjustment may also be administered to the pelvic region to normalize the sacroiliac joints. The chiropractor will deliver the adjustment using either their hands or a specialized mechanical tool.
The main purpose of a chiropractic adjustment is to reposition joints and vertebrae that have become misaligned, which can be a primary cause of back and neck pain. Those who receive regular adjustments can reduce the frequency of visits to their doctor or health center for back pain, neck pain, headaches, and other conditions.
During a spinal adjustment, the chiropractor will apply a quick thrust to a joint with their hand or a mechanical tool. The sudden thrust can release pockets of air or bubbles within the joint fluid, creating a cracking sound that is completely normal. This is a result of the pressure of oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide being released as a result of a sudden change in the density of the joint fluid.
Some patients will experience a brief feeling of relief, while others may feel some discomfort for a short time as the surrounding muscles spasm in anticipation of the thrust. Typically, this is only for a moment and the pain should subside immediately after the adjustment is completed.
Most people seek a chiropractic adjustment to reduce back and neck pain. However, chiropractors perform a wide variety of other treatments to help with many different issues. They can perform soft-tissue therapy to ease tense muscles and stiff joints, provide massages, use heat or cold treatment, and perform joint bracing or taping (Kinesio taping). Some chiropractors offer nutritional counseling, exercise programs, and referrals to specialists in integrative medicine.
A spinal adjustment is a powerful and effective treatment for those who suffer from chronic back or neck pain. However, a regular adjustment can also be a preventative measure against common ailments like indigestion breakdowns from improper spinal alignment or arthritis that results from compressed nerves in the spine. With proper alignment, your body is better able to fight off bacterial and viral infections and heal from injuries. So if you’re ready to try something new and get a spinal adjustment, make an appointment with the best chiropractor in Atlanta, GA today. You can expect your first visit to last up to 30 minutes, and subsequent appointments to be less time consuming as you get accustomed to the treatment. Just be sure to research area practitioners and chiropractors before making an appointment so you know what to expect during your consultation and the first few sessions of chiropractic treatment.