What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment involves using hands or a small instrument to apply a controlled and quick force into a joint. If the chiropractic adjustment is performed on the spine, it may be termed spinal manipulation. Adjustments can improve range of motion, decrease pain, and improve joint function.
Does a “popping sound” mean an adjustment is successful?
During an adjustment you may or may not hear a ”popping” sound. Adjustments sound similar to “cracking your knuckles”. Presence of the popping sound does not determine success of treatment. The same benefits of an adjustment occur regardless of if there is a sound present or not.
Are chiropractic adjustments painful?
In general, joint manipulation is not painful. If the joint is extra stiff, there may be some mild soreness or irritation right before or after the adjustment. There should be no moderate-severe pain during an adjustment.
Spinal and Extra-Spinal Joint Manipulation Benefits
The goal of treatment is to restore motion into joints that are not moving well. Other benefits of a chiropractic adjustment include improved range of motion, decrease in pain, and improved joint function.
How to have chiropractic treatment last
Most benefits that are associated with a chiropractic adjustment last 2-5 days. For long-term benefits additional services should be provided. One of the main additional treatments we use at Chiros in Motion is therapeutic exercise. These exercises provide further joint stability to help the benefits of adjustments last.
After you receive chiropractic care it is recommended to drink water and avoid sitting on soft surfaces such as a couch or cushioned seats. Doing these two things will decrease soreness from an adjustment later that day.
Chiropractic side effects
The most common side effect is soreness and discomfort. Most side effects disappear a day or two after treatment. Here is a prospective study discussing the common and uncommon side effects of chiropractic manipulations.