Adjustments

What’s An Adjustment?

Chiropractic adjustments usually involve a quick thrust that helps add motion to spinal joints that aren’t moving right.  Some methods use the doctor’s hands, an instrument, a special table or the force of gravity.  There are many ways to adjust the spine.

Are Chiropractic Adjustments Safe?

Yes.  A New Zealand government study found that adjustments are “remarkably safe.”  By avoiding drugs and risky surgery, chiropractic care enjoys an excellent track record.  A thorough exam can identify the rare person for whom chiropractic care might be unsuited.  Compare the statistics.  Adjustments are about 100 times safer than taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Will Adjustments Make My Spine Too Loose?

No.  Only the spinal joints that are “locked up” receive adjustments.  This allows weakened muscles and ligaments to stabilize and heal.

Can The Bones Move Too Much?

Highly unlikely. A chiropractic adjustment is special.  It has the right amount of energy, delivered to an exact spot, at a precise angle, at the right time. The intent is to get a “stuck” spinal joint moving again, helping reduce nerve interference. Years of training, practice and experience make chiropractic adjustments specific and safe.

What Makes The Sound During The Adjustment?

Lubricating fluids separate the bones of each spinal joint.  Some adjusting methods can produce a sound when the gas and fluids in the joint shift.  It’s much like opening a bottle of champagne or removing a suction cup.  The sound is interesting, but it isn’t a guide to the quality or value of the adjustment.

Are All Patients Adjusted The Same Way?

No.  Each patient’s spine and care plan are unique.  With 24 moving bones in the spine, each of which can move in seven different directions, we see a variety of spinal patterns.  Each patient’s care is custom-tailored for their age, condition and health goals.

Can I Adjust Myself?

No.  Some people can make their joints “pop,” but that’s not an adjustment!  Worse, damage can occur by mobilizing a joint with weakened muscles and ligaments.  Adjustments are specific and take years to master.  Even your chiropractor doctor must consult a colleague to benefit from chiropractic care.

How Many Adjustments Will I Need?

The number of adjustments varies with each patient and their individual health goals.  Many patients sense progress within a week or two of frequent visits.  Visits become less often as your spine stabilizes.  In chronic cases, complete healing can take months or even years.

Why Do Newborns Get Adjustments?

Even today’s “natural” childbirth methods can affect an infant’s spine.  Preliminary studies suggested that colic, unusual crying, poor appetite, ear infections or erratic sleeping habits can be signs of spinal distress.  Pediatric adjustments are gentle.  Knowing exactly where to adjust, the doctor applies more pressure than you’d use to test the ripeness of a tomato.