CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTMENT
What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a therapeutic technique used by chiropractors to manipulate the vertabrae in the spine. A chiropractic adjustment typically involves the chiropractor applying short and sudden force to the vertebrae. The objective of the procedure is to improve range of motion and reduce pain.
When is a chiropractic adjustment recommended?
Chiropractic adjustments can be recommended for many reasons, but the most common are:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Migraines headaches related to neck pain
- Whiplash
- Joint pain in legs, arms, and shoulders
- Neck a spine injuries
- Improve range of motion and function
- Reduce nerve irritability
What to expect during and after a procedure?
Upon the first visit, your chiropractor will discuss your medical history and do a physical exam. You may have diagnostic treatment such as x-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to help pinpoint exactly what is causing the problem. The chiropractor can then create a special treatment plan based on your needs. Every appointment is unique and depends on the location of the injury and how many regions of the spine need to be worked on. During treatment patients will usually lay down on a padded chiropractic table. It is common to hear popping and cracking noises coming from the joints during the procedure. After the procedure, some patients may have slight soreness or may feel tired, but overall the injury will feel better.
How long does it take to work?
In order for chiropractic adjustments to be effective, a chiropractor will design a specific treatment program to ensure the pain goes away and does not come back. Generally, it takes 1 to 4 weeks for patients to feel better after starting their program. This is dependent on how severe the injury is and the patient’s pain tolerance, but most people report to feel 40% to 80% better within the first few weeks. Treatment plans vary depending on the patient, but it is common for a chiropractor to recommend this procedure every 2 to 4 weeks.
Is a chiropractic adjustment safe?
Chiropractic adjustments are safe when performed by someone who is trained and licensed to deliver such care. As a result, serious complications linked to chiropractic adjustments are rare, and a chiropractor can determine who can benefit from this procedure.
What are the benefits of chiropractic adjustments?
With chiropractic adjustments comes many benefits aside from alleviating pain. Some of the benefits include:
- Improving joint mobility
- Improving muscle contractility and strength
- Decreasing inflammation
- Speeding up recovery process
- Improving circulation by taking stagnant blood out and bringing new blood in
- Improving nerve functions
- Increasing energy and improving sleep
Overall, a patient’s disposition will improve by chiropractic adjustments because patients will no longer feel they are suffering from their injury.
Are there any restrictions after a chiropractic adjustment?
Generally, there are no restrictions after treatment, however, patients will want to avoid doing what caused the injury in the first place. In addition, you chiropractor may recommend other types of therapy to help promote healing after a session. These may include:
- Doing special exercises and stretches
- Using ice or heat pads
- Using electrical muscle simulators
- Maintaining general health through proper nutrition and diet
- Ways to manage stress and relax muscles
How much do chiropractic adjustments cost?
The costs for chiropractic adjustments range depending on where you live, how many regions of the spine need care, and whether diagnostic tests are required. While each session generally ranges between $40 to $100, the best way to know is by contacting your chiropractor and scheduling an appointment.