What Your Chiropractor Wants You to Know About Spinal Manipulation

Spinal manipulation is a common therapy used by chiropractors that may offer patients immediate pain relief. Spinal manipulation is sometimes referred to as "chiropractic adjustments" or "spinal manipulation treatment." This treatment is a safe and efficient way to relieve pain from a variety of injuries and illnesses.

Most chiropractic methods aim to restore or improve joint function, with the overarching objectives of decreasing pain and treating joint inflammation. Some methods (such as spinal manipulation) are more aggressive, while others are gentler (spinal mobilization).

How chiropractic adjustment works

Traditional high-velocity low-amplitude (HVLA) thrusts and spinal manipulation are the most often utilized chiropractic techniques. The chiropractor will apply quick, precise bursts of force to any problematic joints in the spine during spinal manipulation while the body is positioned in a particular manner. The pressure frees up the accumulation of gas inside the joint, resulting in a popping sound. Although cavitation is the technical term for this popping sound, most individuals call it "cracking" their spine. Discharging gas bubbles from the joints alleviates the strain on the spine and induces a relaxing feeling.

Candidates for spinal manipulation

Anyone experiencing chronic pain who suffered an injury or has been in an accident can visit the chiropractor for spinal manipulation. However, the procedure is not recommended for patients with any of the following:

• High risk of stroke
• Severe osteoporosis
• Spinal instability
• Spinal cancer

Manipulation techniques used by chiropractors

Chiropractors customize treatment programs for each patient's unique requirements. Chiropractic treatment programs often include a combination of forceful and less forceful spinal adjustment methods at the same appointment or throughout therapy. Most patients need between six to ten appointments.

Some circumstances, such as osteoporosis, pathology, patient size, comfort, or choice, may demand a gentler technique known as spinal mobilization. Furthermore, some patients and physicians prefer moderate spine mobilization methods that do not entail body twisting or powerful thrusts.

As part of an overall treatment plan, many chiropractors may use adjuvant treatments like cold or heat and physical therapy modalities (such as electric stimulation, ultrasound, and so on). Patients should speak with their chiropractor about their problems and preferences since their job is to examine the appropriate treatment option thoroughly.

The benefits of spinal manipulation

Drug-free treatment: Spinal manipulation is an excellent alternative to pain medication when it comes to pain relief. The reason is that many pain relievers have the potential to produce adverse side effects, including addiction. Pain alleviation is achieved naturally with spinal manipulation, and there are minimal risks.

Quick and natural pain alleviation: Pain reduction is the main advantage of spinal manipulation. The treatment can help with discomfort in the lower back, neck, and head. Most people will feel better right after the treatment.

Increases range of motion: Another advantage of spinal manipulation is that it allows the body to move more freely. Spinal manipulation, in conjunction with exercise, may help to strengthen muscles and improve mobility.

FAQs about spinal manipulation

Patients who have never had chiropractic care before are often a bit apprehensive about what to expect. Here are some answers to some questions about what spinal manipulation feels like:

Is spinal manipulation painful?

Patients may experience momentary discomfort during spinal manipulation, although the procedure is generally not painful. You probably have some idea of spinal manipulation if you have ever adjusted your back to ease the pain after a hard day or cracked your knuckles. You can allow a trusted person to do it for you with a little confidence, and it becomes easier after that.

Is the popping sound normal?

When force is applied to the spine, it often makes a popping or cracking noise. Although this may cause some concern, it is completely common and harmless. The sound is not of bones cracking as you may think. There are joint fluids to ensure lubrication and protection of the tissues in the joints. A vacuum might form when a joint becomes trapped in an unusual position. There is an audible "pop" sound as the chiropractor moves it back into place, letting out the gas.

Will I begin to feel better immediately?

After spinal manipulation, most patients report a noticeable improvement in their physical well-being. In the short term, relieving your nerves and muscles of tension can alleviate your discomfort, but you may also feel somewhat different. Correcting your posture may feel strange at first if your spine has been used to being out of alignment for an extended period.

Spinal manipulation may help

Back issues are not the only problems chiropractors use spinal manipulation for. It can also help with neck pain and headaches. To learn more about the process, or if you have questions, book a consultation appointment today.

Request an appointment here: https://spine-chiropractic.com or call Spine Chiropractic at (423) 910-2302 for an appointment in our Ooltewah office.

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