Chiropractic adjustments

What an adjustment does

An adjustment frees the joints of the spine so the vertebrae can move back to their natural position. We believe the body knows how to heal itself once it is free to do so.

Techniques we use

• Toggle drop: with crossed hands, the chiropractor presses firmly on one area of the spine and adjusts it with a quick, precise thrust, to improve movement in the joints.
• Side posture (lumbar roll): you lie on your side while the chiropractor makes a quick, precise adjustment to the vertebra that is out of place.
• Release work: gentle pressure with the fingertips to separate the vertebrae.
• Drop-table adjustments: you lie on a table with sections that drop as the chiropractor adjusts, so the adjustment can be lighter and needs no twisting.
• Instrument adjustments: often the gentlest method. You lie face down while the chiropractor uses a small spring-loaded instrument.

Chiropractors take your size, weight and muscle structure into account when choosing an adjustment. Sometimes ice, electrical stimulation or massage is used first to relax the muscles.

What patients come in for

• Pain and stiffness in the back, neck, hips or shoulders
• Headaches
• Sciatica
• Sports injuries and repetitive strain, such as carpal tunnel
• Arthritis, bursitis and tendonitis
• Whiplash and other injuries
• Scoliosis

After an adjustment

The popping sound you may hear is usually a pocket of air released from behind the joint. Some mild aching afterwards is normal; it is usually gone soon and eases with ice or heat.