Chiropractic Adjustment

A chiropractic adjustment - also known as chiropractic manipulation, manual manipulation, or spinal manipulation - is a common therapeutic treatment for lower back pain.

A chiropractic adjustment refers to a chiropractor applying manipulation to the vertebrae that have abnormal movement patterns or fail to function normally.

The objective of this chiropractic treatment is to reduce the subluxation, with the goals of increasing range of motion, reducing nerve irritability and improving function.

Chiropractic adjustment typically involves:

A high velocity, short lever arm thrust applied to a vertebra. An accompanying, audible release of gas (joint cavitation) that is caused by the release of oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide, which releases joint pressure (cavitation)

This gives the patient a relieving sensation, although just going to the gym muscles will get a bit sore, this is normal. In our office we use several therapies to avoid the side effects of the stiffness and tenderness that can occur, Including muscle stimulation with an interferential current on the effected muscles. We also will use ultrasound and Ice if needed. Massage therapy is also an option.

See Spinal Manipulation: High-Velocity Low-Amplitude (HVLA)

Chiropractic Adjustment Techniques

There are many different manipulative techniques that can be utilized in our office, and there is a certain skill level and "art" involved with high velocity, low amplitude adjustment or manipulation. It is perhaps more important for the chiropractor to determine when not to apply the adjustment. After almost 30 years adjusting patents, I feel my skill level is very good.

The most common reaction to a chiropractic adjustment is aching or soreness in the spinal joints or muscles. If this aching or soreness occurs, it is usually within the first few hours post-treatment and does not last longer than 24 hours after the chiropractic adjustment. Application of an ice pack often reduces the symptoms relatively quickly.

References:

The American Chiropractic Association: Facts & Statistics about Chiropractic.

Unsworth A, Dowson D, Wright V. "Cracking joints".

Related Articles:

Understanding Spinal Manipulation

Conservative vs Surgical Care for Lower Back Pain

Chiropractic Procedures for the Sacroiliac Joint

The Graston Technique: An Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Manual Therapy for Back Pain

Article written by: Steven G. Yeomans, DC