What Actually Is A Chiropractic Adjustment?

What Is A Chiropractic Adjustment?

To understand what a chiropractic adjustment actually is you should first understand what it is not.  What is different between an orthopedic manipulation or osteopathic maneuver? The difference is the dynamic thrust in the spinal column that is performed.  This is the identifying feature of a chiropractic adjustment.  A sudden motion of force in a specific manner distinguishes chiropractic from other healing disciplines.

What To Adjust?

The specific procedure applied to a subluxated vertebra is deemed an adjustment.  In order to know what vertebra or vertebrae have become subluxated, a full spinal analysis must be performed.  Thorough spinographs (x-rays) are used to detect exactly which area(s) need to be adjusted. Special instruments are used along the spine to detect temperature differences at various levels.  These temperature differences help to see if the area that is subluxated needs adjusted during a check-up. Also, active or passive palpation along the spine has its own role to play during assessment, when necessary.  With these components being utilized an accurate and precise procedural plan can be set in place to apply restoration of the subluxated vertebrae.

Does The Vertebra Just “Go Back In”

Without diving too much into the concept of the vertebra “going back in”, you must understand that the noise created via an adjustment is made by the surrounding joints and disc space.  The vertebra itself does not snap, crackle or pop. It is not bone on bone. This sound is caused by small pockets of air or bubbles which are in the fluid that surrounds your joints. When joint tissues are stretched during a chiropractic adjustment, the pockets of air/gas “pop” which creates that cracking sound you hear.  The dynamic thrust that is used to restore a vertebra’s position must be followed by sequential multiple adjustments.  With time, innate intelligence will utilize these motions of specific force to make the ultimate correction. Then… guess what?  You have to retain it with check-ups and accurate adjustments to ensure the nerve is in proper tone. There is no such thing as the magic adjustment that your spine “holds” or one that creates proper alignment for the rest of your life.  We understand muscle memory works in two fashions. Either you have positive muscle memory or negative.  Train the muscles well by having a central nerve system free of interference. #getchecked

 

One Comment

  • Thanks for helping me understand that having a chiropractor adjust your back can help figure out the root cause of your pain and treat it! My uncle is looking for suggestions on eliminating the back pain that he’s experiencing at random. Perhaps this is a good time for him to consider visiting one of these professionals for help.

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