A Chiropractic adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation, is a non-invasive and drug-free technique used by chiropractors to treat the body’s nerve, muscle, and joints (“neuromusculoskeletal” treatment). It involves the application of controlled force to specific joints in the spine or other areas of the body to restore mobility in the joint capsule to specific areas in the spine that are not moving properly, called “joint restrictions.” Chiropractic adjustments are essential to spinal health because joint restrictions disrupt the body’s normal biomechanical function by interfering with normal nerve and muscle function. Sometimes, joint restrictions cause issues without symptoms for some time, or result in compensation in different regions of the body. This is why our assessments are not primarily pain-based, but are neuro-functional in nature – meaning that at Riverside Chiropractic we assess underlying nerve function, biomechanics, orthopedic tests, posture, and joint by joint spine function in the spine to gain a holistic perspective of your spinal health, rather than simply treating surface symptoms.
In our clinic, we utilize a variety of chiropractic adjustment techniques, customized to your body and preference. In the most commonly used technique called diversified technique, the chiropractor will use their hands to apply a quick and precise force to the joint. This is called a “high velocity, low amplitude thrust,” meaning it is quick but gentle. This movement can produce a “popping” or “cracking” sound which is called a cavitation. This is caused by the release of gas bubbles from the joint.
We also utilize a variety of other adjustment techniques on a case-by-case basis such as:
- Joint Mobilization: gentler hands-on technique to encourage joint mobility without a quick thrust, and therefore, rarely creates a “cavitation.”
- Drop Table Adjusting: utilizing a special chiropractic table that has drop pieces to assist with the adjustment. This is done with that patient face-down on the table.
- Impulse or Activator Adjusting (instrument assisted)
Chiropractic adjustments are generally very safe and effective. In your initial assessment, we conduct a thorough history and physical examination to ensure patients are a good candidate for chiropractic adjustments.
