Chiropractic adjustment, or “manipulation” as it is sometimes referred to, is the minor movement of vertebrae in the spine.
The objective of this movement is to realign vertebrae that have moved out of place. Vertebrae move for any number of reasons ranging from normal daily activity to trauma, such as a car accident.
The misalignment of a vertebra is often called a “subluxation.”
When vertebrae are out of place, it has an overall systemic effect from the muscular to the central nervous system.
Low back pain, neck pain and headache are the most common problems for which people seek chiropractic adjustment or manipulation.
Without proper alignment and flow of all nerves and systems in the body from the brain, we can’t function at our peak.
What is a chiropractic adjustment or manipulation?
An adjustment or manipulation is often a pressure from the chiropractor utilizing his hands or a tool to move a vertebrae back into place. This happens with a quick movement and is often without discomfort.
Cavitation
During a chiropractic adjustment you may hear a noise that sounds like you’re cracking your knuckles, referred to as “joint cavitation.” This sound is made by the release of gases such as oxygen and nitrogen from the joint.
Safety
Chiropractic adjustment or manipulation is safe when performed by a properly trained and licensed chiropractor.
There are some risks involved in certain cases. These complications are extremely rare, but can include:
- A herniated disk or a worsening of an existing disk herniation
- Compression of nerves in the lower spinal column
- A certain type of stroke after neck manipulation.
Treatment Plan
Chiropractic treatment may require a series of visits to your chiropractor, but most patients attain improvement in six to 10 visits with regular “maintenance” appointments thereafter.
Health Insurance
Many health insurance policies cover chiropractic care. You should discuss your insurance coverage with Dr. DeFazio’s office to see how many treatments are covered in a given time period.
Call NowAdjustments are an excellent way to keep the body functioning at its highest level. When your body is in alignment, it is able to respond and perform as it was designed to.