What is a Chiropractic Adjustment?

If you’re planning a visit to a chiropractor for any pain or stiffness you might be experiencing, it’s helpful to know what to expect. Terms like “spinal manipulation” or “chiropractic adjustment” might sound confusing or make you uncertain. But there’s nothing to be nervous about!

A chiropractic adjustment is when a chiropractor uses manual pressure or instruments to manipulate your spine or joint to correct its alignment, reduce tension, improve movement, and relieve pressure on your nerves. Chiropractors use different adjustments, depending on the situation, to restore balance and bring relief!

Let’s learn about the various adjustments your chiropractor may use to treat you. Then you will know what to expect—and look forward to your next appointment with the same confidence as the 35 million Americans who enjoy chiropractic care every year!

Types of Chiropractic Adjustments

The goal of a chiropractic appointment is to restore your spine and joints to optimum health—and there are a few different ways your chiropractor works towards that. Your treatment plan may include one or more of the following techniques.

The Direct Thrust (Diversified) Technique

The most widely used adjustments are direct thrusts to restore alignment and mobility to your vertebrae and joints. As your chiropractor uses precise, manual movements to move your bones, you might feel pressure and hear some clicking and popping noises—that’s normal! 

Due to the nature of the treatment, you might notice some tenderness after your appointment (lasting no longer than a day), but you can also expect relief, more flexibility, and less pain in your back and joints!

Spinal Manipulation

Spinal manipulation is a very similar treatment to the direct thrust technique but it is slower and less forceful—while still being a very effective way to restore alignment and reduce tension around your vertebrae. Here your chiropractor uses stretching to encourage realignment.

The Gonstead Method

The Gonstead method describes a thorough multi-step approach to diagnose and treat intervertebral (between the vertebrae) misalignment and inflammation and restore spinal health as accurately and quickly as possible. 

Your chiropractor will examine your movements and x-rays, use instruments and physical examination to pinpoint the misalignment (however small)—and then treat it using manual therapy. This method is so exact and effective, it can treat “incurable” complaints like chronic migraines—and provide complete relief!

Drop-Table Technique

In the drop-table technique, your chiropractor uses a specialized table that lowers—by about an inch—as they perform a manual thrust on your lower back. This enhances the effectiveness of the manipulation and increases your comfort at the same time. It usually feels like a gentle vibration on your spine.

Flexion Distraction

Another table technique is flexion distraction. Here the segmented table moves in a gentle rhythmic motion to help stretch your spine as your chiropractor works to realign your vertebrae. It is fluid, gentle, and soothing, which is helpful if you’re very sensitive or have recently experienced an injury. It is often used to help treat back injuries.

Activator Method

Your chiropractor may use an instrument called an activator which looks like a wand. It releases a small but direct mechanical impulse in targeted locations to restore balance along your spine or extremities. This is a quick but effective option, especially when treating back pain or headaches.

Book Your Appointment With the Evolve Team Today!

Your chiropractor understands that each body, spine, and situation is unique—that’s why it’s so helpful to have so many different options when it comes to chiropractic adjustments. Be assured that your chiropractor will craft a treatment plan that suits you, your complaint—and your future goals!

Contact Evolve Chiropractic, your local chiropractor in Woodstock, GA, and look forward to your adjustments and the relief that follows!