Many questions are asked about chiropractic adjustments. Here we have provided answers to some of the most common questions.
Will an adjustment hurt?
Most patients find chiropractic adjustments painless. Some new patients who are unaccustomed to relaxing during treatment, may involuntarily stiffen or resist the adjustment, resulting in them feeling a small amount of discomfort until they are able to relax. If a patient has had a recent trauma such as whiplash, they may fell a mild discomfort. Many patients experience a sense of relief, calmness and a feeling of wellbeing after an adjustment and others experience improved mobility.
What is the “popping” sound?
Adjusting your vertebrae releases tiny pockets of gas from the joints, causing a “popping” sound. Popping your knuckles makes the same sound. It is not an indication that the adjustment is working or not, and not everyone hears this sound.
Are adjustments safe?
The safety and effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments have been documented by many research studies. They are considerably safer than consuming medications or undergoing spine surgery. Research has shown that chiropractic adjustment complications are rare.
Can I adjust myself?
No, it is dangerous to adjust yourself. Only skilled professionals should perform chiropractic adjustments.
Do other types of professionals perform adjustments?
These techniques are performed by some osteopaths, but these days this is rare. 95% of all adjustments in the world are performed by chiropractors. Just be wary of anyone who makes similar claims, such as massage therapists, physical therapists, or “healers” who don’t have the credentials, qualifications, or experience of a chiropractor.
What conditions are chiropractic adjustments used for?
Because they are a precise method of restoring proper movement, chiropractic adjustments are useful for correcting:
- Certain kinds of headaches
- Stiffness and pain in the neck, shoulders, back, chest, abdomen, arms, hands, hips, legs and feet
- Sciatica
- Whiplash and other injuries and trauma to the body
- Leg pain and nerve complaints
- Scoliosis
- Sports injuries and most muscular skeletal injuries including sprained joints and ligaments, tennis elbow and strained muscles
- Tendonitis and Bursitis (conditions of inflammation of soft tissues and tendons)
- Arthritis
- Repetitive strain disorders including carpal tunnel
- Fibromyalgia (chronic muscle stiffness and pain)
What if I need surgery?
Chiropractors believe and emphasize that conservative care should be the first response to most illnesses and injuries. Chiropractors are, however, trained to recognize when an injury is outside their scope of practice and, if necessary, will refer a patient to the appropriate medical specialist.
Innovative Chiropractic is proud to be your Mill Creek chiropractor. Contact us today if you have any questions, or if you’d like to make an appointment.