Understanding Chiropractic Adjustments and Spinal Manipulations

Non-prescription pain management and therapy can seem ineffective in theory because nothing is working to block or suppress pain sensors in the body. However, because of the non-addictive nature of treatments, like chiropractic care, patient safety is often never a concern. Most patients experience immediate relief after their initial visit with a chiropractor, and over time, they may experience the permanent relief of their injury or chronic condition. While that may sound like magic, chiropractic care is not sorcery; it is science-backed and evidence-based.

Body Positioning

Doctors of chiropractic have a theoretical and practical knowledge of the musculoskeletal system. Most patient injuries or chronic conditions stem from misalignment of the musculoskeletal system, and it is a chiropractor’s job to realign the spine and other bones to improve health and relieve pain. Realignment depends on the precise positioning of a patient’s body and the sharp, sudden and practiced movements of a chiropractor to force and reestablish alignment.

Popping Sounds

Popping or cracking sounds are not uncommon during treatment, but while they may sound alarming to patients, these sounds are harmless. The noises are only the release of air pockets in the fluid surrounding joints. Many people worry that the sounds indicate damage occurring during treatment and fear the eventual development of arthritis or injury. However, the noises are not the result of further or future harm, but the opposite.

Safety

Spinal manipulations and adjustments are safe, but only a doctor of chiropractic should perform them. While the movements may appear simplistic and DIY-friendly, they are precise, and if performed incorrectly, can cause injury. Chiropractors have the knowledge and practice to implement these techniques safely, and they have the license and certification to prove it. Never attempt a maneuver on yourself or a friend. If you want to receive an adjustment, schedule an appointment, and go to a licensed professional.

Long-Term Care

While a chiropractor may suggest a six-week treatment plan for an injury, nearly every doctor of chiropractic will also suggest continued long-term care. When treating an injury, a chiropractor may want to see a patient between two and three times per week. Still, after the initial treatment period, they will want to continue to see a patient helping to prevent another injury from occurring.

Chiropractic manipulations are precise maneuvers, and chiropractic therapy is a form of preventative care. If you would like to discuss treatment or a recent injury, contact a chiropractor or back pain doctor in Hagerstown, MD, like from Pain & Spine Specialists of Maryland, LLC.