What is a Chiropractic Adjustment?
If you’ve ever experienced back pain before, then you’ve likely considered Chiropractic treatment as a solution. Of the many common causes of back pain, several of them can be addressed with a simple Chiropractic adjustment. Receiving consistent Chiropractic care is one of the best ways to take a proactive approach to spinal care. Read on to learn more about Chiropractic adjustments, and how they can help you navigate back pain.
3 Types of Chiropractic Adjustments
There are many different treatments that fall under the umbrella term “Chiropractic adjustment”. Before applying any of these treatments, the Chiropractor will perform an investigative assessment to find the ideal treatment. These are some of the most common Chiropractic adjustments.
1. Diversified Adjustment
This Chiropractic adjustment technique is one of the most common. Diversified adjustment is used to treat many different conditions across the spine, usually resulting in a popping noise.
During diversified adjustment, the Chiropractor applies low-pressure thrusts to the affected area of the spine. The goal of these thrusts is to restore the spine to its natural, fully aligned position. This simple-but-effective technique is a great way to target a specific area. Sometimes, the Chiropractor will also use a table or block for assistance.
2. Instrument Assisted Adjustment
Sometimes called the activator method, instrument-assisted adjustment generally treats back pain, neck injuries and headaches. The Chiropractor uses an activator, a spring-loaded tool, to restore spinal mobility with quick, accurate thrusts. These quick bursts of force prevent the muscles from tensing up, leading to stronger restoration.
Patients that undergo instrument-assisted adjustment are positioned on a table in a face-down position. The Chiropractor will then determine which areas of the spine are injured. After finding the affected areas, he will use the activator to treat the spine. This involves a light but specific tap.
3. Trigger Point Therapies
Trigger point therapies, although not a direct Chiropractic technique, are usually used as during Chiropractic adjustments. Knots or nodules throughout the body tend to cause pain in two different parts of the body, the first being the site of the knot. In some cases, this knot also transmits pain to a second part of the body. For example, it’s common for neck pain to eventually cause head pain. These knots are often caused by overuse, repetitive actions, and auto accidents. These transmitted pains generally have a different sensation than standard pain.
First, the Chiropractor will eliminate the source of the pain. This involves deep-tissue muscle work techniques, which will eventually reduce pain in the transmitted area as well.
The Chiropractor will select the proper technique based on many factors.
When do I Need a Chiropractic Adjustment?
As a natural form of pain management, you don’t necessarily need a reason to receive Chiropractic adjustments. These restorative sessions will benefit anyone, regardless of condition or other variables.
- Injuries: There are many injuries that can lead to spinal discomfort, and consequently, back pain. Damaging ligaments, muscles and tendons through repetitive motions is the most common (and passive) cause of back pain. Continually neglecting posture, a lack of exercise, and improper lifting can also impact spinal health. Many people also receive a Chiropractic adjustment after slipping and falling.
- Chronic Pain: Chronic back pain is a condition that can stem from many causes. Spinal cord compression, a herniated disc and muscle spasms are all common sources of chronic back pain. These conditions can also lead to stiffness in the neck, numb arms or legs, or difficulty with physical coordination.
- Stressful Days at Work: Many physical careers can lead to back pain and muscle strain. Carpenters that spend all day lifting materials are susceptible to back issues. Mechanics who contort their bodies are also vulnerable to these issues. Chiropractic adjustments can help ease pain after especially stressful days of work.
- Sports: Whether from an injury, overuse or hyperextension, participating in sports may lead to back pain. Chiropractic adjustments can help mitigate this back pain.
- Lifestyle Choices: A sedentary office lifestyle (or a lack of physical activity) can damage your spine. Smoking can also affect the flow of blood to the vertebrae. These two choices can cause massive back pain, requiring a Chiropractic adjustment.
For many families, Chiropractic care is a way to promote family wellness. People of different ages participate in varying activities that may lead to back strain. Regardless of the particular activity, routine Chiropractic adjustments are beneficial.
Chiropractic Adjustments Long Island
Start receiving Chiropractic adjustments and eliminating your pain today!
At Brenner Chiropractic, our goal is to help each patient restore his or her body to its optimal condition. With a thorough and highly specific treatment, we will help you return to your normal pain-free lifestyle.