If you’ve ever been to the chiropractor before, you’ve likely heard of spinal manipulation. For those who are new to chiropractic care, the very idea of ‘spinal manipulation’ can be intimidating. However, it is a very safe and effective technique that we use to treat a wide range of injuries and conditions, including back and neck pain. There are more than 100 different types of adjustment techniques used by chiropractors all over the world, but most rely on around 10. The main goal of chiropractic care is to increase joint function, get inflammation under control, and reduce pain. Chiropractors do not mask pain, but rather find the root cause and use spinal manipulation and other techniques to give patients long-term relief.
Understanding Spinal Manipulation
Spinal manipulation is the original approach to chiropractic adjustments and is sometimes referred to as high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust. This is the technique that comes to mind when many people think of the chiropractor. It is often described as “cracking your back.” Spinal manipulation treats back pain, neck pain, and a range of other musculoskeletal conditions through force applied to the spinal joints. The idea behind this technique is to treat dysfunctional areas within the spine to restore its natural integrity and promote the body’s natural healing process.
When you come into our Dallas pain management clinic for a spinal adjustment, we will start by making sure you understand what to expect and how you will feel following the treatment. An estimated 80 percent of people who visit the chiropractor receive some form of spinal manipulation, and we are seeing more and more people turn to chiropractic care to find relief. Through the application of force (usually a fast and shallow thrust) to the spinal joints in question, your chiropractor will be able to work along the spine and find any problem areas. Many people experience a slight “pop” during spinal manipulation, which is thought to be dissolved gas that is being released from the joint fluids.
What is the Purpose of Spinal Manipulation?
Spinal manipulation is often referred to as an adjustment, which is just something to keep in mind when talking about your therapy with others. As mentioned, the main goal of spinal manipulation – and chiropractic care in general – is to reduce pain and restore the overall function of the spine. Over time, the spine can become prone to injuries and other conditions that can result in serious pain and dysfunction for the patient. Chiropractors are trained professionals who rely on spinal manipulation to provide people with relief – both immediate and long-term. While the technique has evolved, it is one of the most widely used forms of therapy to date.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort and would like to learn more about how spinal manipulation and chiropractic care can help, please contact Premier Injury Clinics of DFW today. We would be happy to schedule an appointment with you to discuss your options and see how we may be able to help you today.
