A chiropractic adjustment is a treatment aimed at improving movement and relieving pain in your spine. During this procedure, a chiropractor uses their hands or specialized instruments to apply quick thrusts of pressure to the joints in your spine, with the goal of fixing misalignments1. Here’s what you can expect from a chiropractic adjustment:
- Preparation and Examination:
- You don’t need any specific preparation for a chiropractic appointment.
- During your first visit, the chiropractor will inquire about your medical history and perform an examination, focusing on your spine.
- Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to assess your bones and joints.
- Based on the evaluation, the chiropractor will create a personalized treatment plan for you.
- The Adjustment Process:
- You’ll typically lie face down on a padded table during the adjustment.
- The chiropractor will focus on specific areas of your spine, applying controlled pressure to the joints or moving them beyond their normal range of motion.
- You might hear a popping or cracking sound during the adjustment, which is caused by gases (like oxygen and carbon dioxide) releasing from your joints.
- The procedure should not cause any pain.
- After the Adjustment:
- Mild soreness in your joints is normal after an adjustment.
- You might experience a slight headache or fatigue.
- Applying ice or heat to the affected areas can help relieve soreness.
- The soreness should improve within a day.
- Benefits and Conditions Treated:
- Chiropractic adjustments are commonly used to address:
- Low back pain
- Neck pain
- Headaches
- Sciatica
- While evidence is limited, chiropractic adjustments may slightly improve low back pain and could be a safer alternative to opioids and other pain relievers. Guidelines from the American College of Physicians recommend spinal manipulation for both acute and chronic low back pain12.
- Chiropractic adjustments are commonly used to address:
