Different Spinal Adjustment Techniques

The main objective of spinal adjustment is to improve functionality, increase the range of motion while reducing irritability of the nerves.

Due to the fact that different patients have varied treatment requirements, there are several techniques of spinal adjustment used today. Normally the treatment involves forceful as well as less forceful adjustment techniques over the course of time during which treatment will be administered. Spinal adjustment techniques can be categorized into two.

Spinal mobilization – This category is composed of gentle or low force techniques. Some patients prefer them over the high velocity ones as they are gentler and do not involve a lot of twisting. They are also recommended for specific conditions including patient comfort, patient size, patient preference, osteoporosis and pathology.

Spinal manipulation – Also known as high-velocity low-amplitude thrust, spinal manipulation is the most common adjustment technique used today. The technique is often accompanied by a certain pop. This is often because a sudden force is applied to joints positioned in a specific way.

As part of the treatment process, osteopathic physicians will sometimes employ adjunctive therapy like electric stimulation, heat therapy modality or ice to make the treatment more effective.

Are there any risks of spinal adjustment?

If performed by a qualified professional, there are minimal risks involved with spinal adjustment. Risks and complications of spinal adjustment do exit, but they are rare. They include:

• Cauda equine syndrome – This condition occurs when nerves in the lower spinal column are compressed. Symptoms include pain, loss of feeling in the legs, loss of bladder or bowel control and weakness.
• Herniated disk – It’s a problem associated with rubbery cushions found between individual bones of the spine.
• Vertebral artery dissection may occur.

Measures can be taken to avoid the occurrence of these risks and these involve avoiding spinal adjustment in case of the following:

• Cancer in the spine.
• Severe osteoporosis.
• An unstable spine.
• High risk of stroke.
• Tingling, numbness or weakness in the arms or legs.

How can you prepare for a spinal adjustment?

Spinal adjustments do not require any special preparation. All you have to do is make sure that you select your chiropractor carefully. It’s also important to note that the treatment may require several visits to the doctor. As such, you need to consult with your doctor to know how the schedule will be like. Looking for a trusted Durham chiropractic? Check out TheJointNC, today!

What can you expect from a spinal adjustment?

Other than the usual questions, medical history, physical exam or X-ray that will be required at the beginning, there are various things you can expect during and after the treatment. During treatment, you will be placed in different positions and your doctor will use hands to apply force to affected area of the spine. You may also hear cracking sounds during your visits.

Other treatment therapies like massages, exercise or electrical stimulation may be applied during the session.

Minor side effects that may be observed few days after the procedure include headaches, pain or fatigue in the body parts that were treated.