Chiropractic Adjustment in Gilbert, AZ

Dr. Brice Neff DC Gilbert AZ

Chiropractic Adjustment & Techniques

Chiropractic care is a complementary medicine form based on the idea that your body can heal itself with the help of specific hands-on manipulations from a trained professional. These manipulations help realign your joints and can potentially lead to pain relief.

The causes of spinal misalignment range from excessive strain on the neck and back to inflammatory causes. Careful manipulation of the spine with targeted forces can help restore normal bone and joint function across the body. In this article, we wish to discuss the types and mechanisms of action of chiropractic adjustment.

Based on the use of tools, the primary adjustment types are manual and instrument-based. The manual type employs the hand in manipulating and applying forces on the spine. On the other hand, the instrument-assisted method uses some tools during the manipulation process. Typically, chiropractic adjustment cost is determined by the number of spinal regions adjusted.

Types of Chiropractic Adjustments

Diversified Technique

This technique is used by more than ninety percent of chiropractors on many patients to correct subluxations or limited joint mobility. It is done by using precise high-velocity low force hand movements.

Manual Therapy

This type is similar to what we described above, except the hand thrusts are more gentle. It is a manual way of reducing inflammation and excessive joint pressure. The aim of this technique is spinal manipulation which restores joint function.

Thompson Technique

In this type of chiropractic adjustment, the doctor applies a light force to a spinal segment, and simultaneously, the section of the chiropractic table directly below gives way (approximately ½”). This light drop action enhances the effectiveness of the hand adjustment. The aim is to increase joint mobility.

Decompression of The Spine

This technique relieves the spine for people with disc pain. It is also effective for those with muscle tightness problems. The method works by stretching the spine on a unique table. This technique repositions the leaky disc material that has exceeded the normal boundary of the disc wall. It also helps with proper circulation.

Other techniques include the flexion-distraction and the activator method. The activator method is more of an instrument-assisted type where a device is used to send impulses thru the spine to the brain. The effect of these impulses helps to treat various ailments of the spine and joints in the body.

How a Chiropractic Adjustment Works

It is pertinent to know how the adjustment process works and the various chiropractic adjustment benefits. No matter the chiropractic adjustment techniques used, the treatment procedure aims to correct spinal misalignment and its effects. The procedure is also suitable and effective for all age groups. It is also effective for people in an immunosuppressed state and is at risk for various infections.

The procedure starts with you being in a prone position. You assume this position when you lie facing down on a treatment table. The chiropractor will then begin targeted and individualized manipulations on your spine and surrounding structures. These structures include nerves, muscles, and subcutaneous tissue. There’s usually no discomfort associated with the procedure. There’s a lasting feeling of relief afterward.

The mechanism of action of the procedure is such that a calculated amount of pressure is exerted at some regions of the spine, which manipulates it into normal movement or position. Also, the amount of force exerted and the technique used differ from patient to patient.

However, the misalignment on the spine might take several appointments to improve if the dysfunction has been there for a while. The chiropractor will recommend a series of manipulations over several weeks in cases like this. This applied targeted and calculated force on the spine corrects the movement and position in the long run.

In some instances, like patients with low back pain, chiropractic care is effective with other treatment modalities like massage and acupuncture.

Conclusion

Chiropractic adjustments and other forms of chiropractic care are a lifesaver for people living with spinal misalignment and other spine-related symptoms like chronic pain. However, receiving this care from a licensed and professional caregiver is pertinent. The reason is that chiropractors target the underlying cause of an ailment rather than treat the presenting symptoms. This makes it imperative for the caregiver to understand the disease process deeply. Also, it is crucial to attend all sessions if the treatment requires a series of manipulations. Each session is linked to providing complete care, and failure to follow through may delay or hinder recovery. Combining the procedure with other treatment modalities in specific cases is also essential.

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Content Reviewed By

Dr. Brice Neff DC Gilbert AZ
Doctor of Chiropractic
Author