The Chiropractic Adjustment
The key to chiropractic care is the spinal adjustment. This is the way doctors of chiropractic correct subluxations.
The Goal of the Adjustment
The goal of the chiropractic adjustment is to correct the spinal subluxations detected during the examination. To do that, the doctor applies pressure to the bone and "unlocks" it from its improper position. The bone will then be free to align itself correctly.
Many people think that the chiropractor forces a vertebra back into its "proper" place. But only the individual's own Innate Intelligence knows for sure what the proper place for each bone is. The role of the chiropractor is to free up the vertebrae. Then, the body can do its job and put them back in the correct position.
Unfortunately, the muscles connected to subluxated vertebrae get used to their positions and have a tendency to pull the bone back out of place. It may take several adjustments before the adjustment "holds," and the bone settles into its proper alignment.
Adjusting Techniques
We as Chiropractors select the technique which will most effectively correct subluxations with a minimum of force. The "art" of adjusting requires skill and training rather than brute strength. That's why our well trained Drs pick and choose the right technique for each individual.
Will it Hurt?
Because most adjusting techniques emphasize using minimal force and gentle pressure, few patients feel any discomfort during the adjustment. Many, however, will hear popping sounds. But there's no need for concern. There's nothing breaking. The noises you hear are just tiny pockets of gas releasing with a pop, which is completely normal.
With or without noises, your adjustment should be completely pain free.