An “adjustment” refers to the manipulation chiropractors apply to a vertebrae or group of vertebrae that exhibit abnormal movement patterns and fail to function normally due to a fixation. The purpose of manipulation is to restore joint mobility to restricted areas of the spine, reduce nerve irritability and improve body function/tone as a result of tissue injury. Tissue injury can be caused by a single traumatic event, such as improper lifting of a heavy object, or through repetitive stresses, such as sitting in an awkward position with poor spinal posture for an extended period of time.
The chiropractic adjustment consists of a high velocity, short lever arm thrust applied to a vertebra and is often accompanied by an audible release of gas (joint cavitation). The audible (“cracking”) sound is caused by the release of oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide, which releases joint pressure. The sensation is usually relieving, though minor discomfort has been reported (usually lasts for only a short time duration) if the surrounding muscles are in spasm or the patient tenses up during the chiropractic procedure. Over time these noises may lessen or disappear completely. When this happens, it does not mean the adjustment is not effective, only that normal flexibility is returning to the affected vertebrae.
With concerns regarding the chiropractic adjustment please contact the office at 732-920-8188 or email dryanchus@brickfamilychiropractic.com.
