Spinal adjustment

Spinal adjustment is a therapeutic intervention performed on synovial joints, primarily those located in the spinal column. The objective of this treatment is to restore the structural integrity of the body's primary framework, the skeletal system. The core of this approach involves manually manipulating the patient's spinal column. This is often done by a chiropractor, a healthcare professional trained in this discipline.

Overview

Spinal adjustment, also known as chiropractic adjustment, is a non-invasive procedure that focuses on the mechanical and functional aspects of spinal structures and the effects these adjustments have on the nervous system. The procedure is often used to treat back pain, neck pain, headache, and other musculoskeletal conditions.

Procedure

During a spinal adjustment, the chiropractor applies a controlled, sudden force to a specific joint, moving it beyond its passive range of motion. The amount of force applied depends on the form of adjustment being used. The goal of the treatment is to increase the range and quality of motion in the area being treated and to aid in restoring health.

Techniques

There are various techniques used in spinal adjustment, including:

• Diversified technique: This is the most commonly used adjustment technique by chiropractors. Like many chiropractic and osteopathic manipulative techniques, it is characterized by a high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust.

• Gonstead adjustment: This is another type of manual manipulation, named after its developer, Dr. Clarence Gonstead. This involves a very specific hands-on technique, often involving adjusting the lower back or pelvis as the patient lies on his side.

• Activator method: This involves the use of a hand-held, spring-loaded instrument called an Activator. The device gives off a low-force impulse to the spine with the aim of restoring motion to the targeted spinal vertebra or joint.

Risks and Complications

While spinal adjustment is generally considered safe for certain conditions, like any other treatment, it does have potential risks and complications. These may include temporary discomfort in parts of the body that were treated, headache, fatigue, and rarely, injury to a spinal disc or worsening of an existing condition.

See Also

• Chiropractic
• Osteopathy
• Physical therapy

References

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