Persistent lower back pain, neck tension, or headaches could be signs that your spine needs attention. Sometimes, simple posture adjustments and stretching aren’t enough to alleviate these issues.
For chronic pain potentially caused by spinal misalignment, visiting a chiropractor for spinal manipulation is highly recommended. But what exactly is spinal manipulation? Keep reading to discover what it treats and what to expect during your first spine manipulation session.
What is Spinal Manipulation?
Spinal manipulation is a chiropractic technique in which controlled pressure is applied to a joint in the spine to create a precise joint release (similar to cracking your own fingers). This improves spinal motion and relieves back and neck pain. Over time, this method can help correct spinal misalignments, which could be the root cause to your aches and pains.
A chiropractor first assesses the patient’s problem areas to identify the sources of tension and pain. Then, using either their hands or a specialized device, they apply quick, controlled pressure to the affected joint. This action often produces the cracking or popping sound commonly associated with chiropractic adjustments.
What Does Spinal Manipulation Treat?
Spinal manipulation can effectively address various issues, that often lead to pain and tension felt in the spine. Consider a spinal adjustment if you’re experiencing any of the following:
- Lower back pain: Especially when it impacts daily activities like walking or standing for extended periods.
- Neck tension and stiffness: Caused by poor posture, prolonged sitting, or other factors that limit your range of motion.
- Tension headaches: Starting at the base of the neck and moving upward to the skull.
- Sports-related injuries: Injuries that affect the spines such as strains and sprains.
- Sciatica: Pain radiating from your lower back to your hips and legs.
Different Types of Spinal Manipulation Techniques
Chiropractors employ various techniques to manipulate spinal joints, providing immediate pain relief and enhancing spinal mobility. These techniques fall into two main categories:
High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude (HVLA) Techniques
HVLA techniques involve quick, controlled movements applied to spinal joints, yielding significant pain reduction and functional improvement. Common HVLA methods include:
- Diversified technique: Swift application of force with a precise twist or push to alleviate back or neck tension.
- Gonstead adjustment: Precise targeting of problematic spinal joints for effective pain relief.
- Thompson “Drop” technique: Utilizes a specialized table where sections drop during manipulation to deliver controlled force to specific spinal areas.
Low-Velocity, Low-Amplitude (LVLA) Techniques
LVLA techniques are slower and gentler, ideal for sensitive patients such as those with osteoporosis or arthritis. These techniques include:
- Activator method: Uses a spring-loaded device to deliver low-force impulses to spinal joints.
- Sacro-occipital technique: Involves placing wedges under the pelvis to realign and improve spinal health.
- Cox Technic distraction: Gentle stretching and decompression of the lower spine through rhythmic motions, effective for treating herniated discs.
What To Expect After Getting Spine Manipulation
Following a spinal adjustment, most individuals experience immediate relief from lower back, neck, and head pain and improved range of motion in affected areas. Some may encounter mild soreness or headaches, which typically resolve within 24 hours.
Is It Safe To Get a Spinal Adjustment?
Spinal manipulation is generally safe and effective for alleviating chronic back and neck pain, as well as enhancing overall spinal health and mobility.
Rare side effects like headaches or soreness are temporary and manageable. Serious complications, such as strokes or neck injuries, are extremely rare and typically associated with inexperienced practitioners.
Restore Your Spine’s Health with LifeClinic
At LifeClinic, we tailor treatment plans to address your specific pain and tension concerns, integrating spinal manipulation as part of a comprehensive approach to enhance mobility and overall spine health.
Recognizing that spinal manipulation can often treat the root cause of many issues, we also focus on other potential pain generators such as muscle tissue. Our sessions include IMJT soft tissue release and targeted exercises to ensure sustained relief and improved mobility for your joints, muscles, and nerves, optimizing your overall function.
Schedule an appointment today to explore how our comprehensive approach, including spinal manipulation, can benefit you.
