Adjustments and Manipulation

A chiropractic adjustment — also called chiropractic manipulation, manual manipulation, or spinal manipulation — is the primary treatment method chiropractors use for spine-related pain.

Spinal manipulation applies a controlled force to a specific joint with the goal of improving joint motion and reducing pain. It's most commonly used for musculoskeletal complaints such as low back pain, neck pain, and certain headaches.

How Does Spinal Manipulation Work?

There are many adjustment techniques in use, ranging from firmer manual methods to gentler, low-force approaches such as instrument-assisted or drop-table techniques. Regardless of the method, the objective is the same: restore or improve joint function so movement becomes more comfortable.

Which technique we use depends on your exam findings, your comfort, your age, and any relevant health history. If a technique isn't a good fit for you, we'll use another one.

What an Adjustment Feels Like

Many patients hear or feel a popping sound during a manual adjustment — that's gas releasing within the joint and is not a sign of anything being forced into place. Some people feel immediate relief; others feel mild soreness for a day, similar to after exercise. Individual responses vary.

Is It Right for You?

Chiropractic adjustments are widely used for musculoskeletal complaints, but they aren't appropriate for everyone or every condition. We screen for factors that would make manipulation unsuitable and will refer you elsewhere or use an alternative approach when that's the better call.