A chiropractic adjustment, also known as chiropractic manipulation, manual manipulation, or spinal manipulation, is the primary chiropractic treatment method for back pain.
Spinal manipulation relieves pressure on joints, reduces inflammation, and improves nerve function. It has been a trusted form of treatment since the ancient Greek Hippocrates documented manipulative techniques in his writings back in 1500 B.C. Today, spinal manipulation is used to treat conditions such as neck and back pain, allergies, menstrual cramps, irregularity, radiating pains, numbness/tingling and headaches.
How Does Spinal Manipulation Work?
There are many different types of adjustment techniques used by chiropractors throughout the world. Some practitioners may use force and twisting, while other techniques are more gentle. Regardless of how they are performed, these techniques are intended to restore or enhance joint function with the objectives of reducing pain, resolving joint inflammation and reducing nerve interference when present.
Whether the cause is an injury or accident, poor postural habits, overexertion, "sleeping wrong," or just increased stress on your body from daily activities, vertebral misalignments can and do occur, causing painful symptoms. When vertebrae do shift out of place, there is an overall systemic response from the muscular system to the central nervous system. Without proper alignment and flow, our nerves, our immune system, and our minds cannot function at their highest peak.
Overall, spinal adjustments and manipulations are an excellent way to keep the body functioning at its highest level and without any discomfort. When the body is adequately aligned, it becomes able to respond and perform as it was built to do.
Traditional Medicine Now Recommending Chiropractic Care
In February 2017, the American College of Physicians released new guidelines supporting "the use of nonpharmacologic therapies, such as chiropractic, acupuncture and massage as first line options for treating non-specific low back pain." Practical Pain Management, February 21, 2017. "American College of Physicians Releases New Guidelines for Low Back Pain."