Q: What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A: An adjustment refers to the gentle and precise movement of a joint or joints in the body as performed by a Chiropractor. During an adjustment a patient will be placed in a comfortable position and movement will be induced into the problem joint. The adjustment returns normal function to your joints which in turn, allow the body to begin the healing process.
Q: What is that cracking sound I hear during an adjustment?
A: The sound is the release of gases from the joint being moved. A vacuum is created with the joint causing the gas to be released. The gas will typically re-enter the joint within 10 minutes. It is not bone rubbing on bone or the sound of tissue tearing.
Q: I have heard that you can have a stroke if your neck is adjusted, is that true?
A: Recent studies published in neurological journals have warned against manipulation of the neck due to the risk of vertebral artery dissection. There are serious problems with the statistical significance of these studies, yet neurologists are making blanket statements against cervical adjustments without reviewing the information given in the main study. There are risks with any procedure performed in physical medicine. You have a better chance, though, of being struck by lightning multiple times than having a stroke from a neck adjustment. The procedure is one of the safest in medicine. Taking a medication for headaches is far more dangerous.
Q: If I go to a Chiropractor, will I have to go for the rest of my life?
A: We have grown up in a society that looks at going to the Doctor as something to do only when symptoms are so bad that they cannot be ignored any longer. Chiropractic is based on whole body health that includes prevention of symptoms, as well as, managing symptoms when they occur. Dedication to health should be a life long pursuit.
Q: How many times will I have to come back for treatments?
A: The number of times you need treatments depends on a couple of factors. One is the severity of your condition. Another is how you respond to treatment. Many patients come in for an adjustment once every month or every couple of months to maintain proper movement and optimal health after their major complaint is gone.
Q: Does the Chiropractic adjustment hurt?
A: The most common comment I get from new Chiropractic patients is that they were surprised at how gentle the adjustment was compared to what they expected. Rarely is an adjustment uncomfortable.
