Also known as spinal manipulative therapy, spinal manipulation is a technique where chiropractors use their hands to apply controlled thrust to a spinal joint. The goal of the whole chiropractic adjustment process is to improve spinal motion and improve the body’s physical function. Several studies have found that people report positive experiences and reduced pain after spinal manipulation.
Besides chiropractors, other licensed professionals such as physical therapists and osteopathic physicians can also do spinal manipulations.
Effects of Spinal Manipulations
When conducted correctly by licensed specialists, spinal manipulation is reported to have the following evidenced effects.
– Decreased spinal stiffness.
– Spinal pain relief. Studies relate pain relief to psychological effects or neurophysiological changes.
– Spinal manipulation and mobilization significantly decrease blood pressure.
Is Spinal Manipulation Safe?
When conducted by a trained and licensed specialist, spinal manipulative therapy is relatively safe. Otherwise, this practice’s most common side effects include temporary muscle soreness, stiffness, and pain. Some circumstances have related to severe complications and even deaths.
Other conditions commonly linked with the safety of the chiropractic treatment include:
– Compression of nerves in the lower spinal column
– Neck stroke after neck manipulation therapy
– Herniated disk or worsening of pre-existing conditions.
What to Expect During Spinal Manipulation?
During your first visit, a licensed chiropractor will probably give you a quick check-up, perform a physical examination, then inquire about your health and discomforts or symptoms of the pain. They may use diagnostic imaging or lab tests to determine if the treatment is suitable for your pain relief. During the procedure, you are positioned in a particular way to treat places that need a specialist’s attention. The chiropractor then uses hands to apply a controlled force to your spinal joints during the treatment session.
When Not to Seek Spinal Manipulation
In case you are experiencing one of the following or related complications, you should not seek chiropractic treatment.
– Cancer in your spine
– Severe osteoporosis
– Numbness or loss of strength in arm or leg
– Increased risk of stroke
– A bone abnormality in the upper neck
