What Exactly is an Adjustment?
A chiropractor understands the importance of spinal adjustments that correct subluxations, a misalignment of the vertebrae. The term “adjustment” refers to the pressure we apply to vertebrae that have abnormal movement patterns or fail to function normally.
A chiropractic adjustment is done to reduce the misalignment, resulting in an increased range of motion, reduced nerve irritability, reduced muscle spasm, reduced pain and improved function. The chiropractic adjustment, a quick thrust applied to a vertebra to correct its position or movement, is often accompanied by an audible release of gas in the spinal joints — it sounds like a “crack.” Although the sound is somewhat surprising, the action usually relieves the pressure.
It’s important to relax during the treatment. If a patient tenses up during the chiropractic procedure, minor discomfort can be experienced. At times, the”cracking” sound doesn’t occur because of significant muscle tightness or difficulty relaxing during an adjustment. Some adjusting techniques are designed to move the spine in a way that does not produce the audible sound at all.
Our goal in doing an adjustment is to restore the body to its natural state of optimal health. In order to accomplish this, we use and recommend a variety of natural healing methods including adjustments, massage, trigger point therapy, nutrition, exercise rehabilitation and counseling on lifestyle issues that impact overall health.
Our primary focus is to simply remove those things which interfere with the body’s natural normal healing ability. While the adjustment of the spine is common, we also adjust the extremities and use other forms of physiological therapeutics including electrical stimulation, ultrasound, traction, neuromuscular re-education and a variety of manual therapies.
Increasingly, chiropractors’ offices are becoming full-service wellness centers that provide a variety of wellness services and coaching, offering seminars in spinal alignment, improved posture and ergonomics, as well as programs on weight management, relaxation, smoking cessation, nutrition and exercise. Some even offer pre- and post-natal healthy baby programs. These centers provide a convenient and affordable path for just about anyone looking to adopt a wellness life-style.
We at Ocon Family Chiropratic understand that there is an innate wisdom or healthy energy inside each of us that will express itself as perfect health and well being if we allow it to. A commitment of our care is to remove any physiological blocks to the proper expression of the body’s in-nate wisdom with improved health a natural consequence. Who wouldn’t want that? Chiropractic care is so much more than simply a means of relieving pain. Contact us today to find out more.
~Dr. Luis Ocon