Chiropractic Adjustments
What Is A Chiropractic Adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a precise, manual therapeutic intervention aimed at restoring joint functionality and addressing neuromusculoskeletal issues. Based on sound neurobiological principles and biomechanics, this evidence-based practice involves the application of specific forces to joints that show restricted movement patterns or dysfunction.
During an adjustment, Dr. Higgins uses his hands or specialized instruments to apply controlled, sudden force to a spinal joint, moving it beyond its restricted range of motion. This helps to correct misalignments (subluxations), improve joint mobility, reduce nerve irritation, and enhance overall biomechanical function.
The Science Behind Adjustments
Chiropractic adjustments work through several physiological mechanisms:
Mechanical Effects
The adjustment restores proper joint alignment and mobility, reducing physical stress on surrounding tissues and improving biomechanical function throughout the kinetic chain.
Neurological Effects
When a joint is adjusted, specialized nerve receptors called mechanoreceptors are stimulated. This stimulation can help reduce pain signals, improve proprioception (your body’s sense of position), and enhance nervous system communication with muscles and organs.
Circulatory Effects
Improved joint motion enhances blood flow to surrounding tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
What To Expect During Your Adjustment
Before the Adjustment
Dr. Higgins will conduct a thorough assessment to determine which specific joints require adjustment. This includes evaluating your range of motion, palpating the spine for restrictions, assessing muscle tension patterns, and considering your specific symptoms and goals.
During the Adjustment
You’ll be positioned comfortably, typically lying down on a specially designed chiropractic table. Dr. Higgins will position his hands or an instrument on the specific joint requiring adjustment and apply a quick, precise force to move the joint beyond its restricted range. You may hear a popping or cracking sound – this is simply gas being released from the joint and is completely normal. The entire process is typically painless and takes just a few moments per joint.
After the Adjustment
Most patients experience immediate relief or improvement in symptoms. Some may feel mild soreness similar to what you might experience after exercise. Dr. Higgins may recommend specific movements or activities to enhance the effects of your adjustment.
Benefits of Chiropractic Adjustments
Pain Relief
Adjustments are effective for addressing back and neck pain, headaches, joint discomfort, sciatica, and sports injuries. Our patients frequently report significant reduction in pain after just a few sessions.
Improved Function
Beyond pain relief, adjustments help enhance range of motion, improve posture, increase flexibility, optimize athletic performance, and support better balance and coordination. This improved function allows you to return to activities you enjoy with greater ease and comfort.
Whole-Body Benefits
Research suggests that chiropractic care may also reduce stress, improve sleep quality, enhance immune function, increase energy levels, and contribute to overall wellbeing. Many patients report feeling better overall, not just in the areas that were directly treated.
The Black Diamond Difference
At Black Diamond Chiropractic and Sports Performance, we integrate adjustments into our comprehensive care approach. Unlike practices that rely solely on adjustments, we combine this powerful technique with other evidence-based treatments to address all aspects of your condition.
We complement adjustments with soft tissue therapies to address muscle and fascia restrictions, rehabilitative exercises to strengthen supporting structures, education on proper movement patterns to maintain results, and sport-specific recommendations for athletes.
Dr. Higgins tailors each adjustment to your unique needs, body type, and condition. With his advanced training and experience, he utilizes various adjustment techniques to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
Is Chiropractic Adjustment Right For You?
Chiropractic adjustments can benefit people of all ages and activity levels, from infants to seniors, weekend warriors to professional athletes. They’re particularly effective for back and neck pain, headaches and migraines, sports injuries, joint dysfunction, posture-related issues, enhanced athletic performance, and preventative wellness care.
If you’re experiencing pain, restricted movement, or want to optimize your body’s function, a chiropractic adjustment may be an ideal starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are adjustments safe?
Yes, chiropractic adjustments are extremely safe when performed by a licensed, trained professional like Dr. Higgins. The risk of serious complications is exceedingly rare – lower than many common over-the-counter medications.
Do adjustments hurt?
What causes the popping sound?
How many adjustments will I need?
Can I adjust myself?
Take The First Step Toward Better Function
Experience the precision and effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments at Black Diamond Chiropractic and Sports Performance. As part of our comprehensive approach to care, adjustments can help you move better, feel better, and perform at your highest level.
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