What is a Manual Chiropractic Adjustment and is it Safe?
A chiropractic adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation, is a core technique used by chiropractors. It involves applying a controlled, sudden force to a spinal joint using the chiropractor's hands or a small instrument. The purpose is to improve the movement of the spine and restore proper alignment, which can help relieve pain and improve physical function. Adjustments can also be applied to other joints to address various musculoskeletal issues.
Chiropractic care is considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed chiropractor. While some patients may experience mild side effects such as soreness or stiffness, these are usually short-lived and minor. Serious complications are rare. Chiropractors undergo extensive education and training to ensure they perform adjustments safely and effectively, tailoring treatments to each patient's specific needs and health conditions.
What Do Manual Chiropractic Adjustments Treat?
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Back and neck pain
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Headaches and migraines
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Joint pain (shoulders, knees, hips)
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Sciatica
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Sports injuries
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Whiplash
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Scoliosis
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Carpal tunnel syndrome
Manual Chiropractic Benefits According to Science
There are many other benefits to manual chiropractic adjustments. Some of the benefits we typically see with at our Enumclaw office are:
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Strengthened immune system
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Improved joint mobility, functions, and greater health in general
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Reduced pain by decreasing inflammation and unlocking restricted joints
Strengthens your immune system
Chiropractic care has been associated with improved immune system function. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic adjustments can influence the nervous system, which in turn affects immune function. When the nervous system is optimized, it better coordinates the immune responses, helping the body fend off sickness and disease more effectively.
Improves your joint mobility, functionality and health in general
Manual chiropractic adjustments are widely recognized for improving joint mobility and overall functionality. Research published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine demonstrated that chiropractic care helps increase joint range of motion, reduces joint restrictions, and enhances overall joint health. This can lead to a more active lifestyle, allowing you to enjoy activities without the limitations of pain or restricted movement.
Reduces pain by decreasing inflammation and unlocking restricted joints
One of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care is to alleviate pain. Studies have shown that chiropractic adjustments can reduce inflammation and relieve pressure on restricted joints, leading to pain reduction.
A review in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that chiropractic care is effective in treating conditions like lower back pain, which often involves inflammation and joint restrictions. This reduction in pain allows for greater participation in physical activities, from sports to everyday family interactions.
Enumclaw Family Chiropractic's Manual Chiropractic Adjustment Process
Manual adjusting allows our chiropractors to restore your range of motion. Controlled, quick pressure to joints, push them beyond their restricted range of motion. Rather than a "one adjustment fits all approach", our chiropractors are able to assess what adjustments your body needs. This helps to correct misalignments or other problems specific to your body.​
Evaluation & physical exam
A session begins with evaluating your concerns and or symptoms. This is done so we can find the treatment that best fits your needs.
Choosing a customized treatment
Depending on the symptoms and your scenario, we then discuss what adjustment will work best for your needs and your daily life.
Treatment session begins
Most of our patients choose to lay on one of our massage traction tables which helps loosen the muscles before the adjustment.
Final massage
A massage is sometimes given with a vibracussor to massage the muscles for a minute or two. This massage sort of “fine tunes” the adjustment.