Chiropractic Therapy (Spinal Manipulation)

Chiropractic therapy or spinal manipulation is a non-surgical procedure or "hands-on" technique in which trained specialists (chiropractors) use their hands or a device to apply a controlled thrust to one of the joints of your spine to relieve pain.  The main objective of the procedure is to enhance joint motion and function.

Spinal manipulation is based on the belief that misalignments in the spinal joints interfere with the nervous system, resulting in pain and disorders of the spine. It works on the principle of this manual, hands-on manipulation technique to adjust these imbalances and misalignments in the joints, especially in the spinal column.

Chiropractic doctors usually treat problems of the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system is made up of a person’s muscles, bones, joints, cartilage, and tendons. However, the main focus of chiropractic therapy is spine care.

Indications 

Chiropractic therapy or spinal manipulation is commonly employed to treat painful conditions involving the spine such as lower back pain. It is mainly used as an alternative treatment to reduce or eliminate pain and improve overall spine functionality.

Chiropractic therapy can also be used to treat:

• Neck pain
• Headaches and migraines
• Arm and shoulder pain
• Leg and hip pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Overuse injuries
• Strains and sprains
• Sports and work-related injuries

Contraindications

Chiropractic therapy/spinal manipulation is not recommended for individuals with any of the following:

• Severe arthritis
• Severe osteoporosis (thinning of the bones)
• Joint or bone infections
• Cancer of the spine
• Bone fractures
• Vascular or bleeding disorders
• Neurological issues, like pinched nerves or spinal cord compression

Preparation

At your first visit, your chiropractor will review your health history and perform a thorough physical examination with special attention to your spine. Lab tests or diagnostic imaging may also be ordered to determine if spinal manipulation is appropriate for your condition. The screening process undertaken by your chiropractor is meant to assess if you might be at risk of any underlying condition that would put you at high risk for spinal manipulation. Make sure to discuss your past medical history and all your symptoms with your chiropractor.

Procedure

During a standard chiropractic therapy/spinal manipulation, your chiropractor typically places you in a face-down position on a specially designed, padded table to manipulate your spine. Your chiropractor uses their hands to apply a controlled and sudden force to the muscles, bones, and joints of the spine, pushing it beyond its normal range of motion. During the course of this, your muscles are pulled and stretched in various directions, and your spine joints are gradually moved into different positions. You may hear cracking or popping sounds as your chiropractor manipulates your joints during the session. Even though manipulations are most often done on the spine, other regions of the body may also be treated in this fashion.

Many chiropractors who perform spinal manipulation also use additional therapies to complement the treatment plan, including ice, heat, massage, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation. Discuss treatment options with your chiropractor before starting therapy to determine a plan that is right for you.

Risks and Complications

Although chiropractic therapy is a safe treatment, some risks and side effects may occur, such as:

• Pain
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Stiffness
• Temporary soreness at the manipulation site
• Slipped disc

Summary

Chiropractic therapy/spinal manipulation involves hands or other devices manipulating joints in the spine. Some of the benefits include reduced chronic back pain, improved body function, and short-term pain relief. The objective of this therapy is to improve spinal motion and improve your body's physical function. This form of therapy aims to enhance mobility to relieve ailments such as lower back pain.