The central feature of any
Chiropractic treatment is the so-called ‘Chiropractic adjustment’.
It is a form of manipulation but differs in that it is highly
specific: a short, sharp, shallow thrust that causes the joint to ‘cavitate’.
The sudden distraction of the joint causes a sudden drop in
pressure, with the result that bubbles of nitrogen come out of
solution. The result is a popping sound, not unlike the sound
produced from a knuckle, followed by a dramatic increase in the
movement in the joint.
When a Chiropractor treats you, you will hear
these crackling sounds, and it may surprise, even scare you at
first, particularly in the neck where the joints are very close to
the ears. There is no need to be afraid; it is a remarkably safe
procedure. Unlike conventional medical care, serious side-effects
are extremely rare.
Mostly, Chiropractic treatment of the joints of
your body is relatively painless. When treating very acute
conditions like disc injuries in the neck or back there may be some
pain, but this is not usually severe. You may have ‘after-pain’
after the first few treatments but even this is relatively uncommon.
Occasionally a severe, temporary reaction to the treatment may
occur, even lasting a few days, but this is not common.
However, subluxations of the spine, irritating
nerves, often cause painful joints in the so-called extremities. A
frozen shoulder, a tennis elbow, a capsulitis of the hip or a
piriformis syndrome, for example. Treatment of these muscular
conditions may be very painful, but your chiropractor will always
also treat the underlying cause in your neck or back, and may
question you about your work and play: RSI or Repetitive Strain
Injuries is a common cause.
The pelvis and spine is an extremely complex
organ with the result that many different forms of Chiropractic
treatment have evolved, each having their merits. So you will find
Chiropractors who use blocks under your hips, others who use an
‘activator’, or ‘drop pieces’and many who use electrical devices of
one sort or another, massage, exercise and other therapies. Some
will suit your particular condition better than others.
The treatment of babies is very gentle. There
are now thousands and thousands of mums who will attest to the
efficacy of chiropractic in the treatment of colic.
Chiropractic has always had a close association
with Naturopathy, so don’t be surprised if your chiropractor takes
an interest in your diet, how much you exercise and has some strong
words to say on smoking and obesity. Something as common as
constipation can ruin and shorten your life.
