When a vertebra in your spine has a subluxation (becomes misaligned), it creates nerve pressure. This misalignment disrupts the nerve signal to the affected area of the body, which can cause pain, tension, and limited mobility, as well as negatively impacting overall function. Chiropractic adjustments correct misalignment in the spine and other extremities in order to restore the afflicted areas.

Chiropractic adjustments are performed by licensed chiropractors who use their hands or a small instrument to provide a quick thrust, using minimal force to a specific spinal joint in order to remove a subluxation and restore the function of the afflicted area.

The three basic causes are physical, emotional, or chemical. Physical causes include motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports injuries, improper lifting, computer work, and repetitive motions. Emotional causes can include stress, fear, and anger. Chemical causes can be attributed to poor diet, drugs, and alcohol. Subluxations can be due to one or more of these basic causes, or even a combination of all three.

Typically if you have a subluxation you will have pain or tenderness along the spine or joint. You will experience a restricted range of motion as well as muscle tightness or stiffness.

Subluxations can also be present without any of these symptoms, so a thorough chiropractic exam is highly recommended in order to accurately locate and treat spinal subluxations.

Typically chiropractic adjustments are not painful, but you may experience some soreness afterwards. Usually the soreness is comparable to how you would feel after working out at the gym for the first time in several months. This soreness does not typically persist after the first adjustment.

Yes; chiropractic adjustment is safe when it’s performed by someone trained and licensed to deliver chiropractic care. Regular adjustments can reduce the need for pain medication and even help you avoid the need for certain surgeries.

The popping noise is caused by gases and fluids shifting within the joint during the adjustment.

There is only an association between chiropractic adjustments and strokes. Serious complications associated with chiropractic adjustments are rare. A thorough chiropractic exam is performed before an adjustment to help identify any individuals who may not be suitable for chiropractic care.