Chiropractic plays a vital role to treat and prevent your pain and injuries that interfere with your daily routines. The Chiropractic Adjustment aka ‘crack’ or spinal manipulation is a safe and effective treatment option for back pain, neck pain and leg and arm complaints.
Sarah, a 35-year-old working professional in Mississauga, had been struggling with chronic lower back pain for several years. The pain began as a dull ache but gradually intensified, affecting her ability to sit for extended periods, concentrate at work, and participate in her favourite physical activities. She tried various remedies, including pain medications, physical therapy, and massage, but the relief was only temporary.
Determined to find a long-lasting solution, Sarah decided to explore chiropractic care and sought help looking for a chiropractor that was also near her in Mississauga. She discovered Innova Integrated Wellness Centre and after some research she decided that this chiropractic clinic in Mississauga was a good fit for her.
After a few sessions of care including chiropractic adjustments Sarah noted that her back pain was much better and was able to tolerate sitting for long periods without discomfort. After a few months of following a home care plan, Sarah was pleased to report that she continued to experience long lasting effects. Much more than she had experienced with other therapies.
Sarah’s success story is just one example of how chiropractic care at Innova Integrated Wellness Centre has helped individuals overcome back pain and improve their overall well-being and quality of life. Through personalized treatment plans and expert chiropractic adjustments, patients like Sarah can experience life-changing results and embrace a healthier, pain-free lifestyle.
What is a Chiropractic Adjustment?
It’s funny to hear sometimes what some people think chiropractic adjustments are or do. I recall a couple instances where I’ve been at networking or social events in Mississauga where I’ve been introduced to some as “my doc who cracks my neck” or “my doc who cracks my bones”. I often get a chuckle out of it as does everyone else.
Contrary to popular belief, an adjustment is not cracking anything. No bones are broken or cracked with an adjustment. Adjustments are a technique used to move a joint that is not moving well. A Chiropractic Adjustment is a hand-on technique that forms part of a Chiropractor’s treatment plan.
So what is that big ‘crack’ or ‘popping’ sound you hear? Have you ever cracked your knuckles? The adjustment feels similar. The joints in your spine, much like the joints in your fingers are contained within a joint capsule. This joint capsule protects the joint and contains fluid and sometimes tiny bubbles of air. When the joint undergoes compression, these air bubbles can release leading to that ‘cracking’ sound.
So chiropractic adjustments are not actually “cracking joints” as many of my patients refer, rather than moving a joint/joints that are not moving well. And, the sounds that occur is just air being released under pressure. Sorry to burst your bubble!
Chiropractic adjustments are a safe and effective therapy and when applied to specific joints it can help to relieve pain, stiffness, tension and improve range of motion.
Some refer to the adjustment as the entire treatment. However, more often than not, adjustment to the spine or arms and legs are used in combination with:
- Soft tissue (muscle, tendon, nerve) release techniques
- Joint mobilisation techniques
- Electrotherapy
- Heat or Cold Therapy
- Acupuncture
- Laser therapy
- Prescription stretches/exercises
- Ultrasound therapy
- Patient education and recommendations for lifestyle, diet, ergonomics, and more
Why see a Chiropractor?
Low back/pelvic pain, neck pain and headache are the most common problems for which people seek chiropractic adjustment.
Generally speaking, Doctors of Chiropractic (DC) are spine, muscle, joint and nervous (nerve) system experts. They work on the Neuromusculoskeletal system.
As part of your overall treatment, the chiropractic adjustment can help your recovery from:
- Accidents
- Sport injuries
- Headaches and Migraines
- Repetitive Strain Injuries
- Posture-related Issues
- Disc bulges/herniation
- Nerve impingement syndromes (ie: Sciatica)
- And much more
Chiropractic care offers numerous benefits for individuals who are not experiencing physical pain. By maintaining proper spinal alignment and optimising nervous system function, chiropractic adjustments can enhance overall well-being and promote better health. Improved nerve communication supports various bodily functions, leading to better immune system function, increased energy levels, improved sleep quality, and better mental clarity. Additionally, chiropractic care can serve as a preventive measure, helping individuals proactively address any underlying structural issues before they manifest as pain or discomfort, thus contributing to a healthier and more active lifestyle in the long run.
Chiropractors also work together and collaboratively with your other health providers to manage your health challenges. Chiropractic adjustments can be an alternative or used together with ‘conventional’ medicine.
What Are The Risk and Benefits of a Chiropractic Adjustment?
As with any medical procedure, all types of therapies including the adjustment come with certain risks.
Weighing the pros/cons of any treatment is always advisable.
Chiropractic adjustments offer benefits for various musculoskeletal conditions, including back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Evidence supports their effectiveness in providing short-term pain relief and improving functional outcomes and many patients report feeling relief or improvement after treatment.
However, like any medical intervention, chiropractic adjustments carry inherent risks. While serious complications are rare, some adverse effects, such as temporary soreness or mild discomfort may be experienced. Which may occur and is normal as I tell my patients.
In certain cases, you may feel worse before you feel better, and as I tell my patients, this is also ok! We are assessing areas that are sensitive and performing movements that aim to reproduce your pain symptoms in order to get to the root cause of your pain. In addition, your body is naturally working on healing itself. With increased blood flow to the area with healing and repair, it may feel uncomfortable. As a result, your pain symptoms may become worse before they get better. Increased pain after treatment is not necessarily an indication that your condition is worsening, rather that your body is undergoing changes to heal. It is important to communicate any concerns you have aftercare so that your practitioner can advise you appropriately.
Studies suggest that when performed by licensed and experienced chiropractors, the benefits of chiropractic adjustments generally outweigh the risks for most patients. It is crucial for individuals to consult with qualified professionals and discuss their medical history before undergoing care to ensure safety and appropriateness.
5 Tips and Reminders for a safe and effective Chiropractic Adjustment
Remember all the questions your chiropractor/doctor asks before your physical exam?
Well, some of those questions are to assess your risk for side effects of therapy. Answering these questions completely allows your chiropractor to make the most accurate risk assessment and plan alternative treatment or referrals if necessary.
1. Tell your chiropractor if you’re taking any medications.
Medications like blood thinners or birth control pills can put you at an increased risk for bleeds or stroke.
2. Do mention if you have a history of stroke, arthritis and other medical conditions.
A previous history of stroke or clots can put you at greater risk for a second stroke. Some
medical conditions can also put you at greater risk for brittle bones, slow wound healing or
increased pain after getting adjusted.
3. Communicate Any Recent Injuries or Trauma.
Inform your chiropractor about any recent accidents, injuries, or trauma you may have experienced, even if they seem unrelated to your current concern. This information helps the chiropractor assess your condition comprehensively and tailor the treatment plan accordingly.
4. Stay Hydrated.
Adequate hydration is crucial before and after a chiropractic adjustment. Water plays a vital role in maintaining the suppleness of your joints and soft tissues. Staying hydrated can help optimise the benefits of the adjustment and reduce the risk of post-adjustment soreness.
5. Follow Post-Adjustment Recommendations.
Your chiropractor may provide specific post-adjustment guidelines to enhance the effects of the treatment and promote faster recovery. This may include advice on proper posture, stretching exercises, or activities to avoid temporarily. Adhering to these recommendations can maximise the benefits of the adjustment and reduce the risk of re-injury.
Chiropractic treatments do not involve medication or surgery and promote health, quality of life and prevention.
Clients that choose chiropractic adjustments as part of their overall care report decrease pain, improved function, enjoyment and participation in previously stopped activities.
With chiropractic care at Innova Integrated Wellness Centre, we strive to make a significant difference in patients’ lives in our Mississauga and surrounding community, providing long-lasting relief from chronic back pain and improving overall well-being. With personalised treatment plans and skilled chiropractic adjustments, individuals like Sarah can achieve life-changing results and embrace a healthier, pain-free lifestyle, just as she did.
What next?
Experience effective and personalised chiropractic care at Innova Integrated Wellness Centre in Streetsville, Mississauga. Regain your mobility, alleviate pain, and improve your overall well-being. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free life.
We also offer a FREE 15-minute consultation, in-person and virtual.
Contact us to book your appointments or book online.
FAQ’s
Is a chiropractic back adjustment safe?
Chiropractic back adjustments, when performed by a licensed and experienced chiropractor, are considered safe for the majority of patients. Chiropractors undergo extensive training to ensure proper techniques and safety protocols are followed during adjustments. However, like any medical procedure, there may be some inherent risks. Common side effects after an adjustment might include temporary soreness or stiffness, but serious complications are rare. Chiropractors carefully assess each patient’s medical history and perform a thorough examination before initiating any treatment to ensure the suitability of chiropractic care for their specific condition.
Is a chiropractic adjustment painful?
There is little to no pain involved in a chiropractic adjustment. You may feel pops and cracks, but you should not feel any intense pain. Some chiropractic patients do experience some mild soreness or minor aches after a visit.
How does chiropractic back adjustment work to relieve back pain?
Chiropractic back adjustments are designed to address issues related to spinal misalignment or subluxations, which can cause nerve irritation and lead to back pain. During an adjustment, the chiropractor uses controlled and precise force to manipulate the spine, bringing it back into proper alignment. By doing so, pressure on the nerves is reduced, and blood flow, joint mobility, and nervous system function are improved. This realignment can help alleviate pain, reduce muscle tension, and promote the body’s natural healing processes. Chiropractic care is often sought for conditions such as lower back pain, sciatica, herniated discs, and muscle strain, with many patients experiencing relief and improved mobility after a series of adjustments.
