Have you ever slept “wrong” and then had back or neck pain all day? Or maybe you picked something up off the floor and have sudden pain in your lower back? Simply living life can bring about unexpected pain. Chiropractic can help fix life’s surprising pains. However, if you’ve never had a chiropractic adjustment you might be intimidated by them. Does a chiropractic adjustment hurt? Let’s find out all you need to know about chiropractic adjustments.
What is a Chiropractic Adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a procedure that can be recommended by a licensed chiropractor. It involves applying pressure on your back to realign your spinal column. The chiropractor usually uses their hands or a small implement called an activator to move your joints in a quick and precise action. The realignment can ease your pain, as well as promote better posture and improve your body’s physical function.
Does a Chiropractic Adjustment Hurt?
Patients may experience a bit of a surprise at the sudden movements, but the anticipation of pain is usually the hardest factor to get over. You may feel some soreness for a day or two after, but that’s normal. The soreness some patients get has been related to the feeling you get after a rigorous exercise. That makes sense, since, after a chiropractic adjustment your body will be moving differently than before. However, adjustments done without a professional may hurt or cause harm. Make sure you’re getting a chiropractic adjustment from a licensed professional.
What to Expect from a Chiropractic Adjustment
When you arrive at the chiropractor’s office, after completing your new patient intake form, you’ll be brought to a private exam room just like a normal doctor’s appointment. The room will have a treatment table that is fully cleaned and sanitized between each patient. The chiropractor will then talk with you about your current health and possible concerns or pains you may have. They’ll talk with you about treatment options and your medical history. The chiropractor may also ask to see any previous x-rays or imaging. After this discussion, the chiropractor will begin their initial new patient exam while explaining what they’ll be doing. During the procedure, you may hear cracks or pops, similar to cracking your knuckles, but that’s normal. The sound produced is called cavitation and is produced by the joint surfaces opening slightly as the proper alignment of the joint is achieved. After the procedure, the chiropractor will go over how you feel and how you can expect to feel in the coming hours. They will also determine if you’ll need additional adjustments and discuss a treatment plan with you. Our offices also apply therapy and muscular techniques to aid the corrected areas to hold the proper alignment better and longer.
Summary
A chiropractic adjustment applied by a licensed professional typically will not hurt. Cracks and pops during the procedure, as well as some mild soreness after, are completely normal. Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve pain and support your whole body function as the nervous system is cleared of any blockages allowing proper nerve function and healing. If you’d like to set up an appointment for a chiropractic adjustment or would like more advice visit us at one of our offices, in Erie or in Longmont. The Chiropractic Center of Erie and Chiropractic Center of Longmont treat the body holistically with our award-winning treatment process to help your body achieve and maintain optimal performance.
As a licensed chiropractor in Erie and Longmont, we specialize in treating patients suffering from back pain and have helped several patients find relief without the need for surgery. If you’d like to learn more about chiropractic care in Longmont or Erie or have questions about what to expect during your first chiropractor visit in Erie or Longmont, call our offices today at 303-828-3000 or 303-772-1950!
