Complete Guide to Chiropractic Adjustments: What to Expect and How They Work
If you have never visited a chiropractor before, you may have questions about what a chiropractic adjustment involves and whether it could be right for you. Chiropractic care is commonly used to address problems involving the muscles, joints, spine, and movement of the body.
At Slone Healthcare Clinics, patients throughout Norfolk, Richmond, and Hampton, VA receive personalized chiropractic and rehabilitation care based on their individual symptoms, needs, and treatment goals.
What Is a Chiropractic Adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment, also called spinal manipulation, is a hands-on technique used to improve the movement of joints that may be restricted or not moving properly.
Joint restrictions can develop for many reasons, including poor posture, injuries, repetitive movements, prolonged sitting, physical activity, or everyday wear and tear.
During an adjustment, a chiropractor applies a controlled force to a specific joint or area of the spine. The goal is to help improve joint mobility, reduce restriction, and support more comfortable movement.
Learn more about Spinal Manipulative Therapy at Slone Healthcare Clinics.
What Happens During a Chiropractic Appointment?
Your first chiropractic visit typically begins with a conversation about your symptoms, medical history, previous injuries, and any activities that may be contributing to your discomfort.
Your chiropractor may also perform an examination to evaluate areas such as your posture, range of motion, strength, joint movement, and overall function. Depending on your condition, additional diagnostic testing may be recommended.
If chiropractic adjustments are appropriate for you, your provider will explain the recommended treatment plan before beginning care.
Treatment may involve traditional hands-on adjustments or gentler techniques depending on your condition and comfort level. Slone Healthcare Clinics also offers instrument-assisted adjustments for patients who may prefer a lower-force approach.
What Does a Chiropractic Adjustment Feel Like?
Many patients describe chiropractic adjustments as quick and comfortable. You may feel pressure or movement around the joint being treated.
You may also hear a popping or cracking sound during an adjustment. This sound can occur when gas is released from a joint and does not necessarily indicate whether an adjustment was successful.
Some people experience mild soreness following treatment, especially after their first adjustment. Your chiropractor can explain what to expect based on your individual treatment.
Why Do People Visit a Chiropractor?
People seek chiropractic care for many different reasons. Some are experiencing pain following an injury, while others have discomfort that has gradually developed over time.
Common reasons patients may visit a chiropractor include:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Joint stiffness
- Reduced range of motion
- Muscle tension
- Sports or work-related injuries
- Auto accident injuries
- Headaches associated with musculoskeletal problems
- Posture-related discomfort
- Difficulty moving comfortably during everyday activities
Chiropractic care may also be combined with rehabilitation and therapeutic exercise to improve strength, mobility, and overall function.
You can explore additional chiropractic and rehabilitation services available at Slone Healthcare Clinics.
Chiropractic Care Near You in Virginia
Finding a chiropractor close to home can make it easier to stay consistent with your treatment plan.
Slone Healthcare Clinics provides chiropractic and rehabilitation care at convenient locations throughout the region.
Patients looking for a chiropractor in Norfolk, VA can visit the Norfolk clinic on W. Virginia Beach Boulevard.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Adjustments
Are chiropractic adjustments painful?
Adjustments are generally performed using controlled techniques based on the patient's condition and comfort level. Some patients may experience temporary soreness afterward.
How many chiropractic adjustments will I need?
There is no single treatment schedule that works for everyone. The number and frequency of visits depend on your symptoms, diagnosis, treatment goals, and response to care.
Do all chiropractic adjustments involve cracking?
No. Different chiropractic techniques can be used depending on the patient's needs and preferences. Slone Healthcare Clinics offers both traditional spinal manipulation and lower-force instrument-assisted techniques.
Can chiropractic care include more than adjustments?
Yes. Chiropractic treatment may be combined with rehabilitation, therapeutic exercise, soft tissue treatment, dry needling, proprioceptive training, and other services when appropriate.
Should I see a chiropractor for back or neck pain?
Chiropractors commonly evaluate musculoskeletal conditions involving the back and neck. An examination can help determine the source of your symptoms and whether chiropractic treatment may be appropriate for you.
Schedule a Chiropractic Appointment
Whether you are dealing with back pain, neck discomfort, an injury, limited mobility, or simply want to better understand your treatment options, the team at Slone Healthcare Clinics can help determine an appropriate plan for your needs.
With chiropractic and rehabilitation locations in Norfolk, Richmond, and Hampton, VA, personalized care is available close to home.
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