When a patient has a subluxation, chiropractic adjustment can be used to correct the misalignment, which in turn helps enhance joint mobility, reduce pain, reduce muscle spasm, and reduce nerve irritation or impingement. Chiropractic adjustment is a highly refined skill acquired during years of intensive training. The technique involves the manual application of a controlled force into the spinal vertebrae which have become misaligned and hypo mobile (limited in their range of motion). This procedure corrects vertebral alignment and is often accompanied by a clicking sound. While this sound might surprise first time chiropractic patients, it is merely the audible release of gas from within the spinal joints.
Furthermore, the procedure rarely causes discomfort or pain. In fact, many patients report a sense of immediate relief associated with the chiropractic adjustment and often note positive changes in their symptoms shortly after receiving care. If discomfort is experienced it is typically minor and resolves within a matter of days. To achieve optimal results patients may receive several adjustments over multiple chiropractic visits. In addition to chiropractic adjustments, the care plan may also include massage and functional restoration exercises.