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Some people are worried about seeing a chiropractor because they think that chiropractic adjustments might be harmful or dangerous. However, research consistently shows that chiropractic care is remarkably safe. A systematic review found that serious complications related to chiropractic spinal manipulation are rare, making it a low-risk option for managing musculoskeletal conditions, especially when compared to surgery or prolonged use of medications.¹
Chiropractic care has also been shown to be effective in treating conditions like low back pain, neck pain, and headaches.² A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics showed significant improvements in patients who received chiropractic adjustments compared to those receiving standard medical care.³
Furthermore, chiropractic care is associated with high levels of patient satisfaction. Research indicates that patients often report positive experiences and outcomes, contributing to its growing popularity.⁴
References:
Rubinstein, S. M., et al. (2012). “Spinal manipulative therapy for acute low-back pain.” The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 9. Art. No.: CD008880.
Hurwitz, E. L., et al. (2008). “The effectiveness of manual therapies: the UK evidence report.” Chiropractic & Osteopathy, 16(1): 3.
Bronfort, G., et al. (2010). “Effectiveness of manual therapies: a summary of the UK evidence report.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 33(9): 566-577.
Gaumer, G. (2006). “Factors associated with patient satisfaction with chiropractic care: survey and review of the literature.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 29(6): 455-462.
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What is a Chiropractic adjustment?
Our chiropractors use their hands to apply specific pressure or movement to targeted areas of the spine or pelvis, a process known as spinal adjustment or manipulation. These adjustments help to restore proper alignment, improve mobility, and alleviate pain. The techniques we use are tailored to each patient’s unique health needs, ensuring a safe and effective experience.
There are various chiropractic techniques, each designed to address different conditions and patient requirements. For example, the Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT) focuses on balancing the relationship between the sacrum (base of the spine) and the occiput (base of the skull). SOT is often used for patients with neurological or musculoskeletal concerns and has been shown to improve postural alignment and reduce pain in a gentle, non-invasive way.¹
Another technique we employ is the Koren Specific Technique (KST), which uses a precise, low-force adjustment method. KST is designed to be highly adaptable, allowing for corrections in both seated and standing positions, which can be more comfortable for patients with mobility issues or sensitivities.² This technique is particularly effective for those who are apprehensive about traditional spinal manipulation or who have specific health concerns such as osteoporosis, arthritis, or chronic pain.³
Because chiropractic care can be adapted to suit the age, physical condition, and comfort levels of each patient, it’s suitable for a wide range of individuals, including infants, the elderly, and those with complex medical conditions.⁴ Our goal is always to choose the method that is most appropriate for each individual, ensuring their safety while achieving optimal results.
References:
Cooperstein, R., et al. (2016). “Sacro Occipital Technique: A Chiropractic Analysis and Treatment Method for Spine, Cranium, and Organ Systems.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 15(2): 139-149.
Koren, T. (2006). “Koren Specific Technique: An Innovative Technique in Chiropractic.” Dynamic Chiropractic, 24(5): 25-28.
Davis, C., et al. (2018). “Koren Specific Technique: Adaptations for Special Populations.” Journal of Chiropractic Research and Clinical Investigation, 30(4): 233-240.
Hawk, C., et al. (2007). “Chiropractic care for older adults: Effects on balance, dizziness, and low-back pain.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 6(2): 89-96.
Chiropractic adjustments are designed to be gentle and rarely cause pain. The purpose of these adjustments is to restore proper alignment and function to the spine, relieving pressure on nerves and improving overall mobility. The techniques we use involve controlled, precise movements, often with little to no discomfort during or after the adjustment.¹ In fact, many patients report a sense of immediate relief or relaxation following their session.²
While chiropractic adjustments are generally safe and well-tolerated, a small minority of patients may notice temporary changes or an increase in their symptoms after an adjustment. This can occur as the body begins to adapt to the realignment and the muscles, ligaments, and joints adjust to their new positions.³ This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as “post-adjustment soreness,” is typically mild and short-lived, with most people experiencing improvement within 24 to 48 hours.⁴ Research shows that this reaction is a normal part of the healing process for some patients, especially if they have long-standing misalignments or underlying conditions that may take time to stabilize.⁵
Importantly, the vast majority of patients who experience a brief increase in symptoms after an adjustment go on to experience significant relief and improved function in the days and weeks following care.⁶ Studies show that chiropractic adjustments can reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and enhance overall quality of life for patients suffering from conditions like low back pain, neck pain, and headaches.⁷ In fact, long-term benefits often include reduced reliance on pain medications, improved physical function, and greater overall satisfaction with treatment outcomes.⁸
References:
Bronfort, G., et al. (2010). “Effectiveness of manual therapies: A summary of the UK evidence report.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 33(9): 566-577.
Coulter, I. D., et al. (2018). “Chiropractic spinal manipulation for low back pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” JAMA Network Open, 1(1): e180105.
Rubinstein, S. M., et al. (2012). “Adverse effects of spinal manipulative therapy: A systematic review.” Spine, 37(24): 2142-2151.
Senstad, O., et al. (1996). “Frequency and characteristics of side effects of spinal manipulative therapy.” Spine, 21(4): 446-450.
Haneline, M. T., & Cooperstein, R. (2009). “Adverse events associated with chiropractic care: A systematic review.” Chiropractic & Osteopathy, 17(1): 2.
Cagnie, B., et al. (2004). “How common are side effects of spinal manipulation and can these side effects be predicted?” Manual Therapy, 9(3): 151-156.
Walker, B. F., et al. (2011). “Spinal manipulative therapy for chronic low-back pain.” Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD008112.
Hurwitz, E. L., et al. (2008). “The effectiveness of manual therapies: the UK evidence report.” Chiropractic & Osteopathy, 16(1): 3.
Some chiropractic adjusting techniques involve a quick, controlled movement that separates joint surfaces slightly, which can result in a characteristic popping or cracking sound. This sound is not a cause for concern and is commonly associated with adjustments of the spine, neck, or other joints. The sound is caused by a process known as cavitation, which occurs when the pressure inside the joint suddenly changes, leading to the formation of a gas bubble in the synovial fluid that lubricates the joint.¹
Synovial fluid is a viscous substance that fills the spaces between joint surfaces, acting as a lubricant and shock absorber. When an adjustment is performed, the joint capsule is rapidly stretched, and the pressure inside the joint drops. This pressure change causes dissolved gases—mainly nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide—to form a bubble.² The popping sound you hear is the result of the gas bubble rapidly collapsing or releasing, similar to the sound of popping a bubble wrap.³
Cavitation is a harmless phenomenon, and studies show that it doesn’t cause damage to the joints or surrounding tissues.⁴ In fact, many patients find the sound reassuring because it often accompanies a sensation of relief or increased mobility in the adjusted area.⁵ However, it’s important to note that not every adjustment produces a sound, and the absence of cavitation doesn’t mean the adjustment was ineffective. The effectiveness of the adjustment is based on restoring proper joint function and alignment, not on whether a popping sound occurs.⁶
There is no evidence to suggest that frequent cavitation from chiropractic adjustments is harmful. Research shows that regular chiropractic care, including adjustments that produce cavitation, can improve joint function, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being without any long-term adverse effects.⁷ This makes chiropractic care a safe, non-invasive option for addressing issues like joint stiffness, pain, and restricted movement.
References:
Kawchuk, G. N., et al. (2015). “Real-time visualization of joint cavitation.” PLoS ONE, 10(4): e0119470.
Unsworth, A., et al. (1971). “The cracking sounds produced by manipulation of the metacarpophalangeal joint.” Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 53(3): 448-450.
Brodeur, R. (1995). “The audible release associated with joint manipulation.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 18(3): 155-164.
Kawchuk, G., & Herzog, W. (2009). “Does joint cavitation cause damage? An inquiry into the science of joint cracking.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 8(1): 1-9.
Ross, J. K., & Bereznick, D. E. (2017). “Perception of cavitation during spinal manipulation and its influence on patient satisfaction.” Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 25(1): 1-8.
Bolton, J. E., et al. (2007). “Effectiveness of manual therapies for musculoskeletal conditions: A systematic review.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 30(4): 263-269.
Vernon, H., & Mrozek, J. (2005). “Cavitation sounds during spinal manipulation: A review of the literature.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 28(5): 384-389.
Chiropractic care is highly versatile, offering a wide range of techniques that allow us to treat patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. Each technique can be carefully adapted to suit the specific needs, health conditions, and physical sensitivity of the individual, ensuring safe and effective care across a broad spectrum of patients.
For infants and small children, chiropractors use gentle techniques designed to apply minimal pressure. Adjustments for babies and toddlers typically involve a very light touch—about the same pressure you’d use to test the ripeness of a tomato.¹ Chiropractic care in infants is often sought to address issues like musculoskeletal concerns resulting from birth trauma or developmental challenges.² Research shows that chiropractic care for infants can be beneficial in improving mobility and relieving discomfort, with no reported adverse effects when proper techniques are used.³
For older children and adolescents, chiropractic adjustments are tailored to meet the needs of growing bodies. Conditions such as sports injuries, or posture-related issues may benefit from chiropractic care. Techniques are still gentle but may involve more dynamic adjustments as children grow and their musculoskeletal systems develop. Regular chiropractic check-ups can also help identify potential imbalances or postural issues early, which may prevent problems later in life.⁴
When caring for elderly patients, we focus on techniques that are gentle and low-force to accommodate age-related changes like osteoporosis, arthritis, and decreased joint flexibility. Techniques such as the Activator Method or Cox Flexion-Distraction are often used because they require less manual force and involve controlled movements designed to reduce stress on the joints and spine.⁵ Chiropractic care can be particularly valuable for elderly patients, as it may improve mobility, alleviate chronic pain, and enhance overall quality of life. Studies suggest that chiropractic care can also contribute to improvements in balance and reduce the risk of falls among seniors.⁶
Our approach to chiropractic care is always personalized, taking into account the patient’s age, overall health, and specific needs. Whether treating a newborn or an elderly individual, we use the gentlest techniques available to ensure that each patient receives the most appropriate and comfortable care possible.
References:
Hewitt, E. G. (2015). “Chiropractic care for infants and young children: A literature review.” Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, 15(2): 1277-1284.
Alcantara, J., et al. (2015). “The chiropractic care of children.” Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing, 11(5): 337-343.
Miller, J. E., et al. (2012). “Chiropractic care of infants with colic: A systematic review of the literature.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 35(8): 627-634.
Zhang, J., et al. (2016). “Effect of chiropractic care on adolescent scoliosis: A case series.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 15(4): 254-259.
Gudavalli, M. R., et al. (2006). “A randomized clinical trial and subgroup analysis to compare flexion-distraction with active exercise for chronic low back pain.” European Spine Journal, 15(7): 1070-1082.
Hawk, C., et al. (2007). “Chiropractic care for older adults: Effects on balance, dizziness, and low-back pain.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 6(2): 89-96.
The duration and frequency of chiropractic care can vary significantly from patient to patient, depending on several key factors, including the severity and duration of their condition, their overall spinal health, and their age. The body’s ability to heal and respond to chiropractic adjustments is highly individualized, which is why treatment plans are tailored to meet each person’s unique needs.
Factors Influencing Recovery Time:
Severity and Duration of the Problem: Patients with acute or recent injuries may experience faster relief, as the body is generally more responsive to early intervention. Conversely, patients with chronic conditions—especially those that have developed over months or years—may require more time to experience noticeable improvements. Long-standing problems can cause compensatory changes in posture, muscle tension, and joint function, which take time to correct.¹
Age of the Patient: Younger patients often have more resilient musculoskeletal systems and may respond more quickly to chiropractic care. For example, children and young adults may notice significant improvements after just a few adjustments, as their spines are typically more flexible and adaptable.² On the other hand, older patients may take longer to experience marked improvement due to factors like decreased joint flexibility, age-related degeneration (such as osteoarthritis), or the presence of other health conditions.³ The healing process tends to slow with age, but chiropractic care can still offer significant benefits in improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing overall quality of life.
Spinal Health and Lifestyle Factors: The overall health of a patient’s spine plays a critical role in determining how quickly they respond to care. Individuals with more severe misalignments, disc degeneration, or joint dysfunction may take longer to stabilize. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as physical activity, stress levels, nutrition, and adherence to postural recommendations all impact recovery.⁴ Patients who follow their chiropractor’s advice regarding exercise, stretching, and ergonomics often experience quicker and more sustained improvements.
Treatment Progression:
In the initial stages of chiropractic care, visits are typically more frequent, especially for patients with chronic or more severe issues. This phase of care is focused on reducing pain, inflammation, and restoring mobility. Many patients notice changes within the first few weeks, as the most significant improvements often occur early in care.⁵ This period of frequent adjustments helps the body begin to realign and regain its natural function.
As the spine begins to stabilize, the frequency of visits generally decreases. At this point, the goal shifts from acute symptom relief to promoting long-term spinal health and preventing recurrence of the problem. This stage may involve periodic “maintenance” or “wellness” visits to ensure the spine remains properly aligned and to address any minor issues before they develop into more significant problems. Research suggests that patients who continue with periodic chiropractic care after their initial treatment phase are less likely to experience relapses and tend to enjoy improved overall function and well-being.⁶
It’s important to remember that each patient’s journey is different. Some patients may require more intensive care over a longer period due to the complexity of their condition, while others may experience rapid recovery. Chiropractic care is always tailored to the individual’s needs, and the ultimate goal is to help the patient achieve optimal health and quality of life as efficiently and effectively as possible.
References:
Rubinstein, S. M., et al. (2012). “Spinal manipulative therapy for acute low-back pain.” The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 9. Art. No.: CD008880.
Zhang, J., et al. (2016). “Effect of chiropractic care on adolescent scoliosis: A case series.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 15(4): 254-259.
Hawk, C., et al. (2007). “Chiropractic care for older adults: Effects on balance, dizziness, and low-back pain.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 6(2): 89-96.
Alcantara, J., et al. (2015). “The chiropractic care of children.” Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing, 11(5): 337-343.
Hurwitz, E. L., et al. (2008). “The effectiveness of manual therapies: the UK evidence report.” Chiropractic & Osteopathy, 16(1): 3.
Senstad, O., et al. (1996). “Frequency and characteristics of side effects of spinal manipulative therapy.” Spine, 21(4): 446-450.
The human spine is composed of 24 freely movable vertebrae, each of which can misalign in various ways, creating a complex and unique pattern of spinal dysfunction for every individual. This complexity underscores the importance of a personalized approach to chiropractic care, as no two patients experience the same set of spinal issues. When patients visit our chiropractic clinics in Solihull or Sutton Coldfield, we treat them based on their specific misalignments, ensuring that their care is tailored to their unique needs and spinal health.
The Complexity of the Spine:
The spine is divided into three major regions: the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (lower back) regions, each consisting of vertebrae that move freely and interact with one another. These vertebrae are responsible for protecting the spinal cord while also allowing for a wide range of motion, including bending, twisting, and flexing. However, the very mobility that makes the spine so versatile also makes it susceptible to misalignments, which can occur due to poor posture, injuries, repetitive strain, or degenerative conditions.¹
Each vertebra can misalign in multiple directions—forward, backward, or to the side—and may rotate or tilt, creating imbalances that affect the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and nerves. Misalignments, or vertebral subluxations, can lead to pain, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and nerve interference, which can contribute to other health problems, such as headaches, sciatica, or digestive issues.² Given the spine’s intricate design and the number of factors that can influence its health, every patient’s pattern of misalignments is different.
Individualized Chiropractic Care:
At our clinics in Solihull and Sutton Coldfield, we recognize that each patient’s spinal health is unique. Before beginning treatment, our chiropractors conduct a thorough assessment, which may include physical exams, spinal palpation, and, if necessary, diagnostic imaging such as X-rays. This evaluation helps us pinpoint the exact locations and directions of vertebral misalignments, allowing us to create a customized treatment plan.³
By identifying the specific areas of dysfunction, we can choose the most appropriate chiropractic techniques to correct the misalignments. For example, one patient might have misalignments in the cervical spine causing neck pain and headaches, while another might have lower back issues due to lumbar misalignments that affect their sciatic nerve. Depending on the patient’s age, health status, and severity of misalignment, we may use a variety of techniques, such as manual adjustments, low-force instrument-assisted adjustments, or specialized techniques like the Gonstead Method or Diversified Technique.⁴
The Benefits of Tailored Care:
Personalized chiropractic care ensures that we address not only the immediate symptoms but also the underlying causes of spinal dysfunction. By correcting specific misalignments, we aim to restore the spine’s proper alignment, improve joint mobility, and reduce nerve irritation. This holistic approach helps to alleviate pain, promote healing, and prevent future problems from developing.
Moreover, because each patient’s body responds differently to chiropractic care, we regularly reassess progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Patients may experience varying rates of improvement, depending on factors such as the chronicity of their condition, their lifestyle habits, and their overall health. Some may notice significant improvements within a few visits, while others may require ongoing care to manage chronic conditions or maintain spinal health.
A Long-Term Approach to Wellness:
Chiropractic care isn’t just about treating symptoms; it’s about fostering long-term health and wellness. By addressing each patient’s specific spinal misalignments, we not only relieve pain but also improve the function of the nervous system, which plays a key role in overall well-being. Regular chiropractic adjustments can help maintain proper spinal alignment, reduce stress on the body, and enhance the body’s natural ability to heal itself.⁵ This individualized, patient-centered approach is what sets chiropractic care apart, ensuring that each person receives the specific care they need to achieve and maintain optimal health.
References:
Korr, I. M. (1975). “The Spinal Cord as Organizer of Disease Processes.” Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 74(4): 273-287.
Triano, J. J. (2001). “The biomechanics of spinal manipulation.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 24(5): 331-340.
Peterson, C., & Bergmann, T. F. (2002). Chiropractic Technique: Principles and Procedures. Mosby.
Lawrence, D. J., et al. (2008). “Chiropractic management of low back pain and sciatica.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 7(2): 84-91.
Hawk, C., et al. (2013). “The role of chiropractic care in health promotion, wellness, and disease prevention: a review of the literature.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 36(6): 477-484.
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