Also known as Spinal Manipulative Therapy, Chiropractic Adjustments are the hallmark of the Chiropractic profession.  They involve a small amount of pressure or amplitude applied at high speed to cause the specific joint to cavitate or “crack”.  The cracking noise is simply gas that builds up in the joint fluid being released into the joint cavity.  The purpose of these adjustments is to produce an increased amount of movement to that specific joint, beyond its current parameters, with the intention of creating improved function of the spine and greater general movement.

In order to determine if a Chiropractic adjustment is necessary, careful assessment is undertaken.  This may involve palpation (feeling the amount of movement in the joint) and doing orthopaedic and functional tests.  Once found to be appropriate, the Chiropractor will deliver the adjustment to the specific location in the direction that is appropriate.

Chiropractic adjustments can be applied to the neck, thoracic spine, lower back region and the pelvis, and are found to be very safe.  Should you suffer from any health condition, such as significant osteoporosis, the Chiropractor will determine the technique that is appropriate in your individual case.