Doctors of Chiropractic (DC) specialize in treating injuries of the musculoskeletal system. While certain injuries are the result of frank trauma, such as falling from a ladder, or being rear-ended by a car, most injuries often occur over a period of time secondary to repetitive stress (e.g. working at a computer, sitting/standing, or using a wrench all day). While DCs are most commonly known for treating low back pain, neck pain, and headaches, their skill set also lends itself to the treatment of extremity disorders (carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, bursitis, etc.). In either situation, the joints, muscles, and ligaments of the injured area become inflamed, restricted, weak, and spastic. This is where the chiropractic adjustment/manipulation comes into play.
The chiropractic adjustment is a focused procedure, in which our Dr. uses his hands to impart a controlled force into the joints that have become restricted/stiff. This adjustment promotes proper joint movement, which in turn reduces the patient’s pain, dissipates inflammation, and slowly restores proper muscle function. As each patient is unique, our Dr. modifies his technique (e.g. force, location, and speed of the adjustment) to meet the specific needs of each individual; this allows for a treatment that is both comfortable and effective. While most patients feel a sense of relief following care, some may experience soreness and stiffness that typically fades within 24 hours. This soreness is often likened to that experienced following strenuous exercise.
Note: People often ask why there is a popping, or cracking, noise when an adjustment is performed. This noise is simply a by-product of the adjustment and has no bearing on its effectiveness. Each joint in your body is bathed in a protective solution known as synovial fluid. When the joint is stimulated (adjusted), a pressure change often occurs within the synovial fluid, resulting in the release of gases (primarily Nitrogen). This effect can often be compared to the release of gas that occurs when playing with bubble-wrap; the gas inside moves outward at such a high speed that a “pop” is heard.
Full Function Chiropractic 