Spinal Manipulation, also known as the "adjustment", is the foundation of chiropractic therapy (2). The adjustment involves a gentle specific movement to the involved restricted joint, and may involve a short, controlled thrust to restore functional pain free range of motion. These restricted joints can be thought of as being "locked up" or not moving properly. An adjustment releases joint restrictions, adding and restoring normal functional motion to the joint, while stimulating positional receptors, which in turn inhibits pain receptors that send noxious stimuli to the brain for processing (1). The adjustment also helps break up fibrous adhesions that form around joints. These would otherwise cause wear and tear, due to increased stress on the joint, and the adjustment promotes the gradual return to more favorable neurological and biomechanical function. Osteoarthritis may progress more rapidly when potentially exposed to greater wear and tear, as a result of joints that are locked up. Thus, it would behoove one to remove stress from their joints in order to prevent complete degeneration of the cartilage and bony structures. Spinal manipulative therapy is a very effective way of alleviating joint restrictions and compensatory soft tissue conditions, in addition to halting the progression of osteoarthritis. The choice between gentle mobilizing movements and/or dynamic impulse adjusting, will be addressed accordingly as it relates to each individual. Consult with us if you are hesitant about any spinal manipulative therapy that produces noise.
References
- Tuchin PJ, & Bonello R. The evidence on chiropractic treatment for migraine. Conference Proceedings. World Federation of Chiropractic, 7th Biennial Congress, 2003.
- Vear HJ. Standards of chiropractic practice. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 8(1):33, 1985.