Spinal Adjustment Services in Chicago: Find Pain Relief

What are Spinal Adjustments?

A spinal adjustment or spinal manipulation is a technique in which your therapist will apply a high velocity, low amplitude thrust to a specific joint segment in your spine. A spinal adjustment will typically result in a “pop.” This pop is called a cavitation and is caused by a release of gas in the joint space when the joint is pushed slightly past its normal passive range of motion. However, research shows that an audible pop is not necessarily needed in order to have the below stated benefits.

Understanding Adjustments, Manipulation, and Mobilization

The term “adjustment” is more commonly used in the chiropractic profession whereas “manipulation” is more common in the physical therapy profession. The terms are different although the techniques are the same or very similar in many cases. Both involve a high velocity, low amplitude thrust applied to a spinal segment and/or specific joint. The explained theory behind the treatment may vary and slight changes in the technique are typical. A mobilization is another term used by physical therapists to describe a series of forces applied to the spine and/or joints usually with oscillations of varying intensity. There are many healthcare professions that overlap and treat similar problems. For that reason, terminology is often confused and misinterpreted. Our goal is to educate the public on the quality treatment options they have available to them and to encourage them to ask deliberate questions from their providers to better understand what, why, and how they are being treated.

What are the benefits of having a spinal adjustment?

Research has shown that spinal manipulation can provide:

Pain relief
Increased range of motion
Improved muscle relaxation
Improved muscle activation or recruitment
Restored joint kinematics (movement)

Are spinal adjustments safe?

Yes. The literature shows that manipulations to the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical spine are safe when appropriate patient screening is done prior to the intervention. Spinal manipulations or adjustments are highly-skilled techniques that should only be performed by a licensed professional with the appropriate training and expertise in this type of treatment. Our physical therapists evaluate each patient prior to any treatment implementation. The risks and benefits are discussed with each patient at the time of their visit. Continuous assessment by your therapist is performed throughout your plan of care. If a thrust manipulation is deemed to be high risk, then alternative treatments can be discussed including spinal or peripheral joint mobilization which may be a safer alternative in some cases.

Who can benefit from spinal adjustments?

Individuals who greatly benefit from spinal adjustments are those with acute low back and neck pain, with symptoms less than a month. However, individuals suffering from back or neck pain for longer periods of time have shown benefits and improvements with adjustments as well. Cervicogenic headaches (headaches that originate from the neck) often respond well to manipulation of the upper cervical spine. Research has also shown that thoracic manipulations can assist with neck and shoulder pain as well as shoulder range of motion.

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How Spinal Adjustments Improve Function

Spinal adjustments are a cornerstone of physical therapy for restoring proper biomechanical function to the spine. By addressing joint restrictions and misalignments, these techniques aim to improve the way your spine moves, which in turn can alleviate pain and enhance your ability to perform daily activities. This improved mobility can translate to better posture, reduced muscle tension, and a greater overall sense of ease in movement.

The process involves precisely targeted movements that help to unlock restricted joints, allowing for a greater range of motion. When spinal segments move more freely, the surrounding muscles can function more effectively, reducing compensatory strain and improving efficiency. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing stiffness, limited flexibility, or difficulty with specific movements due to spinal issues.

Spinal Adjustments vs. Other Back Pain Treatments

While spinal adjustments are a powerful tool for managing back and neck pain, they are often part of a broader treatment plan. Physical therapists may integrate adjustments with other therapeutic modalities such as therapeutic exercises, soft tissue mobilization, stretching, and education on posture and body mechanics. This comprehensive approach ensures that all contributing factors to your pain and dysfunction are addressed.

Compared to passive treatments like medication or heat therapy, spinal adjustments actively work to correct the underlying mechanical issues causing pain. They differ from surgical interventions in that they are non-invasive and focus on restoring natural function rather than altering anatomy. The goal is to empower the body's own healing mechanisms through precise manual therapy.

The Role of Licensed Professionals in Spinal Adjustments

Spinal adjustments should always be performed by qualified and licensed healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, chiropractors, or osteopathic physicians. These practitioners have undergone extensive training and education to understand spinal anatomy, biomechanics, and the safe application of adjustment techniques. They are skilled in assessing your condition, identifying appropriate candidates for adjustments, and performing the procedure safely and effectively.

Before any adjustment is performed, a thorough evaluation is crucial. This includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, and potentially diagnostic imaging if deemed necessary. This screening process helps to rule out any contraindications, ensuring that spinal adjustments are a suitable and safe treatment option for your specific needs and health status. Muscle & Joint Physical Therapy prioritizes this safe and effective approach.

When to Consider Spinal Adjustments for Neck Pain

Neck pain can significantly impact your quality of life, affecting everything from sleep to concentration. Spinal adjustments can be highly effective in addressing the underlying causes of many types of neck pain, including stiffness, muscle spasms, and headaches originating from the cervical spine. By restoring proper alignment and mobility to the neck vertebrae, adjustments can relieve pressure on nerves and reduce muscle tension.

Conditions such as cervicogenic headaches, which are often mistaken for migraines, can find significant relief through targeted spinal adjustments to the neck and upper back. Similarly, individuals experiencing pain and restricted movement due to poor posture, whiplash, or degenerative changes in the cervical spine often benefit from the precise application of these manual techniques. Muscle & Joint Physical Therapy in Chicago offers expert care for these conditions.