Are Chiropractic Adjustments Safe?
People often question whether or not chiropractic adjustments are a safe method of medical care, and we’re here to bust the myth and put you at ease, literally and figuratively. Neck pain and aches and pains across the lower body usually require professional treatment to avoid serious complications and chronic cases of discomfort.
The main objective of the chiropractic adjustment is to improve the physical function of the spine by applying physical pressure or force to the spinal joint (chiropractic manipulation) as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to restore normal range of motion and a pain free life.
This treatment may sound risky in theory but has added health benefits (relief from high blood pressure, improved range of motion, etc.) when performed by a professional in accordance with a thorough clinical practice guideline. Thus, it is essential to understand whether chiropractic adjustments are considered safe or not.
Some Reasonable Safety Concerns to Consider
When performed by a trained and licensed chiropractor, chiropractic adjustments are generally safe and will not result in any serious medical conditions or complications. Serious complications of a chiropractic adjustment are considered to be very rare, but can include the following:
A feeling similar to a stroke around the neck (possibly a symptom of arterial dissection)
Nerve compression around the lower spinal column
Herniated disk, or complications in existing herniated disks
You may also be advised to avoid chiropractic adjustments if you have a serious case of osteoporosis. This is a medical condition that weakens bones and makes them extremely brittle. Any force exerted on such bones such as bending may lead to a bone fracture. You may also be told to avoid a chiropractic adjustment if you have cancer in your spine, an increased risk of having a stroke, or any abnormality in the spinal joint, or the upper neck. For these reasons your chiropractor may suggest x rays and a comprehensive review before you begin a treatment plan.
Things to Consider Before an Adjustment
Before any form of chiropractic adjustments take place, the chiropractor checking your spinal joint will determine whether you are experiencing any pain while they are adjusting your back, neck, or joints. You will also be questioned about your medical history and may be subject to a physical exam. If the adjustment is painful, they will not proceed with the process. The chiropractor will also manually check muscles near the affected area to see how close they are to being overstretched.
Most chiropractors will also recommend additional tests such as an X-ray before a chiropractic adjustment is performed. These are precautionary tests for a chiropractor to be more aware of the source of discomfort. Therefore, if all conditions of performing the adjustment are met, a chiropractic adjustment can be sought once, or as a long-term treatment for body aches and pain.
What Happens After an Adjustment?
After a chiropractic adjustment, it is normal to experience a few common side effects such as fatigue, headaches, and discomfort in parts of the body that were subject to treatment. These side effects are temporary and will wear off shortly after the adjustment.
Chiropractic adjustments have become increasingly popular in the existing day and age. One of the primary reasons why many people prefer chiropractic adjustments is because no drugs or surgical methods are required to perform this process.
When performed correctly, chiropractic adjustments are considered among the most effective remedies for acute lower back pain, headaches, and neck pain. Generally, lower back pain tends to go away on its own, but more chronic cases of lower back pain may require treatment over a longer period of time. Headaches and neck pains may also follow a similar pattern but may need to be diagnosed in more depth to identify the exact cause.
Patients who have opted for chiropractic adjustments over a certain period of time have experienced an improving immune system, which ultimately reduces the risk for any serious medical condition. Chiropractic adjustments are also known to improve brain function, thus leading to improved thinking and thought to process. Other health benefits of chiropractic adjustments include improved body alignment to avoid unnecessary bends, reduced reliance on pain relievers, improved function of the nervous system, and increased satisfaction.
Consult With Your Doctor To Make Sure Chiropractic Care is Right For You
If you are still unsure of opting for a chiropractic adjustment, an osteopathic doctor may be consulted before opting for a chiropractic adjustment. You will be advised comprehensively about your musculoskeletal system, and whether an adjustment will be beneficial for your physical body or not.
Conclusively, there are no major risks involved in a chiropractic adjustment, and this process is scientifically proven to be safe and effective for all ages. While younger aged individuals will benefit from improved body functionality after chiropractic adjustments, older people will experience life-changing physical body improvements.
To learn more contact 919 Spine in Holly Springs, Morrisville, or Wendell to schedule your initial appointment.