The chiropractic profession has been around for over 100 years and there are still many questions regarding the profession and what it is all about. In this article we will talk about 2 of the most common questions about chiropractic care.

What is the cracking sound some people hear when being adjusted? Traditionally chiropractors use their hands to adjust people which can create “cracks” or “pops” in the spine. Although this method is still widely used today, there are also many other methods that can be employed in order to adjust the spine and treat other problems that chiropractors are trained to diagnose. Firstly let’s explain what actually happens when the spine “cracks” or “pops”. The word crack implies that something is breaking, which is definitely not the case when it comes to a routine chiropractic adjustment. Chiropractors are trained to gently move vertebrae by applying forces to the spine in specific directions with the goal of improving function and alignment. When a chiropractor’s hands are used to achieve this, pops can sometimes be heard or felt because gas is being released from the joint that is being adjusted. This sensation usually feels good, as a flood of “feel good” biochemicals can rush in after this type of adjustment. This method of adjusting the spine has received the most controversy in the profession because of this sound, but it is completely safe and as mentioned, these types of adjustments feel good when delivered. If the sound or idea of your spine “popping” during an adjustment would make you uncomfortable, there are many other methods that chiropractors can employ that do not involve the sound of “popping”. The most popular alternative is using an adjusting instrument, or activator as they are most commonly known, to adjust the spine.

Do chiropractors just treat back and neck pain? Although back pain and neck pain are the two most common reasons people choose to visit a chiropractor for, there is so much more they can help with. During their schooling chiropractors learn about each and every joint and muscle in the body and the conditions related to them. They also learn how to treat these conditions, so if it hurts, a chiropractor can likely help. Some common conditions that people are visiting their chiropractors for are: plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, shoulder impingement, knee pain and hip problems. The chiropractor will assess and diagnose the condition first, and then make recommendations for treatment that could include; adjustments, muscle work, exercises, acupuncture, or other modalities. Whatever the case, the work a chiropractor does will be non invasive, safe and effective. Chiropractic is great for people of all ages and all conditions related to the muscles, nerves, bones and joints in your body.

If you have any other questions about chiropractic care, feel free to contact our office and book a consultation with one of our chiropractors.

Dr. Spenser Dougley DC, FR, FRCms