Chiropractic adjustment

The chiropractic adjustment is a procedure in which trained specialists called chiropractors use their hands or a small instrument to apply a controlled force to a spinal joint. The goal of this procedure, also called spinal manipulation, is to improve spinal motion and the body's ability to move.

Low back pain, neck pain and headaches are the most common reasons why people seek chiropractic adjustments.

Chiropractic adjustments are safe when they are done by someone trained and licensed to do chiropractic care. Serious complications linked to chiropractic adjustments are rare. They may include: An issue with one of the rubbery cushions, called disks, that sit between the bones that stack to form the spine. The soft center of the disk slips out. This is called a herniated disk. An adjustment also can make a herniated disk worse. Pressure on nerves in the lower spine, also called compression. A certain type of stroke after an adjustment to the neck. Don't seek a chiropractic adjustment if you have: Severe osteoporosis. Numbness, tingling, or loss of strength in an arm or leg. Cancer in your spine. An increased risk of stroke. An issue with how a bone in your upper neck is formed.

You don't need to do anything special before a chiropractic adjustment.

At your first visit, your chiropractor asks about your health history. Your chiropractor does a physical exam, with special concern for your spine. You also may need other exams or tests, such as X-rays.