The short answer is “yes” and “no”. First let’s understand what causes the “cracking” sound. Spinal bones are connected by a right sided and left sided joint. The “cracking sound is caused by the formation of a gas bubble inside the spinal joints when the two joint surfaces of spinal bones are separated. So, if you are performing a stretch or movement that allows for gapping of the spinal joints enough where the gas bubble can be formed, you will hear the “cracking” sound.

HOWEVER, the difference between “self-cracking” and having a licensed, qualified Doctor of Chiropractic performing an adjustment is that when you are “self-cracking”, the joint surfaces that are separating are already moving well, and possibly could even be hypermobile, or moving beyond their appropriate normal range of motion. They become hypermobile to compensate for joints that are stuck, fixated or not moving through its full range.

Doctors of Chiropractic address the fixated joints as typically fixated joints cause stiffness and pain. So, “self-cracking” feels good temporarily, but patients feel like they need to do it over and over and over again because they cannot address the fixated joint, so symptoms come back. So anyone can potentially “self-crack”, but if patients want long lasting relief, have a qualified Doctor of Chiropractic address and adjust the fixated joints, and prescribe appropriate exercises, is going to provide a much more effective, and long-lasting solution.

Most people start off seeing the chiropractor once or twice a week. Each individualized treatment plan is created based on the patient. The exact number of treatments might differ depending on the severity of pain or injury.

Treatments will decrease once a patient starts to see progress in their symptoms. Once a patient has completed all treatment appointments, they will receive another evaluation. If the chiropractor believes the patient is better, they will discharge the patient.

Sometimes a patient will need to come in for follow up treatment for their back or neck pain. But our goal is always to provide pain-relief for the long haul and not have to see our patients again!

A chiropractic adjustment is when a chiropractor uses their hands or a small instrument to apply pressure to a joint in the body. This can be on the neck, back, shoulder, knee, or almost any other part of the body.

Chiropractic adjustments can restore movement and mobility to the joint. It can also improve your body’s overall physical function. A restoration chiro adjustment realigns your body back to its natural form. This can improve blood and oxygen flow.

Chiropractic adjustments and treatments are safe, natural, effective forms of treatment. They treat various musculoskeletal pains and injury.

For most patients, chiropractic adjustments are painless. Many people report that they feel good following treatment. They describe a feeling of relief from the pain or tension.

Patients new to chiropractic treatments, may stiffen or resist the adjustment. This can cause them to feel a small amount of discomfort. Once relax, they should not feel this discomfort during their adjustment.

Patients suffering from an injury or inflammation may feel discomfort during various treatments. This is completely normal as it is part of the healing process. The discomfort or soreness should be mild and only felt for a short duration of time. Most patients report feeling relief and improved mobility following their treatments.

Back pain is one of the most common types of pain people suffer from. One of the best forms of treatment for back pain is chiropractic treatment. Our Fort Washington Chiropractors are experts in treating upper and lower back pain. They also treat neck pain, and many other spine-related conditions.

Yes, chiropractic treatments are safe for kids. Chiropractic care for kids is a natural and holistic way to help children relieve pain. Chiropractic care can help treat conditions such as colic, breastfeeding problems, chronic headaches, chronic ear infections, constipation, sports injuries, and more.

Yes, chiropractic care can help you sleep better. Chiropractic treatments help heal injuries and pain, reduce stress and reduce medications that can all have an impact on your sleep. Chiropractors can also help recommend the best pillow and mattress for your individual needs.