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.  

What is a chiropractic adjustment?  

A chiropractic adjustment is when a chiropractor applies pressure to an area of the body. They can either use their hands or small instruments. A chiropractor uses a controlled, sudden force to a joint in the body, often in the neck or back.  

An adjustment can restore movement to the joint. It can also improve your body’s overall physical function. It aims to realign your spinal column which can help improve posture and range of motion.  

What does an adjustment feel like?  

During a typical chiropractic adjustment, your licensed chiropractor places you in specific positions. These positions help treat affected areas. Often, you’re positioned lying face down on a padded chiropractic table. Other times, a chiropractor will have you sit upright in a chair for a specific neck or head adjustment. The chiropractor will then use their hands to apply a controlled pressure to a joint. This pushes it beyond its usual range of motion allowing for air to release or the joint to shifted back in place.

You may hear popping or cracking sounds. This is completely normal as your chiropractor moves your joints.  

What is the noise I hear during an adjustment?  

When your vertebrae or spine is adjusted, tiny pockets of gas are released from the joints. This can make a “popping” noise. It’s the same sound you hear if you pop your knuckles. It is completely safe and should not be cause for concern. However, not all patients hear this noise when they receive an adjustment. An adjustment can be successful with or without producing a popping noise.  

Are adjustments safe?  

Research shows that chiropractic adjustments and treatments are safe and effective. They offer a natural and holistic way to restore the body and treat back or neck pain. Chiropractic treatments also offer a safe alternative to riskier, more evasive treatments such as surgery. They also do not risk causing dependency on pain medications.  

Research shows that complications from chiropractic treatments are extremely rare.  

Get Treated at Kaizo Health    

Our goal at Kaizo Health is to always get you back to feeling 100%. Our doctors provide treatment to help you be pain-free. We also have a dedicated team that will work with you and your insurance. We want to make sure you get the most from your benefits. You should experience relief for as little cost to you as possible. If you are ready to experience relief from the pain, make an appointment to see us now.    

Kaizo Health offers locations in Rockville, MD; Landover, MD; Fort Washington, MD; and Fairfax, VA. Our doctors an evidence-based approach by combining chiropractic care and individualized rehabilitative exercises. We provide the treatment and resources you need to recover your health. We are here to help! If you’d like more information, check out our blog. You can also take our free virtual self-assessment on app here.