ADJUSTMENTS/ MANIPULATION
Adjustments, or manipulation as they're sometimes referred to is the minor movement of vertebrae in the spine. The objective of this movement is not just to realign vertebrae that have moved out of place but to correct the abnormal functioning of the vertebral segment that is causing pain and inflammation at this segment. This can be occurring for a number of reasons ranging from normal daily activity to trauma such as a car accident.
When these vertebrae are out of place or more often, not functioning properly, it has an overall systemic effect from muscular to the central nervous system. Without proper alignment or mobility, spinal joints can become inflammed and painful and have an affect on our nerves which control all skin sensation, muscle functioning and the organ systems in the body from the brain; we can't function at our peak.
An adjustment is a light pressure thrust from the chiropractor utilizing his hands to move a vertebrae back into place or to correct the joint "hypomobility". This happens with a quick movement and is often without discomfort. You may hear a noise that sounds like you're cracking your knuckles referred to as joint cavitation. It is the release of gases such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen from the joint. Dr. Weckel is skilled at traditional "hands on" gentle manipulation to correct the spinal joint dysfunctioning and I sometimes use flexion/distraction (Cox method) to treat conditions like herniated discs with sciatica.
Overall, adjustments are an excellent way to keep the body functioning at its highest level. When the body is in alignment, the body is able to respond and perform as it was designed to.