A back adjustment, also called spinal manipulation or chiropractic adjustment, is a type of manual therapy that uses controlled force applied to the spine with the aim of realigning joint subluxations. Chiropractors use this treatment to treat a wide range of conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, and it's commonly used in combination with traditional medical care like pain relievers.
Spinal misalignments can cause pain, discomfort, and a host of other health issues, including headaches, neck pain, and joint stiffness. There are many reasons to get a back adjustment, but the most common include a sedentary lifestyle that places too much pressure on the spine and shoulders, unexplained back pain, or neck pain that doesn't respond to medication.
During a back adjustment, you will lie down on a table while your chiropractor manipulates your limbs to stretch muscles and joints. This is often accompanied by a cracking or popping noise that's similar to when you crack your knuckles. This is a normal part of the treatment, and it's caused by small pockets of air that "pop" when the spinal facet joints are stretched quickly and gently.
In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors are trained in a variety of techniques that can treat other types of muscle and joint issues. These include spinal mobilization, which involves stretching and moving your spine to achieve decreased pressure and increased function; manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) – performing a spinal manipulation while you're under twilight sedation; and instrument adjustments, such as using a spring-loaded activator device.
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