During a back adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation therapy, chiropractors use controlled force to restore mobility and reduce pain in the spine. This type of treatment can also be applied to other joints. You may hear a cracking noise during the procedure, similar to the sound you get when you crack your knuckles. This is completely normal and is caused by small pockets of trapped air being released.

A misaligned spine is a common cause of back and neck pain. This puts pressure on nerves and strains supporting muscles. A chiropractic adjustment can help align the spine and improve posture, which decreases pain and discomfort.

In addition to reducing back pain, spinal manipulations can help reduce inflammation and increase blood flow to the area. Research shows that anti-inflammatory chemicals, such as cytokines and nitric oxide, are produced during a chiropractic adjustment.

Many people have poor posture, which can lead to back and neck problems. This is usually due to a combination of factors, including spending long periods of time looking down at a phone or computer screen and sleeping with the head tilted or propped up. It's important to correct this posture and practice good sitting, standing and walking posture to keep your back healthy.

For patients with severe back pain, spinal manipulations may be done under full anesthesia or twilight sedation in the hospital. This is typically only for those patients whose pain has not been relieved by more conservative treatments, such as exercise or medication.upper shoulder blade pain