Using specific adjustments, which are often gentle, chiropractic treatment frees restricted joints, removing the nerve irritation to assist restoration of function theus promoting healing.
Chiropractic adjustments consist of a short, quick thrust to a joint. This helps to release muscle spasm, alleviate pain and restores normal range of motion. Skilled spinal manipulation is not normally painful, although some aspects can be momentarily uncomfortable, overall treatment is effective in reducing pain.
Is it safe?
Yes.
The adjustments are only within the normal anatomic limits of the joint so the ligaments and muscles are not overstretched.
Unlike drugs chiropractic treats the cause of the pain, not just the pain itself. Many studies have shown chiropractic to be a safe and effective treatment.
How long will it take?
Chiropractic care depends on the healing ablility of each patient so there are no definative answers. Factors which can affect the healing process include your age, overall health, muscle tone, diet and even your attitude.
Most patients report some improvement after their first treatment. This sets in motion a series of changes as each visit builds on the ones before.
Occasionally after treatment you may feel stiff or achey, this is perfectly natural and temorary. Be patient and optomistic. If you have chronic problem progress usually comes slowly, it's probably taken many months or possibly years for your body to reach this stage and recovery takes time.
Will I need chriopractic care forever?
After patients get relief from their initial problem many choose to continue with some type of periodic care.
Biomechanical problems are often the accumulation of smaller problems rather than a single large trauma. e.g. "I just bent down to pick up the paper and now my back hurts" is usually because bending down to get the paper was the straw that broke the camel's back, that problem has been accumulating for a while!
Periodic "check-ups" can help support the improvement already acheived as well as detect and resolve small, new problems before they become serious.
