A Massive List of Spinal Adjustment Benefits
Why Understanding Spinal Adjustment Benefits Matters for Your Health
Spinal adjustment benefits include significant pain relief, improved mobility, better posture, and headache relief. Research shows spinal manipulation is as effective as other recommended therapies for spine pain, offering an alternative to anti-inflammatory medications without the side effects.
Key benefits include:
Pain Relief: Reduces low back and neck pain.
Improved Function: Improves range of motion for daily activities.
Medication Alternative: Offers pain reduction comparable to NSAIDs.
Headache Management: Lessens the frequency and intensity of certain headaches.
Pregnancy Support: Provides safe relief for pregnancy-related back pain.
Faster Recovery: Speeds healing when combined with exercise.
Spine pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting over 11% of people. For many, the cause is non-specific, which is where spinal adjustments can be particularly effective. Major medical organizations, including the American College of Physicians, now recommend spinal manipulation as a first-line, drug-free treatment for low back and neck pain.
But what are spinal adjustments, and are they right for you?
Hi! I'm Dr. Michelle Andrews, founder of ChiroHer in Oklahoma City. I've helped hundreds of patients find relief from chronic pain, supported mothers through pregnancy, and worked with athletes to improve performance. Understanding spinal adjustment benefits is key to providing the personalized, effective care you'll receive at our clinic.
The Core Benefits and Process of Spinal Adjustments
What Is a Spinal Adjustment?
A spinal adjustment, or spinal manipulation therapy (SMT), is a procedure where I use my hands or a small instrument to apply a controlled, quick force to a spinal joint. This is known as a high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust. A gentler technique, spinal mobilization, uses slower movements. The goal of both is to restore joint function and reduce nerve irritation. The "popping" sound you might hear is called joint cavitation, which is just gas releasing from the joint, similar to opening a can of soda. It is harmless and a normal part of the process.
Key Spinal Adjustment Benefits for Back and Neck Pain
Back and neck pain are the leading cause of disability worldwide. Spinal adjustments offer powerful relief for both sudden (acute) and long-lasting (chronic) pain. Scientific research on low back pain treatment confirms that spinal manipulation is as effective as anti-inflammatory drugs, and it's recommended by the American College of Physicians as a first-line, non-drug treatment.
Beyond pain relief, adjustments improve function, meaning better range of motion and flexibility. This helps reduce disability, allowing you to return to work and hobbies sooner. For best results, especially with neck pain, I often combine adjustments with therapeutic exercises in a multimodal approach to promote long-term wellness.
What to Expect During Your Chiropractic Visit
Your first visit to ChiroHer, whether you're from Oklahoma City, Yukon, or Moore, starts with a conversation. We'll discuss your symptoms, health history, and goals. This is followed by a physical exam focusing on your spine and posture. If needed, we may recommend X-rays.
Before we begin, I'll explain your personalized treatment plan. During the adjustment, you'll lie on a padded table while I apply a controlled force to specific joints. Afterward, I'll provide recommendations for stretches and exercises to support your recovery. Many patients feel immediate relief, though some experience mild soreness for up to 24 hours, much like after a workout.
Are Spinal Adjustments Safe?
Patient safety is our top priority. Spinal adjustments are widely considered safe when performed by a licensed chiropractor.
Common Side Effects: Most side effects are mild and temporary, including soreness, stiffness, or fatigue that usually resolves within 24 hours.
Rare Risks: Serious complications are extremely rare but can include herniated discs or, in very specific cases of neck manipulation, a type of stroke. We screen for pre-existing conditions to minimize these risks.
Contraindications: Adjustments may not be suitable for individuals with conditions like severe osteoporosis, spinal cancer, acute fractures, or certain infections. A thorough screening is always performed first.
Choosing a qualified practitioner is critical. The team at ChiroHer is highly trained to provide safe and effective care. If you have severe pain, numbness, or fever, see a medical doctor first to rule out serious underlying conditions.
A Holistic View on Spinal Health and Wellness
At ChiroHer, we take a holistic approach, knowing that spinal health contributes to your overall quality of life. The spinal adjustment benefits we provide are a cornerstone of this philosophy.
More Spinal Adjustment Benefits Beyond the Back
The positive impact of spinal adjustments extends far beyond the back and neck.
Headache Relief: Adjustments can help with cervicogenic headaches, which originate in the neck. A 2019 review also suggested spinal manipulation might reduce migraine frequency and intensity. Learn more in our article: Can Chiropractic Treatment Help Alleviate Migraines.
Sciatica Management: For the radiating leg pain of sciatica, a 2021 study found that combining spinal manipulation with physical therapy significantly improved pain. Read more on our blog about Sciatic Pain.
Improved Posture: By realigning the spine, adjustments correct postural imbalances, reducing strain throughout the body.
Improved Athletic Performance: Proper spinal alignment ensures optimal nerve function, which is critical for muscle coordination, balance, and strength.
Your spine protects your central nervous system, which controls every function in your body. A properly aligned spine reduces nerve interference, which can lead to better sleep, an improved immune response, and a greater sense of well-being.
How Spinal Adjustments Support Your Health Plan
Chiropractic care is about building a foundation for lasting health. Spinal adjustment benefits are designed to integrate with your broader wellness goals.
Spinal adjustments work well alongside other treatments. Scientific research on SMT efficacy for spine pain supports combining them with exercise. At ChiroHer, we also offer acupuncture and therapeutic exercises to amplify your results.
In a time of concern over opioid use, spinal manipulation offers a powerful, non-pharmacological alternative for pain management, recommended by organizations like the American College of Physicians.
ChiroHer's patient-focused approach means we create personalized treatment plans for your unique needs, with specialized care for women and prenatal clients. We offer a range of holistic services to support your body's natural healing. You can find more info about our holistic wellness services on our website.
If you're ready to integrate spinal care into your wellness plan, we encourage you to book an appointment.
Building Trust: Authority and Research in Chiropractic Care
Overview of Chiropractic Education and Licensure
Becoming a Doctor of Chiropractic involves rigorous training. The path includes an undergraduate degree followed by a four-year doctoral program. This education covers anatomy, physiology, neurology, and chiropractic techniques, along with thousands of hours of hands-on clinical training. Before practicing, chiropractors must pass national and state board examinations to become licensed. Every chiropractor at ChiroHer has met these high standards.
Importance of Evidence-Based Practice
At ChiroHer, we practice evidence-based care. This means we integrate the best available research with our clinical expertise and your personal health goals. We continuously monitor new scientific findings and clinical guidelines to ensure our treatments are current and effective, allowing us to deliver meaningful spinal adjustment benefits.
Links to Reputable Sources
We encourage you to learn more from trusted organizations:
How ChiroHer Stays Current with Best Practices
Our team is committed to lifelong learning. We regularly participate in continuing education, attend professional conferences, and review the latest scientific literature. This dedication ensures we are always providing the most advanced and effective care available, combining compassion with cutting-edge practices.
This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for already established medical advice from your healthcare provider.