Georgetown chiropractor, chiropractor in Georgetown, CT

Chiropractic Adjustments

The term "adjustment" refers to the specific manipulation chiropractors apply to vertebrae that have abnormal movement patterns or fail to function normally. The objective of the chiropractic treatment is to reduce the subluxation, which results in improved range of motion, reduced nerve irritability and better function.

The adjustment made by the chiropractor consists of a high velocity, short lever arm thrust applied to a vertebra, which is often accompanied by an audible release of gas (joint cavitation). The audible sound is caused by the release of oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide, which releases joint pressure (cavitation). The noise occurs for the same reason a champagne bottle pops when opened! The sensation is usually relieving, though minor discomfort has been reported (that usually lasts for only a short time duration) if the surrounding muscles are in spasm or the patient tenses up during the chiropractic procedure. Dr. Fox is a very gentle, skilled adjuster. He takes the time to calm the muscles first and relax the patient prior to adjustment.

If joint cavitation or cracking does not occur this is often due to significant muscle splinting which can occur when someone is in a good deal of pain. At times like this, it is usually best to apply ice, have the patient rest, or do electrical stimulation, light stretching and massage prior to attempting spinal manipulation.