Chiropractic Neck Adjustments Explained
Chiropractic Neck AdjustmentsExplainedPeople go to the chiropractor for a multitude of reasons. Although chiropractic is rooted in the spine, chiropractic care treats all parts of the body, and the neck is at the top of the list. Studies show that ninety-five percent of all headaches are related to tension in the neck. As well, the neck houses the atlas – or, the top vertebra – which is, in theory, the primary determinant of alignment/misalignment of vertebrae down the entirety of the spinal column. For that reason, chiropractors must train to make special spinal adjustments in the neck, and because the atlas is set so far into the neck, underneath the skull and virtually buried by connecting tissue, reaching the atlas to adjust it takes a special skill set outside of the manipulation methods used for the rest of the spine. If you or someone you know plans on visiting a chiropractor for neck adjustments, then it is good to know the following basics: More doctors are working in conjunction with alternative methods to treat conditions today. This is why it’s important that your insurance covers chiropractics and see what back care therapies are covered. These services can enhance the care you receive from your treatment a great deal. What is a neck adjustment like?First and foremost, a neck adjustment does not move your neck outside of its normal range of motion, so do not expect to be painfully stretched or bent out of shape. Different chiropractors have different ways of performing a neck adjustment, so you should ask your chiropractor about the specific method that will be used on your neck. However, all neck adjustments involve manipulating the position of the atlas, which can be done by applying pressure to the atlas or by administering a sudden jerk of the head from one side to the other. You may be lying down on your side and using a raised headrest or you may be sitting up for the procedure. Try paying attention to sleeping on your back for a change. Put a pillow underneath your head and also your shoulders. Place rolled-up towels under the neck and knees to keep your body’s main three curves stabilized. You may also need to get yourself a comfortable mattress.
Risks associated with neck adjustment.There is very little risk in neck adjustments that are performed correctly. Statistically, neck adjustments are an extremely safe and effective way to relieve pain, pressure, and other types of discomfort in the neck. However, it is important for you to know that there are some risks, even if only minimal. For example, there is a slight risk of experiencing a stroke or stroke-like symptoms after a neck adjustment. However, odds are you will get struck by lightning or die while playing soccer first. Did you know that chiropractic care boost your immune system?The new blood circulation assists in your body’s ability in fending off new infections and diseases. Going in for a neck adjustment is understandably an anxiety-inducing prospect. Fortunately, the process itself is not nearly as traumatizing as you might imagine. As a matter of fact, very few patients ever report any adverse effects, and most report experiencing relief from neck pain. Contact Dr. Mierzwa today at 716-965-4343. |
Basics of Chiropractic Adjustments
Basics of Chiropractic AdjustmentsThe prospect of seeing a chiropractor for the first time can cause some apprehensions, to say the least. However, that is usually only due to unfamiliarity with the functions of a chiropractor and the techniques a chiropractor uses to treat patients. Fortunately, chiropractic care is nothing to be scared of, and it could likely be just what you need to experience relief from your condition. Spinal manipulation, also called chiropractic adjustment, is a mystery to people who have never been to a chiropractor. But, being as how chiropractic adjustment is the cornerstone of chiropractic care, it is important that you understand what it means if you plan on seeing a chiropractor any time soon. Here are the basics of chiropractic adjustments: More doctors are working in conjunction with alternative providers today. This makes it important that your insurance policy and other forms of alternative care. This can improve your physician’s care even more. What does chiropractic adjustment involve?During a chiropractic adjustment, the chiropractor will manipulate the joints in your spine, forcing them through their natural range of motion, until they “fall” into their natural position, called “alignment.” The release of pressure is the goal of spinal manipulation, and is what makes that popping sound once the goal is achieved. Pay attention to the way you sleep position to lessen back problems. Put a pillow under the head and also your shoulders. Place rolled-up towels under the neck and knees to keep your body’s curves. You should also want to sleep on a mattress that is comfortable. What techniques are used during chiropractic adjustments?Chiropractic adjustment involves a series of manual manipulations, most of which are used to apply pressure to areas around the spine where the vertebrae are out of place. Different chiropractors use different methods to accomplish this. Some use a soft, gentle touch, while others prefer using sporadic pressure and sudden movements to achieve the desired relocation. Before you choose a chiropractor, it is imperative that you ask about the techniques that will be used during the adjustment and pick a practitioner whose treatment style matches your preferences. Be sure to get out of your bed the morning. Getting out of bed in this way can decrease your chances of sustaining a spinal injury happening. How does chiropractic adjustment work?Once the joints in the spinal column have been properly adjusted, the vertebral discs should be aligned in a way that provides for optimal space in between them. There are large nerves in disc joints, and when the joints are cramped (often due to swelling and/or bulging or herniated discs), those nerves are compressed. Compressed nerves become irritated and cannot communicate with the nervous system the way they need to, resulting in pain and discomfort. By aligning the discs through chiropractic adjustment, the chiropractor lessons the pressure on the spinal cord nerves, in turn alleviating a variety of symptoms and health conditions. You shouldn’t be expecting a single chiropractor to solve your pain problem. You may feel better, but true healing occurs over time. Stick to whatever regiment your chiropractor recommends. If you fail to do this, you can end up disappointed. As you can see, there is a lot more to spinal adjustment than a few simple twists and turns of the back. Chiropractic care is a specialized field that makes use of its very own techniques. Chances are your health could benefit from these techniques in more ways than one. Call 716-965-4343 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Mierzwa today! |