What does an adjustment feel like?

When a licensed chiropractor recommends that you receive an adjustment, it simply means that they are going to apply pressure to your back in order to realign your spinal column. With time, this realignment eases your pain, promotes better posture and improves your body’s physical function. In general, chiropractors use their hands or a small medical instrument to manipulate the joints in a quick, controlled fashion.

Adjustments are a simple outpatient treatment which can be completed on your lunch break. There is little to no pain involved in an adjustment. You may feel pops and cracks, but you should not feel any intense pain. Typically, if you weren’t in pain prior to the adjustment, you won’t be after. Some chiropractic patients do experience some mild soreness or minor aches after a visit. The report that these minor aches feel similar to those felt after vigorous exercise or intense stretching.

Risks of Chiropractic Adjustments

As with any medical procedure, one must be aware of any risks involved. These risks are rare, but nevertheless you must consider them prior to your first chiropractic adjustment. 

• A chance of a herniated disk or aggravation of an already herniated disk
• Nerve compression in the lower spinal column
• A chance of stroke related to a neck adjustment (this risk is minimal)

As always, speak with a doctor or medical provider to get advance information about your specific situation. There are certain people for whom a chiropractic adjustment is not advised. If any items on the list describe your health history, do not seek chiropractic care.

Known Osteoporosis

• Any numbness or tingling in your arms or legs
• Any unusual loss of strength in your arms or legs
• Cancer of the spinal column
• If you have an increased risk of stroke
• Any instability in the spine

You may hear pops and cracks from your joints as the doctor performs the procedure, but you should not feel any intense pain. Depending on your symptoms, the doctor may perform a second or third adjustment.  After he or she is finished the doctor will advise you on some simple after care such as ice packs or heat pads, which will continue to help your pain management. It is important to note that each type of adjustment offered is a bit different. Here is an explanation of some of the typical types of adjustments performed by licensed chiropractors.

If you are unsure if chiropractic care is the right fit for you then give Dr. Jenkins a call! At Jenkins Chiropractic, the first step is an initial consultation to determine whether or not chiropractic care is best for you. You can reach us at (319) 393-4303. Our Cedar Rapids office is conveniently located off council st. Learn more about us here.