A chiropractic adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation, is a passive technique where the physician applies a specifically directed manual impulse, or thrust, to a joint, at or near the end of the passive (or physiological) range of motion. This has both a local joint effect and physiological response on the body:
- Restrictions in joint motion are released often times resulting in a popping noise.
- Stretching of the muscles which lie next to the spine, allowing them to loosen.
- Decreases pressure between the discs of the spine. This pressure by the discs can irritate nerve endings which cause pain.
- Endorphins (natural pain killers) are released by your body which helps to naturally decrease pain.
Reviews have concluded that spinal manipulation is relatively safe when performed by a trained and licensed practitioner. The most common side effects are generally minor and include feeling tired or temporary soreness.