Steps In A Chiropractic Adjustment Procedure
The spinal cord has various functions in the body, including providing a pathway for impulses to travel from the brain to other body parts, thus offering structural support. As such, those who experience spinal cord injuries have numerous health and physical complications. Chiropractic care involves going through various chiropractic adjustments to treat spinal cord injuries. It involves manipulating and shifting the spinal cord to its regular shape, which improves the patient's motion, health, and physical function. People should always seek chiropractic treatment from trained professionals who understand the procedure and can mitigate the health risks involved. While chiropractic adjustment is safe, it poses several risks, such as nerve compression on the lower spine, stroke from poor neck manipulation, and a herniated disc if done by an untrained chiropractor. Here are the steps followed during a chiropractic adjustment procedure.
Consultation and Examination
Consultation and examination is the first step in a chiropractic adjustment procedure. The consultation allows the chiropractor to assess the patient and determine their problem before adjusting the spine. During the consultation, patients usually describe their symptoms and provide a brief background of the problem. Additionally, the chiropractor conducts a physical exam that focuses on the spinal cord to make an informed assessment of the patient's condition. The chiropractor can request further tests like x-rays to conclusively establish the patient's condition. Chiropractors also look at the patient's medical history to determine whether they have any health issues preventing them from undergoing a successful chiropractic adjustment. Patients with serious health conditions such as severe osteoporosis, spinal cancer, and bone abnormality are exempted from chiropractic adjustments since they pose a serious health risk.
The Adjustment Procedure
The chiropractor will only proceed with the adjustment procedure after establishing that the patient is healthy. Chiropractic adjustments entail exerting sudden force against a patient's spinal cord to align it to its correct shape and position. The chiropractors require patients to lie on a padded table during the procedure before using their hands or small metallic tools to exert the required force. Patients should expect a pop or crack sound indicating that the joint has reached its maximum range of motion. The adjustment procedure is short, and you do not have to be admitted unless you have severe side effects.
The Post-Procedure
Patients should expect minor side effects such as fatigue and headaches after the chiropractic adjustments. These symptoms are normal, but you should visit the chiropractor if they persist. Chiropractors also give patients some post-care instructions like limiting stress and avoiding physical activity to ensure a full recovery.
