What is an Adjustment?

One of the most common treatment methods used by chiropractors are joint adjustments. A chiropractor can determine that a joint needs an adjustment by physically examining the joint and seeing if it is able to move through its full range of motion. If the joint is not able to move through its natural range of motion it is determined to be stuck and in need of an adjustment. When the joint is not able to move correctly it is sometimes tender or painful as the stuck position of the joint can effect the nerves around the joint creating pain. It can also cause the muscles attached to and around the joint to become tense and spasm creating pain. Once the natural movement of the joint is restored it helps the muscles and nerves in the area to relax and returns the normal pain free functioning of the joint. Joint adjustments are done by taking the stuck joint and moving it to its current end range of motion. At this point the chiropractor will push the joint just beyond its stuck position. The movement is done with high speed but little force. This allows the joint to become unlocked and move through its natural full range of motion. Often a popping sound is heard along with the adjustment which is just air being released from the joint as it is unlocked. Adjustments help decrease pain, restore normal movement and increase nerve function

What is the Activator?

The activator is a hand held tool which is used to adjust various joints of the body. Instead of the chiropractors using their hands to do the adjustments they will use the activator instead. Activators have a force adjustment mechanism which can be customized for various joints and patients. The end results are the same as manual adjustments decreasing pain, restoring normal movement and increasing nerve function.

What is a Joint Mobilization?

Joint mobilization may also be used during a treatment to increase the range of motion of certain joints or groups of joints. Joint mobilizations are done by physically moving the joint through its ranges of motion. Joint mobilizations differ from adjustments as the joint is only moved within its current range of motion regardless if it is decreased or not from its normal full range. Joint mobilizations do not push the joint through its current able range of motion to unlock it. Joint mobilizations like adjustments also help restore the normal function of the joint which helps the muscles and nerves around the joint to relax.

What is Manual Release Therapy?

Manual release therapy is a form of soft tissue therapy which is performed on different muscles in the body. The muscle being treated is shortened and lengthened through its normal movement by the patient while the chiropractor applies pressure to the muscle. This treatment helps length and relax contracted and tense muscles. This treatment method can be used on muscle knots, muscle contracture and general muscle tension.