It is often said that visiting a chiropractor is always the start of a long-term relationship. A chiropractor’s essential goal is to look for restrictions in the spine. The frequency of chiropractic adjustments is one of the most common concerns of patients. However, it varies from patient to patient and depends upon the size of the injury and the pain you have. A chiropractor can’t cure excessive pain in just a single visit, but you will see progress after every visit.
Symptoms and Reasons for Visiting a Chiropractor
- Lack of flexibility
- Frequent headaches
- Joint and muscle pain
- Recent accident
- Shooting pain in legs due to pinched nerves
- Misaligned spine
Common Chiropractic Adjustment Frequencies
Although chiropractic adjustment frequencies depend upon injury and & personal goals, generally, patients have more frequency in the first 2-3 weeks that gradually decreases. After that, its maintenance time starts when patients visit once every two months.
The general frequency period for neck and back injury or pain is following:
Week. Frequency per week
1-3 3 to 4 visits per week
3-10 2 to 3 visits per week
10-ongoing ½ visit per week (once in two weeks).
The above table does not have any fixed ratio; you have to visit a chiropractor, examine your injury and pain, and then create a schedule according to you.
7 Techniques of Chiropractic Adjustment
- The Diversified Technique
- Spinal Manipulation (aka Spinal Mobilization)
- Thompson Drop-Table Technique
- Gonstead Adjustment
- The Activator Method
- The Flexion-Distraction (Cox Technic)
- Spinal Decomposition
The Diversified Technique
The direct thrust technique is one of the most common and oldest techniques of chiropractic adjustment. There are three essential functions of the Direct thrust technique:
- Restore Spinal Alignment
- Repair Joint Disfunction
- Proper movement and mobility
A precise hands-on thrust can restore misaligned joints to increase patient range of motion. Nearly 96% of chiropractors use this technique on their patients. High-velocity force makes it more dangerous than other manipulative treatment techniques.
Spinal Manipulation (aka Spinal Mobilization)
Spinal Mobilization / Manipulation is like the lite version of Diversified Technique. It includes gentle thrust and more stretching. Spinal manipulation aims to reduce muscles inflammation and improve nerve function & joints.
Thompson Drop-Table Technique
The Thomson drop table technique requires a specially designed drop table. The table absorbs pressure whenever a chiropractor applies more force than the necessary amount using its drop mechanism with padded platforms.
The dropping system feels comfortable with the applied force of any specific joint. Moreover, the drop table mechanism is most comfortable for the spine.
Gonstead Adjustment
Gonstead Adjustment is another popular disc alignment and restoring mobility technique. A chiropractor can use the technique on-hands when the patient is sitting or laying on the side. As the chiropractor manipulates the lower back or pelvis, the patient can sit or lie on their side. It is important to note that the Gonstead adjustment relies on specific contact points on the chiropractor’s hand.
The Activator Method
A small handheld spring-loaded device known as an “activator” is used to deliver gentle impulses into the vertebral segment. With the help of this spring-loaded device, the nervous system can be adjusted, and a variety of health conditions, such as headaches and back pain, can be treated.
The Flexion-Distraction (Cox Technic)
Another technique requires a specialized table to perform hand-on exercises on the patient. The table divides the force into gentle rhythms. The method is used to treat cranium, aligning spine & disc injuries with back pain. It most comfortable and pain-free technique for sensitive patients.
Spinal Decomposition
The spinal decomposition technique also required a flexion table; this technique is most effective against herniated disc treatment in sciatica or lower back pain.
FAQs
Will My First Chiropractic Treatment Hurt?
Chiropractic treatment gives you a popping sensation of spine realignment, providing unique comfort. You would not feel any pain in chiropractic treatment, but if you are not in pain before.
There will only be mild discomfort and possibly a popping sensation for most patients as the spine or joints are realigned. If your chiropractor works on an injured or inflamed area, there may be more discomfort.
If you already have pain in the neck or back and are going for chiropractic treatment, you should first tell him. He may advise you to wait until your injury is cured.
Why Do Doctors Not Like Chiropractors?
Doctors and chiropractors are very different, although they both have the same purpose of curing pain. But their techniques and methods make them very far away from each other.
Moreover, medical doctors don’t know much about spinal manipulation techniques. They are not trained in that way, so they think it’s terrible.
How Much Does a Chiropractor Cost?
Chiropractor cost starts from 35$ to a hundred dollars depending upon the clinic, the expert, and your treatment, while the average chiropractor’s price is 65$ per visit.
Why does popping back feel so good?
This is due to Endurophis; endorphins are released near the adjusted area, making us feel pleasure when we back crack. If you don’t know about endorphins– These are hormones and chemicals our body releases during fun & playful activities like exercise & games.
Author’s Bio:
Dr.Andrew Cohen growing up with chiropractic and the wellness lifestyle that he now teaches his patients. After volunteering in clinics in Bali, Uganda, and India, he settled down in the Bay Area to create a chiropractic clinic catering to active individuals who want lasting change. In the last few years, he’s become very involved with Team USA and the Olympic Training Center, even working the 2016 and 2020 (2021) Olympic Trials.
