Chiropractic appointments and the time it takes to realign the spine through a chiropractic adjustment are usually brief. Depending on the severity of the issue, patients can feel better soon after receiving treatment. Generally, improvement is seen within 1 to 4 weeks from the start of chiropractic therapy. This is for non-complex musculoskeletal conditions.
During the initial visits, patients often experience a 40 to 80% reduction in pain. Eventually, the pain may completely disappear along with a functional improvement. Chiropractic adjustment has been proven to be effective in treating low back pain, although research shows only a modest benefit similar to more conventional treatments. Additionally, spinal manipulation may be beneficial for headaches and other conditions related to the spine, such as neck pain.
The chiropractor uses their hands or small instruments to apply a quick and controlled force (amount of pressure) to a joint or gently stretch the joints beyond their normal range of motion. The primary goal of chiropractors is to reduce pain and restore functionality as quickly as possible. They are doctors who specialize in treating any type of muscle, bone, or joint pain or dysfunction. If chiropractic care isn't suitable for your condition, your chiropractor will refer you to another healthcare provider for help.
During a typical chiropractic adjustment, your chiropractor places you in specific positions to treat affected areas. If you have a problem that affects the musculoskeletal system, a chiropractor can offer alternative treatment methods that don't involve medications. Chiropractors ensure not only that the joints are moving properly, but also that the surrounding muscles work as well. You may hear clicking or crunching sounds when the chiropractor moves your joints during the treatment session.
It is more common for people who are assigned female at birth than those assigned male at birth to visit a chiropractor. After a chiropractic adjustment, you may feel mild pain or have very minor aches and pains in the areas of your body where your chiropractor worked. At your initial visit, your chiropractor will ask you questions about your health history and perform a physical exam, with special attention to your spine. This sensation usually goes away within 24 hours and rarely affects people who see a chiropractor regularly. The chiropractor will apply a controlled amount of force (pressure) to the joints, creating a crackling or popping noise as gas leaves the joints.
By placing their hands in precise locations and making controlled movements, the chiropractor works on individual joints to improve mobility and relieve discomfort. Older children (12 to 1 year old) were more likely than younger children (4 to 1 year old) to have seen a chiropractor, but there was no significant difference in the use of chiropractic care between girls and boys.
