Understanding the Chiropractic Adjustment

The chiropractic adjustment is a safe, natural, and non-invasive procedure used to restore health and improve your body’s ability to function. Mastering the art of the adjustment is a highly specialized skill that requires years of intensive clinical study and practice.

Doctors of Chiropractic are the only healthcare professionals specifically trained to identify and correct spinal subluxations. This expertise ensures that your care is both effective and precisely tailored to your unique anatomy.
Call  (785) 201-2719 today to schedule your chiropractic adjustment and start moving with confidence.

What Is a Spinal Adjustment?

In basic terms, a spinal adjustment (or manipulation) is a process where your chiropractor skillfully applies a controlled force to one or more "subluxated" vertebrae in the spine. This technique is also frequently used in the pelvic region to help normalize the sacroiliac joints. Depending on your needs and preference, the adjustment is usually delivered by hand or through the use of a specialized mechanical tool.

What is that "Pop" Sound? (Cavitation)

Many people wonder about the audible "pop" or "crack" that sometimes occurs during an adjustment. This sound is a perfectly normal biological process called cavitation.

• Inside your joints is a lubricating fluid called synovial fluid, which contains dissolved gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. When an adjustment quickly and gently moves the joint, it creates a temporary change in pressure. This causes the dissolved gases to be released as tiny bubbles, creating the "pop" sound—much like opening a bottle of champagne or soda. It is not the sound of bones rubbing together; rather, it is simply the release of pressure within the joint.

When Should Adjustments Be Given?

Adjustments are applied to specific vertebrae that have lost their proper position or where normal motion has become impaired. These areas are known as vertebral subluxations.



Your chiropractor uses unique tests and diagnostic procedures to determine exactly which vertebrae are affected. Because subluxations—much like dental cavities—are not always painful in their early stages, we recommend periodic spinal checkups even if you aren’t currently experiencing back or neck discomfort.

What Do Spinal Adjustments Do?

The primary goal of the adjustment is to correct subluxations. By doing so, we can:

• Reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tension.
• Normalize spinal biomechanics.
• Remove nerve irritation and interference.
• Enhance your body’s overall health and wellness.



Beyond the Spine: Extremity Adjustments

In addition to the spine and pelvis, almost every other joint in the body can be adjusted! This includes your:

• Hands, wrists, and elbows
• Feet, ankles, and knees
• Shoulders, hips, ribs, and even the jaw

Just like the spine, these joints can become misaligned or "fixated." Adjusting these areas restores proper function and minimizes daily wear and tear. This is especially beneficial for athletes who require optimal performance from high-stress joints. Adjusting provides an immediate increase in range of motion and helps "flush" the joint, bringing in fresh nutrients and removing waste products from the cartilage.

A Quick Fun Fact

Did your mother ever warn you that "cracking" your knuckles would give you arthritis? As it turns out, she was mistaken! Research has actually shown that individuals who habitually "crack" their knuckles may have a lower incidence of arthritis in those joints compared to those who don't. Researchers believe this motion increases joint nutrition and maintains healthy movement—both of which are essential for long-term joint health.