What is Chiropractic Adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation, is a hands-on technique commonly used by chiropractors to treat musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those related to the spine. It involves applying controlled, sudden force to specific joints in the spine or other parts of the body with the goal of improving joint function, reducing pain, and promoting overall wellness.
During an adjustment appointment, the chiropractor near you applies manual pressure or uses specialized instruments to manipulate the targeted joint. This may involve quick, controlled thrusts, gentle stretching, or sustained pressure. The specific technique used depends on the patient’s condition and the professional’s assessment.
How Can a Chiropractor Help Improve Posture?
A chiropractor can play a significant role in helping to improve posture. Poor posture is often the result of misalignments or imbalances in the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Chiropractors are trained to assess and address these issues, providing treatments and recommendations to promote better posture and overall spinal health. Here are some ways chiropractors can help improve posture:
- Spinal adjustments: Chiropractors perform spinal adjustments to correct misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations. By applying targeted and controlled forces to specific areas of the spine, chiropractors can restore proper alignment, reduce spinal stress, and improve posture.
- Muscle and joint therapies: Chiropractors may use various therapies to address muscle imbalances, tension, and joint restrictions that contribute to poor posture. These may include therapeutic exercises, stretching, massage, and other soft tissue techniques to relax tight muscles and restore balance.
- Postural education and awareness: Chiropractors can educate patients about proper posture and body mechanics. They may provide specific instructions on how to sit, stand, walk, and lift objects correctly to minimize strain on the spine and promote better posture throughout daily activities.
- Ergonomic recommendations: Chiropractors can assess workstations, chairs, and other environments to provide ergonomic recommendations. They may suggest adjustments to desk height, chair position, computer monitor placement, and other factors to optimize posture and reduce strain on the spine while working or performing daily tasks.
- Exercise and rehabilitation: Chiropractors often prescribe specific exercises and rehabilitation programs tailored to address postural issues. These exercises can help strengthen weak muscles, stretch tight muscles, and improve overall postural alignment.
- Lifestyle modifications: Chiropractors may provide guidance on lifestyle modifications that can contribute to better posture. This may include recommendations on maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good sleeping habits, and avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or standing.
Who or What is Chiropractic Therapy Suitable For?
Chiropractic therapy is suitable for individuals with back and neck pain, headaches, and joint pain, athletes, pregnant women, those seeking preventive care, and those looking for non-invasive treatment options. It provides conservative approaches to managing musculoskeletal conditions and promoting overall wellness. Consulting with a qualified chiropractor is important to assess individual circumstances and determine if chiropractic therapy is appropriate.
What Will the Chiropractor Examine?
During a chiropractic examination, the chiropractor will review your medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination to assess posture, range of motion, and muscle strength. They will also perform a spinal assessment to check for misalignment or tension, evaluate your joint range of motion, analyze your posture for imbalances, and may request diagnostic imaging if necessary. Additional assessments, such as gait analysis or specialized examinations, may be performed based on your specific condition.
Through these examinations, the chiropractor aims to identify areas of dysfunction, misalignment, or imbalance in your musculoskeletal system. This information will help guide the development of an appropriate treatment plan to address your specific concerns and promote optimal spinal health.
It’s important to note that chiropractors in SW Calgary are trained to recognize when a patient’s condition requires further medical attention or when chiropractic care may not be suitable. In such cases, they will refer you to the appropriate healthcare professional for further evaluation and management. Get in touch with us at Calgary Sport and Spine if you wish to improve your posture!