It is understandable that while many people love and swear by chiropractic care, others may be nervous or apprehensive about it. Are you nervous or apprehensive? Here are the top 5 reasons people are nervous about chiropractic, based on my experience with patients new to chiropractic.
The "Pop"
The "pop" that is often associated with an adjustment is not the cracking of bone or tearing of soft tissues.The scientific name for the sound is “cavitation."The moveable joints in the spine are called synovial joints and they produce a lubricant known as synovial fluid. This fluid provides nutrients to the joints and allows them to move better.The byproducts during the formation of the synovial fluid are gasses such as oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide.The chiropractic adjustment opens those synovial joints allowing those gasses to be released, thus causing the "pop" sound.It is similar to the "pop" that occurs when you open a can of soda, and equally as satisfying!
The Thrust
The thrust is the pressure applied rapidly to a specific vertebral segment usually resulting in the aforementioned “pop.” In chiropractic, this is known as HVLA or a high velocity, low amplitude thrust, meaning the adjustment is applied with low force, but very quickly. Speed is the key!
Fear of Pain or Worsening an Injury
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), chiropractic is safe and effective when employed skillfully and appropriately. However, side effects can occur following chiropractic adjustments such as soreness and stiffness, but those subside within 24 to 48 hours. The benefits of chiropractic care far outweigh these adverse effects. The adjustment opens the joint spaces, relieves pressure on the nerves, and realigns the spine which allows the soft tissues, such as muscles, ligaments and discs, to heal properly.
I’ve Had a Bad Experience, or Know Someone Who Did
Here at Stark Chiropractic and Sports, we pride ourselves on providing the best patient care possible. We continue learning the newest adjusting and soft tissue techniques that will benefit our patients. Think of it this way - if you hired a plumber that didn't fix your leak or tracked mud through your house, you wouldn't fire all plumbers, just that one. Chiropractic is much the same. It is important to find a chiropractor that makes you feel safe and comfortable.
Dr. Stark is a board certified chiropractor and the author of this blog post. To learn more about Dr. Stark and the many benefits of chiropractic care, please visit our website: www.starkchiroandsports.com.