Chiropractic Adjustments (aka Spinal Manipulation)

A chiropractic adjustment, also known as chiropractic manipulation, manual manipulation, or spinal manipulation, is a common therapeutic treatment for lower back pain. ¹

A chiropractic adjustment refers to a chiropractor applying manipulation to the vertebrae that have abnormal movement patterns or fail to function normally.

The objective of this chiropractic treatment is to reduce the subluxation, with the goals of increasing range of motion, reducing nerve irritability and improving function.

Understanding Spinal Manipulation

There are well over 100 types of adjustment techniques used by chiropractors throughout the world. With over 20 years experience, Dr Bushée is a well trained expert at performing many different spinal manipulation techniques, as he has treated thousands of patients throughout his Chiropractic career. He will typically utilize several techniques during each patient visit, along with varying the technique, depending on the phase of care (Acute, Rehabilitative or Wellness) a patient presents in.

The common goal of most chiropractic techniques is to restore or to enhance joint function, with the general goals of resolving joint inflammation and reducing pain. Some approaches use some force (spinal manipulation), while others are more gentle (spinal mobilization).

The original chiropractic adjustment approach is generally referred to as spinal manipulation, and may also be called the diversified technique or the high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust. New chiropractic adjustment approaches typically evolve as a variation from an existing technique and are often named after the chiropractor who developed it.

Chiropractic Manipulation Techniques

Chiropractors adapt treatment plans to meet the specific needs of each patient. Typically, chiropractic treatment plans involve some forceful and less forceful spinal adjustment techniques during the same visit or over the course of treatment (6 to 12 visits for a typical patient).

Spinal Manipulation (High-Velocity Low-Amplitude Thrust)

The most frequently used chiropractic technique, spinal manipulation, is the traditional high-velocity low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust. The manipulation often results in an audible "pop," as chiropractors use their hands to apply a controlled sudden force to a joint while the body is positioned in a specific way.

Spinal Mobilization (Low-Force or Gentle Chiropractic Techniques)

Some conditions (such as osteoporosis), pathology, the patient's size, patient comfort, or patient preference, may require a gentler approach generally referred to as spinal mobilization. In addition, some patients and/or clinicians prefer mild spinal mobilization techniques that do not involve twisting of the body or a forceful thrust.

In addition to spinal manipulation, many modern chiropractors will often use adjunctive therapies, such as ice or heat or physical therapy modalities (such as electric stimulation, ultrasound, rehabilitation exercise etc.), as part of an overall Chiropractic treatment plan. Patients are encouraged to their symptoms and preferences with Dr Bushée, whose role it is to perform a thorough history and examination, in order to determine the best course of treatment for each patients individual needs and healthcare goals.