What actually is an adjustment?
We all love a good crack, pop, or adjustment (also known as a manipulation), but do you actually know what is happening physiologically when we perform joint manipulations? Let’s just be up front and tell you that nothing is moving in or out place and nothing is being ‘realigned’ as is the common belief. Really, the cracking or popping noise we hear is just a gas bubble being formed in the fluid which surrounds the majority of our joints, called synovial fluid. Furthermore, the crack doesn’t always have to occur for an adjustment to be effective.
How does it work then?
An adjustment or joint manipulation is a manual therapy involving the application of small and quick movement to the affected joint which aims to stretch the surrounding muscles. This stretch causes special nerve fibres within and surrounding the muscles to send a signal up to our brain which essentially tells the brain it’s safe and pain free to move in that direction. The brain responds to this signal by sending more signals back to the muscles and surrounding joint structures which cause the muscles to relax and decrease pain signalling. This results in a period of time where you’re able to move the joint relatively pain free and with an increased range in motion. The goal is to restore or enhance joint function, alleviate pain, and support the body's natural healing processes. However, this is not a lasting effect and within a few days the effect of the manipulation will be decreased. That’s why it’s important to exercise, or keep moving the affected joint through its regular range of motion following an appointment.
If nothing is being ‘realigned’ then why does it feel like it?
There’s no denying that sometimes a joint manipulation can make you feel more balanced or aligned. As stated above, nothing is moving in or out place, nothing is ‘realigning’ so to speak. So how is this feeling possible? The closest explanation we have is that when we have an increase in pain signalling in an affected area, our focus and proprioceptive input can be altered, making us feel a bit out of whack. Proprioception is our body’s ability to detect where we are in space, and is what allows us to perform smooth and fluid movements by correctly bracing and activating the right muscles. When we perform an adjustment we stimulate the surrounding nerve and muscle fibres of the affected joint. This alters the awareness and proprioceptive input of the nervous system surrounding that area, causing a temporary increase in proprioception and feeling to that area, and the ‘realigned’ sensation.
The Main Benefits of Spinal Manipulation:
1. Pain Relief: One of the primary benefits is the reduction of pain, particularly in the back, neck, and joints.
2. Improved Range of Motion Spinal manipulation can enhance flexibility and range of motion, making it easier to perform daily activities.
3. Muscle Relaxation: The therapy often leads to muscle relaxation, which is beneficial for individuals with muscle tension or spasms.
4. Holistic Approach: Spinal manipulation is rooted in a holistic approach to health, addressing not just symptoms but underlying issues contributing to pain or discomfort.
Spinal manipulation is a time-tested therapeutic approach that continues to offer relief to many individuals dealing with musculoskeletal issues. While it is generally considered safe when performed by trained professionals, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine its appropriateness for your specific condition. As a tool in the comprehensive toolbox of musculoskeletal care, spinal manipulation remains a fascinating and effective avenue for promoting wellness.
