Mobilizations & Manipulative Therapy

One of the most frequent treatments a chiropractor uses is manual manipulation of the vertebrae of your spine or other joints, which is called an ‘adjustment.’ To perform an adjustment, a chiropractor will use their hands to apply controlled force to your joint and guide it through a range of motion. The same goals can be achieved with the use of the Activator tool, a handheld instrument that allows chiropractors to provide a quick, low-force impulse at specific points. 

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A "popping” or "cracking" noise, known as a “cavitation”, may occur which is caused by pressure changes within the joint. These changes cause a gas bubble to escape from the joint capsule, which creates the sound. This may or may not accompany the adjustment and is not an indication of a successful adjustment. 

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Mobilizations are similar to adjustments but rather than a quick force applied to the joint, they involve slower oscillations repeated several times. Research does not suggest that one technique is better than the other, rather both can achieve the same benefits.

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Benefits

• Reduce pain and stiffness

• Improve mobility

• Restore function to the affected area

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