Types of Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractic adjustments are the most common and effective treatments for neck and back pain. There are many types of chiropractic adjustments, and not all of them are equally effective. Dr. Gary Martin, Irvine Chiropractor, explains the differences and how they can help relieve pain and maintain spinal wellness.

Diversified Technique

The most common type of chiropractic adjustment technique is called the diversified technique. This manual technique encompasses a variety of adjustment styles that are uniquely chosen by the chiropractor depending upon the patient’s condition and  the doctor’s healing intent.  A common chiropractic adjustment involves a gentle, quick, specific movement to the misaligned (aka subluxated) joint, with the intent of re-aligning and restoring the normal motion to the vertebral joints, and removing irritation to the local nerves.  

What’s that cracking sound all about?

When Dr. Martin uses his hands to adjust the spine, there will often be an audible popping sound as the joint is gently moved back into place.  This sound is completely normal and is definitely NOT bones breaking or anything abnormal.  It is merely a phenomenon that happens when the joint capsule is stretched to a point where nitrogen gas is released from the synovial fluid. 

Diversified techniques effectively treat many various conditions, including neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, and headaches. This technique can also treat joint disorders, such as arthritis.

Spinal Mobilization

This technique differs from the previous one, again employing gentle pressure and moving the joint around with the intent of only restoring joint mobility. This improves a joint's range of motion.

Muscle Energy Technique

This chiropractic technique is also known as Post Isometric Relaxation Stretching or PIR/PRS for short. It's a hands-on chiropractic maneuver that uses the patient's muscles to ease joint pain. Our chiropractor will place their hands affected muscle and then ask the patient to contract their muscles. As the patient tightens their muscles, our chiropractor will provide resistance.  Then the patient relaxes their muscle group so the chiropractor can stretch the muscle further.

Myofascial Release

Our Irvine, CA chiropractor has experienced massage therapists who use this technique to treat myofascial pain syndrome.  His therapists apply gentle and sustained pressure on the muscle tissue and stretch the connective tissue. This muscle technique works hand in hand with the chiropractic adjustments and is often used to relieve back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, and headaches.

Schedule an Appointment with Us Today

There are many different types of chiropractic adjustments that Dr. Martin is highly skilled at performing.   Consult with our professional Irvine, CA, chiropractor. Dr. Gary Martin, Irvine Chiropractor, so he can help determine which chiropractic adjustment suits your specific condition. Contact us today at (949) 559-7999 to schedule your first appointment.