An “adjustment” is a term meaning specific manipulation of one or more spinal or other malfunctioning joints. These abnormalities in the spinal column may cause irritability within the nervous system. Doctors of chiropractic spend years learning to examine the spine and understand the complex motions of the vertebrae. Additionally, they learn to administer a specific spinal adjustment. Considerable skill and dexterity are required to become proficient in the art of chiropractic adjusting.

This depends on the injury or condition you present with. The more complicated the case or severe the injury, the longer care will take. It can also depend on your age. Generally, the older patient has more arthritic changes and less elasticity in the muscles and ligaments. He or she will usually respond slowly although favorably to chiropractic care.

During the first 72 hours of an acute injury, ice should be your modality of choice. Occasionally certain injuries will require the use of ice over an extended period of time. Application of heat after 72 hours is appropriate, but may still need to be alternated with ice application. Acute injuries will involve pain, swelling, heat and redness at or around the injured area. Using the P.R.I.C.E. formula during this phase will serve to help benefit the healing process and reduce pain.