You may have heard that chiropractors do “adjustments,” but not everyone knows what a chiropractic adjustment is, or why people can benefit from them.  This week we’re separating myths from facts. Firstly, let’s define “chiropractic adjustment.”  Then we’ll look at what adjustments can do for you.

What is a chiropractic adjustment?

An adjustment is a precise movement applied to the vertebrae of the spine, or to a joint in the human body.  Chiropractic adjustments are typically done by hand.  In fact, the word “chiropractic” comes from the Latin words “chiro,” meaning “hand,” and “praxis,” meaning “to do something.”

The movements involved in chiropractic adjustments require a high degree of skill and many years of training.  This is why asking a friend to “crack your back” usually doesn’t help and can even be dangerous.  Chiropractors go to school for many years.  They need to have university degrees before they can enter the four-year full-time training programme to become a chiropractor.  They must also pass qualifying exams.  Chiropractors are only licensed to practice after they successfully graduate and pass their exams.  This training ensures the chiropractors have the knowledge and skills to perform adjustments that are effective and safe.

What does an adjustment do?

Adjustments restore proper movement to the joint.  This improves its function and relieves discomfort.  It supports the body as it heals from injuries or the little stresses that all of us encounter in our day to day lives.

Our bodies go out of alignment in the course of daily living.  This is why regular chiropractic maintenance care helps us to achieve wellness and feel our best.  We take care of ourselves as a matter of routine instead of waiting for a crisis to occur.

Of course, it is also possible to experience an unexpected accident, like a sports injury, car collision, or fall.  And some of us suffer from chronic illnesses, like osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, or rheumatoid arthritis, which cause our bodies to need a little extra support.  Chiropractic care can help in these cases as well.

In conclusion, regular chiropractic adjustments improve overall wellness.

If you’ve had an accident, or if you’re noticing aches or pain more often lately, call Sheppard Chiropractic Centre at (506) 635-8182 or (506) 847-7172.  We are accepting new patients!  We are also happy to hear from patients who we haven’t seen in some time.