Adjustment is a precise manual procedure chiropractors use to apply controlled force to a joint, usually in the spine, to improve alignment, reduce pain. And restore normal movement. Adjustments aim to correct misalignments called subluxations, which can interfere with the nervous system and overall health.
Category
Chiropractic technique
Used for
Pain relief, joint mobility, nerve function
Common confusion
Often mistaken for massage or general stretching
Also called
Spinal adjustment, Chiropractic manipulation
Often discussed with
Car Accident Injury Treatment, Whiplash Injury Treatment

An adjustment is a key part of chiropractic care. It's also called spinal manipulation.
Related glossary terms: Chiropractic Adjustment, Chiropractic Manipulation, Flexion Distraction.
Chiropractors use their hands or tools. They apply a quick, controlled force to a joint.
This force moves the joint farther than usual. It often makes a popping sound.
The sound comes from gas bubbles in the joint fluid. It's not bones cracking.
The main goal is to fix misalignments. These are called subluxations (joints out of place).
Poor posture, injuries. Or stress can cause them. Misaligned joints may hurt or feel stiff.
They can also block nerve signals. These go between the brain and body.
Adjustments put joints back in place. This helps the body heal itself.
First, the chiropractor checks your spine and joints. They look for stiffness or pain.
They also check for uneven areas. These may mean a joint is out of place.
Once they find it, they position you carefully. This targets the joint that needs help.
They use their hands or a small tool. They give a quick, gentle push to the joint.
This push is safe and planned. It won't hurt you.
Most people feel better right away. Some may feel a little sore.
This soreness is like after exercise. The adjustment only takes a few seconds.
But the effects can last much longer. More adjustments can help your body stay aligned.
Your chiropractor may suggest exercises or changes. These help keep the benefits longer.

Adjustments help with muscle and joint problems. They don't need medicine or surgery.
They can help with back pain, neck pain. Or headaches. They also help with stiff joints.
They make it easier to move. You can bend, lift. Or turn without pain.
The spine holds your nerves. Good alignment helps nerves work well.
Adjustments can also stop problems early. Regular visits help catch small issues.
This is good for athletes or office workers. It helps anyone with body stress.
They also help after injuries. These can be from car accidents or sports.
Adjustments help with short or long-term pain. This pain comes from joint issues.
They treat back pain, sciatica. And neck pain. They also help with tension headaches.
They help people heal from injuries. These can be from car accidents or sports.
Some people get adjustments with no pain. They want to stay mobile and healthy.
Some people need gentler adjustments. This includes those with weak bones or arthritis.
Chiropractors check each patient. They adjust the treatment for each person.
In Hermitage, TN, chiropractors help many people. They work with car accident or work injuries.
Adjustments are key for recovery. They help people get back to normal life.
Chiropractic manipulation is a broader term that includes adjustments but may also involve other techniques like stretching or mobilization. Adjustments specifically refer to the precise, controlled force applied to a joint.
Massage therapy focuses on relaxing muscles and improving circulation through hands-on pressure. Adjustments target joint alignment and nervous system function, often producing a popping sound.
While adjustments are generally safe, the technique must match the patient’s condition. A chiropractor should always perform a thorough exam and review medical history to avoid complications, especially in patients with underlying health issues.
After a car accident, a patient in Hermitage, TN, visits a chiropractor for neck pain. The chiropractor identifies a misalignment in the cervical spine and performs an adjustment. The patient feels immediate relief and notices improved range of motion after just one session.
Chiropractic Adjustment is a precise, hands-on procedure performed by a licensed chiropractor to correct misalignments in the spine or joints. These misalignments, called subluxations, can cause pain, reduce mobility. Or interfere with nerve function. The adjustment applies controlled force to restore proper movement, relieve discomfort. And support the body’s natural healing process.
Chiropractic Manipulation is a hands-on treatment technique chiropractors use to apply controlled force to joints, especially in the spine. This process aims to improve joint motion, reduce pain. And support the body’s natural healing ability without surgery or medication. It's also called a chiropractic adjustment.
Flexion Distraction is a gentle, non-surgical chiropractic technique designed to relieve back pain, leg pain. And nerve-related discomfort. Flexion Distraction uses a specialized table to stretch and decompress the spine, improving mobility and reducing pressure on spinal discs and nerves. It's commonly used for herniated discs, sciatica. And spinal stenosis.
Spinal Decompression is a non-surgical therapy designed to relieve pressure on the spine and spinal nerves. It involves gently stretching the spine using a motorized table or device to create negative pressure within spinal discs, which can help herniated or bulging discs retract, promote nutrient-rich fluids to flow into discs. And encourage healing.
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