Blog post #281 from Ann Arbor, Michigan, chiropractor Mike Tannenbaum, D.C., of Tannenbaum Chiropractic, LLC: A Few Questions About Chiropractic That Come Up Often at my Ann Arbor Chiropractic Office

Here are some answers to questions we hear a lot at our Ann Arbor, Michigan, chiropractic office.

What is a chiropractic adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment is when a chiropractor applies a controlled force to a joint of two adjacent bones (most commonly the adjustment is done to joints between bones of the spine). Often a joint is “adjusted” because the bones attached to the joint are not aligned properly and or the joint itself has reduced range of motion.

What makes the popping noise with adjustments?

Regularly, but not always, there is a popping noise that occurs along with the chiropractic adjustment. This popping noise occurs when gas (oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide) leaves the joint(s) as pressure is applied to the joint during the adjustment. This popping noise doesn’t always occur during the adjustment the lack popping noise does not diminish the effectiveness if the adjustment.

I feel better quickly; should I continue with my chiropractor’s recommended care plan?

Yes, you should. The adjustment can be very effective, quickly reducing pain and increasing joint mobility; however, the lasting effect of an adjustment or two can be short lived due to muscle “memory.” The muscles attached to the joints become accustomed (trained) to being in the position established by the misaligned joint. Thus, a chiropractic adjustment can temporarily correct the misaligned joint’s position but, because of muscle memory, the muscles that are attached to the joint that had been misaligned will pull the joint back into its misaligned position. With a certain number of adjustments (usually the chiropractor recommends a number based on your condition), the muscles can be trained so that the joints and bones remain in the correctly aligned position.

If you have any questions about this blog post, chiropractic, neck pain, back pain, or headaches, I can be reached at my Ann Arbor chiropractic office at [email protected].