What is a subluxation?
A Vertebral Subluxation occurs in the spine when two or more spinal bones lose motion and interfere with the nerve messages from the brain to the body (and vice versa). This affects muscle balance and the function of the organs (and the chemicals and hormones they produce). Vertebral subluxations may or may not produce pain.
What causes a subluxation?
Subluxations are caused by stresses (or forces) that the body has been unable to adapt to.
PHYSICAL STRESS: can range from knocks and falls during childhood, whiplash trauma, prolonged sitting or standing,. The birth process itself exerts
pressure on the spine and nervous system and the use of forceps and ventouse can create further distress.
CHEMICAL STRESS; includes anything from too much alcohol, sugar, toxins and preservatives to breathing environmental pollutants. These upset body chemistry which disrupt the tone of both muscles and ligaments resulting in subluxation.
MENTAL STRESS; may result from combating work or relationship pressures causing ligaments and muscles to tighten, and if sustained our body under goes significant physiological changes. Such as increased blood pressure heart rate, blood glucose, cholesterol and many more.
What does a chiropractic adjustment entail?
An adjustment is a very specific pressure applied to the spine to help the body correct vertebral subluxations. There are many ways to adjust the spine. Chiropractic doctors may use their hands specially designed tables or an activator. After years of training and clinical experience, each chiropractic doctor becomes highly skilled in the delivery of a variety of adjusting approaches.
What causes that noise?
The popping noise that is sometimes associated with certain techniques is due to gas (80% carbon dioxide), rushing into to fill a partial vacuum created when the joint surfaces move slightly. Some techniques will produce no sound at all.
How will I feel after an adjustment?
Some people may feel slight soreness following their first few treatments as the body begins to realign. This is usually very mild and only lasts for a short time (24-48hrs), but generally people report they the feel ’lighter’, more relaxed and sleep better.
What results can I expect?
Vertebral subluxations affect people in different ways, therefore the results achieved by each individual will vary. Your body has an incredible capacity to heal itself. Many people find they have more energy, they sleep better, have better concentration, or a greater ability to resist disease and illness. Other people find their headache, neck or back pain, significantly diminish. Most people are in fact delighted with the success they have with chiropractic.
What should I expect during a New Patient visit
- Thorough health history
- Physical examination including:
- Neurological, Orthopedic, and Chiropractic specific testing
- Consent form
- Referral for x-ray if required
Does everyone need X rays?
No. X-rays are only needed when clinically indicated. X-rays allow for diagnosis of various conditions such as arthritis, scoliosis, and osteoporosis and is also used to rule out more sinister causes of spinal problems. Your Chiropractor will determine whether or not this is required based on your history and examination findings.
What happens during a Report visit?
Your chiropractor will show and explain the findings of the initial examination and x-rays. Your Chiropractor will work with you in a team approach to specifically tailor your health and wellness management.