Back pain is one of the most debilitating pains a person can endure, and most people will experience it at some point in their lives. Chiropractic care is a pain management treatment many people choose to alleviate their back pain. 

It includes spinal manipulation, sometimes referred to as “manual manipulation,” a method chiropractors use to relieve back pain. How do chiropractors relieve back pain?

In this guide, we’ll go over the basics of chiropractic care and why you might need it.

What Is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on realigning the spine and treating musculoskeletal issues. Most people visit a chiropractor for back pain, but chiropractors also treat other issues such as neck pain, headaches, nerve damage and joint conditions.

Chiropractors are a type of medical doctors who study the musculoskeletal system, the way the bones, joints and the spine interact with one another and affect the body. They address issues with the musculoskeletal system through the manipulation of the spine.

How Does Chiropractic Care Work?

Chiropractors use several different methods of manual manipulation to align the spine and realign the joints. They do this through a variety of means, such as applying pressure to a specific spinal area to release pressure on a nerve, or stretching the joints in the spinal column to create extra space.

As a result of the realignment, the body is less likely to experience pain and more likely to function properly.

What Happens Before the Procedure?

Before the patient visits the chiropractor, they will likely undergo some sort of analysis. As with many other aspects of chiropractic care, this varies between doctors. A doctor might ask the patient a series of questions to determine how long they’ve been dealing with their aches and pains, how long the pain lasts, how it feels and how it affects their daily life and activities. 

The chiropractor will also do a physical examination to determine the cause of the pain. They’ll often use an x-ray to diagnose any serious issues or misalignments.

What Happens During the Procedure?

There are various techniques chiropractors use to realign the spine. One of the most common is manual manipulation, which is the most efficient method. 

Manual manipulation involves the chiropractor using hands to reposition the joints. They apply pressure to the joints until they’re able to shift into the correct position.

The duration of the manipulation varies. The doctor might have to manipulate the joints again to realign them in the correct place.

What Happens After the Procedure?

The patient will likely rest for a few minutes before they leave the chiropractor’s office. 

After they go home, they will likely have some sore muscles, but this is a good sign that the manipulation was effective.

Chiropractic care is a great way to reduce back pain, as well as other ailments. It also helps improve mobility and overall health among patients.  

Conclusion

Chiropractic care is a great alternative to treating aches, pains and other ailments. If you’re suffering from low back pain for instance, consider giving the chiropractor a try. 

If you are considering chiropractic treatment, Hawkeye Chiropractic can help. We are a back pain chiropractor in Arlington that can address any issues you might be facing. Book a consultation with us today to learn how.