Our neuromusculoskeletal system is made up of nerves, tendons, cartilage, joints, bones, and muscles, supporting our entire body, protecting our organs, and enabling us to move. When our neuromusculoskeletal system is compromised, we experience pains and aches. Many might visit a doctor to treat their pain, while others might consider non-invasive alternatives, such as chiropractic care.
Despite its increasing popularity, many still have the misconception that chiropractic care is solely professional bone cracking. Here at Healing Hands Chiropractic, we believe in demystifying this effective and unique approach to better health, showcasing what chiropractors are capable of as professionals in spinal adjustments.
The basis of chiropractic care
The word chiropractic originates from the Greek words cheir (hands) and praxis (practice). In other words, it is hands-on therapy. In the past, chiropractors believed that a misaligned spine leads to various diseases. This theory, which was called the “vertebral subluxation complex,” states that chiropractic care can correct the musculoskeletal system, curing a plethora of diseases.
However, modern chiropractic theory has since evolved to be a holistic approach to healthcare, focusing on diagnosing and preventing various mechanical conditions of the neuromusculoskeletal system, in particular, the spine. Even conditions, including pinched nerves can be managed with chiropractic care. Using various adjustment techniques, chiropractors aim to restore proper alignment, enhancing the body’s natural healing abilities.
Is bone-cracking massage similar to chiropractic care?
To put it simply, chiropractors do not “crack” bones. While “bone cracking massage” might be a casual way of describing chiropractic care, it is vital to know that it does more than just “cracking” your bones. In fact, the cracking sound that is associated with chiropractic care does not come from your bones but rather from the release of gas bubbles that form within your joints.
Chiropractic care involves a comprehensive assessment of your neuromusculoskeletal system, which determines where you need adjustments in order to correct the cause of your pains and aches, improving your overall body function. Here is what a typical process is like at a chiropractic clinic.
1. Arriving at the chiropractic clinic
When you arrive at the clinic, you will have to complete an initial paperwork that allows the chiropractor to understand your current needs and past health history. This is more so for individuals visiting the clinic for the first time.
2. Chiropractic consultation
The initial consultation is the most important part of your chiropractic journey. This is when your chiropractor will understand your concerns and condition. It is also when you will fully understand what chiropractic care is all about, including the causes of your joint dysfunction, the benefits of chiropractic care, and the role of chiropractic adjustments.
3. A complete spinal assessment tests
Following that, your chiropractor will also conduct a series of tests to gain a deeper understanding of what is necessary, including:
- Computerised spinal range of motion measurement
- Bilateral weight distribution assessment
- Posture photo analysis
- Visual posture assessment
4. Spinal x-rays
Depending on your initial assessment, your chiropractor may conduct an additional spinal x-ray further to assess the degree and severity of your spine.
5. Report of findings
After your x-ray is conducted, you will return for a second consultation to review your test results, allowing you to understand the root cause of your pains and aches, whether chiropractic care can help manage the issue, or whether you should consider other specialists.
If chiropractic care can help, your chiropractor will conduct the first adjustment.
6. Why are chiropractic adjustments not made in the initial consultation?
Chiropractic care is a customised solution, which means your chiropractor has to fully understand the cause of your pain before beginning to treat it. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. By omitting adjustments in your initial consultation, your well-being is not compromised. You can also make a sounder decision on your pain management approach.
7. Regular adjustments
While you might experience instant relief after your initial adjustment, your chiropractic journey is not complete. With chiropractic care, regular visits are vital to maintain the effectiveness of your treatment. In fact, you do not have to experience pain to visit your chiropractor.
Is cracking bones bad for us?
Chiropractic care often finds itself at the centre of debates in the realm of healthcare due to the misconception of the nature of their practice, which is often referred to as professional bone cracking. Many question if the audible cracking sound has any benefits or if it harms us instead.
As mentioned earlier, the cracking sound does not come from our bones but rather from the release of gas bubbles that build up in our joints’ synovial fluid. In fact, studies have proven that the cracking sound, while it may be surprising to some, does not cause any damage to our body.
In fact, chiropractic care has been proven to improve overall functions, reduce pain, and boost joint mobility. With that being said, chiropractic care is not for everybody. Hence, the initial consultation is important.
While we can assure you of its safety, it is vital to address some of the potential side effects that you might experience. Some patients may experience temporary discomfort and soreness following the initial chiropractic adjustments, especially if they have undergone one that is more intense or if it is their first time. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing disorders, such as osteoporosis, may have a higher risk of experiencing side effects. Hence, it is so important that you do not conduct chiropractic care on your own at home.
Conclusion
While chiropractors are indeed bone-cracking professionals, it is vital to note that the emphasis on this term oversimplifies their capabilities and roles. They are highly trained healthcare professionals who employ a combination of adjustment techniques, lifestyle advice, and exercise to address a wide range of neuromusculoskeletal conditions.
No matter what you may require, whether knee pain treatment, lower back pain treatment, or frozen shoulder treatment, Healing Hands Chiropractic provides a holistic approach to your pain and aches. Do not delay treating your pains and aches further. Contact us to experience a pain-free lifestyle today!
