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A chiropractic adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation or chiropractic manipulation, is a hands-on therapeutic procedure commonly performed by chiropractors to alleviate pain, improve joint function, and enhance overall well-being. It is based on the principle that the body's musculoskeletal structure, particularly the spine, plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal health in regards to motion and function.
During a chiropractic adjustment, the chiropractor applies controlled and precise force to specific areas of the spine or other joints in the body. The goal is to correct motion restrictions that can occur due to various factors such as poor posture, repetitive movements, injuries, or stress. By realigning the joints, the chiropractor aims to restore proper movement and function, which in turn may alleviate pain and promote natural healing.
Manual Therapy
Manual therapy is a broad term that encompasses various hands-on techniques. These techniques are aimed at evaluating, treating, and managing musculoskeletal conditions.
The benefits of manual therapy include:
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Pain relief: Manual therapy techniques can help reduce pain and discomfort caused by musculoskeletal conditions, injuries, or chronic conditions.
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Improved joint mobility and flexibility: By addressing joint and soft tissue restrictions, manual therapy can help enhance joint mobility and range of motion, allowing for improved movement and function.
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Enhanced tissue healing: Manual therapy techniques can stimulate blood flow, promote tissue healing, and aid in the recovery process after an injury.
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Relaxation and stress reduction: Many manual therapy techniques have a relaxing effect on the body, reducing muscle tension and promoting a sense of well-being.
Therapeutic Exercise
The goals of therapeutic exercise can vary depending on the individual's needs and condition. Some common objectives include:
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Restoring and improving range of motion: Therapeutic exercises may target specific joints or muscle groups to enhance flexibility, increase joint mobility, and restore normal movement patterns.
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Strengthening muscles: Exercises designed to strengthen muscles can help individuals regain muscle function, improve stability, and prevent further injuries.
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Managing pain and promoting relaxation: Certain therapeutic exercises, such as gentle stretching, low-impact movements can reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation. These exercises may also incorporate breathing techniques and mindfulness practices to enhance the mind-body connection and overall well-being.
Pre-natal Care
The Webster technique, a specialized chiropractic technique, is primarily known for its application during pregnancy. Dr. Adams is trained to best serve expecting mothers. On top of her Doctorate, she also has continuing education in pre-natal care through the ICPA.
Benefits of Webster Technique during pregnancy may include:
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Optimal pelvic alignment: The Webster technique aims to address pelvic misalignments and imbalances, promoting proper alignment of the pelvis. By achieving optimal pelvic alignment, it is believed that the technique may help create a more favorable environment for the growing fetus.
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Balance and stability: Correcting pelvic misalignments can improve balance and stability, which may be particularly important during pregnancy when the body undergoes postural and biomechanical changes.
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Reduced discomfort: Pregnancy often brings about various musculoskeletal discomforts, such as lower back pain, hip pain, or pelvic pain. The Webster technique may help alleviate these discomforts by restoring proper pelvic alignment, reducing tension on supporting ligaments, and improving joint mobility.
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Facilitated fetal positioning: The technique is associated with creating conditions that support optimal fetal positioning. By optimizing pelvic alignment, it is believed that the Webster technique may provide more space for the growing baby, potentially reducing the likelihood of breech or other suboptimal fetal positions.
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Eased labor and delivery: Improved pelvic alignment and balance may enhance the body's ability to adapt to the physiological process of labor and potentially facilitate a smoother delivery.
Cupping Therapy
Myofascial decompression therapy, also known as cupping therapy or myofascial cupping, is a manual therapy technique that involves the application of suction cups to the skin.
During a myofascial decompression therapy session, plastic cups are placed on specific areas of the body, typically over muscles or areas of tension. The cups create a vacuum or negative pressure when applied to the skin, which helps lift and separate the underlying tissues, including the fascia (a connective tissue that surrounds muscles and other structures).
The suction created by the cups pulls the skin and underlying tissues upward, which is believed to promote blood flow, stimulate the lymphatic system, and release restrictions within the fascia. This can help improve tissue mobility, relieve muscle tension, reduce pain, and enhance overall circulation.
Acupuncture/Needling
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. A sterile, disposable needles and gently insert them into the chosen acupuncture points. The needles are typically very thin, and the insertion is generally painless or minimally uncomfortable.
The specific effects of acupuncture can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. However, some potential benefits of acupuncture include:
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Pain relief: Acupuncture is commonly used to alleviate pain. It is believed to stimulate the release of endorphins, natural pain-relieving substances, and modulate the perception of pain signals in the nervous system.
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Stress reduction and relaxation: Acupuncture is known for its calming and relaxing effects. It may help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote a sense of overall well-being.
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Improved energy and vitality: By promoting the balanced flow of Qi, acupuncture may enhance energy levels, improve vitality, and support the body's natural healing mechanisms.
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Enhanced immune function: Acupuncture has been suggested to have immunomodulatory effects, potentially boosting immune function and resilience.
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Dr. Adams also uses a technique called active trigger point acupuncture needling. It focuses on treating myofascial trigger points, which are hyperirritable knots or bands of muscles that can cause pain and referred sensations.
In active trigger point acupuncture, the acupuncturist identifies trigger points in the muscles and inserts thin needles directly into those points. The aim is to stimulate the trigger points, releasing muscle tension, improving blood flow, and reducing pain. This technique is often combined with movement or specific exercises to actively engage the muscles during the treatment.
Active trigger point acupuncture can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing musculoskeletal pain, tension headaches, or conditions characterized by trigger point activity. The technique aims to deactivate trigger points, restore muscle function, and promote pain relief.
