Chiropractors are licensed health care providers, and they focus on the spine, joints, and nervous system. They typically complete four years of doctoral training and hold a license. When patients report back, neck, or joint pain, chiropractors use manual therapy as a primary method. Here are four ways chiropractors apply hands-on techniques to address pain:
Improving Blood Flow
Muscles and joints need a steady blood supply, and injured tissue may have reduced circulation. Blood delivers oxygen and nutrients to tissue and carries away waste products. To help move fluid through tight or inflamed areas, a chiropractor can use manual techniques. Typical options include:
- Soft tissue massage: Firm strokes along muscle fibers to loosen tight areas
- Instrument-assisted therapy: Smooth metal or plastic tools that glide over the skin and scar tissue
- Targeted joint mobilization: Slow, repeated movements through a joint’s range of motion
- Assisted stretching: Guided stretches that lengthen shortened muscles
Stimulating Nervous System
The spine protects the spinal cord, and nerves branch out from it to every part of the body. When a joint moves poorly, nearby nerves may send more pain signals to the brain. Manual therapy targets this communication between joints and nerves.
During treatment, a chiropractor applies pressure or movement to joints that show restricted motion. This input activates mechanoreceptors in the joint tissue. These sensors detect movement and pressure, and they send signals through the nervous system.
This process is based on the gate control theory of pain. The theory proposes that non-painful signals compete with pain signals on their way to the brain. Results differ from person to person, so your chiropractor will track your response over several visits.
Controlling Muscle Spasms
A muscle spasm occurs when a muscle contracts and does not relax on its own. Spasms often form around an injured joint, and they may limit your range of motion. Chiropractors treat spasms with direct, hands-on methods.
One method is trigger point therapy on tight knots within the muscle. The chiropractor presses on the knot for several seconds, and the pressure gradually eases. Another method, called muscle energy technique, asks you to push gently against resistance while the chiropractor holds the limb. The muscle relaxes afterward, and your chiropractor then stretches it to a longer position.
Making Adjustments
A spinal adjustment is a quick, controlled thrust to a specific joint, and it differs from slower mobilization. You may hear a popping sound, which comes from gas releasing inside the joint fluid. The sound does not indicate success or failure of the adjustment. Before your chiropractor adjusts a joint, they will review your health history and examine you.
- Activator method: A spring-loaded handheld tool that delivers a low-force impulse
- Drop table technique: A table section that drops slightly during the thrust
- Flexion-distraction: A slow, rhythmic stretch of the lower spine on a specialized table
Visit a Chiropractor Today
Manual therapy includes nerve stimulation, circulation techniques, spasm treatment, and spinal adjustments. If you have ongoing back, neck, or joint pain, a chiropractic exam may show which approach fits your situation. Bring a list of your symptoms and current medications to your first visit. Contact a chiropractic clinic to schedule an appointment, or call with questions about treatment.