An adjustment is what chiropractors use to improve the movement pattern of a misaligned spinal joint. This may be done by hand, the use of a special mechanised table, called a drop piece table or using a spring-loaded instrument, called an activiator. The Chiropractic technique used is always matched to the individual in regards to their age, state of spinal health and their specific health goals.

Our bodies are designed to adapt to the daily stresses we place on it. Our posture when we stand, sit or lie down, the work we do, sports we play, our dietary choices, level of rest and sleep and our stress levels, can sometimes over-burden our bodies so that they no longer adapt, instead causing joints to become stuck or develop abnormal movement patterns.

Symptoms are often the only way for the body to know something is wrong. However, only around 10% of your nervous system perceives pain. Compression or stretching of nerve tissue may result in decreased nerve function without only detectable symptoms. Therefore, by the time you experience any symptoms, the spinal problems may have been present for months, even years!

Signs that may indicate the presence of misaligned spinal joints include;

– uneven or altered posture 

– uneven muscle tone, including tension 

– changes in normal joint motion and flexibility

– headaches or migraines

– changes in walking and running patterns

– issues with balance

– pins and needles and/or numbness

– neck and low back pain

– uneven hips or shoulders

As a profession, chiropractic has a very enviable health safety record. 

Because it doesn’t involve the use of any drugs (which may produce side effects, or invasive techniques such as surgery) it is considered a safe first choice physical therapy. 

In regards to the treatment of infants and children, a review by Dr. Angela Todd shows that when compared to other modalities, chiropractic care for children and infants is safe, gentle and effective.