There are two different chiropractic techniques. In “mobilisation”, gentle techniques restore the natural play of the joint. The joints are carefully mobilised so that no pain is caused. In “targeted manipulation”, a movement puts the misaligned spine back into place and thereby releases the blockage.
First, the doctor places the patient in a position suitable for treatment. The blocked joint is then carefully tensioned in the free direction as a test. This movement should not be painful.
In the decisive step, the doctor uses special hand grips to give a small, quick impulse just beyond the gentle end of the joint’s range of movement. This is also done in the freely movable direction of the joint and is normally not painful.
If the treatment is successful, the blockage is released and the complaints improve almost immediately. In many cases, targeted rhythmic movement of the spine is enough to release it. Immediately after treatment, the muscle tension disappears and full mobility is restored. Mild muscle soreness may remain. Often 1–2 attempts are enough to bring relief.
A cracking sound can usually be heard during treatment. It occurs when the joint surfaces separate and is not necessarily a sign of successful treatment.
If the blockage of the vertebra was caused by a disease of internal organs, the complaints often return after a short time. Lasting success then depends on treating the underlying disease.
To prevent blockages from recurring, regular exercise is important. Well-developed back muscles support and relieve the spine like a corset. Suitable techniques are learned and practised in physiotherapy.
What are the risks of chiropractic? Correctly applied, chiropractic poses almost no danger to a healthy, stable spine. On severely damaged vertebrae, for example in osteoporosis (bone loss), manipulation can, however, cause further damage. If a bone disease is suspected, X-rays are taken before treatment.
Chiropractic treatment of the cervical spine is a special case: because the arteries to the head run in this area, chiropractic can affect the blood supply to the brain. Treatment of the cervical spine should therefore be particularly gentle and only be carried out by experienced therapists.