What is Spinal Manipulation?

Spinal manipulation is a manual therapy technique involving a fast, yet precise thrust to a vertebral (spinal) joint by a highly skilled and trained PEAK Chiropractic or Physiotherapy practitioner. Spinal manipulation has been shown to improve spinal joint range of motion and reduce the sense of pain through the area administered. It is one of the various techniques used by our practitioners to improve our patients function.

Physiological Effects of Spinal Manipulation

Effects of spinal manipulation on the body:

Physical gapping of the joint space to increase range of motion.

After a spinal manipulation there is an increase in the space between each joint which allows for more physical range of movement within the manipulated joint.

Reduces the sensation of pain

Spinal manipulation has a fascinating effect on certain neurological pathways which results in a decreased sense of pain in the treated area.

The “pop”

Spinal joints are enclosed spaces filled with synovial fluid (for lubrication). As you move throughout the day pressure changes within the joint cause small gas bubbles in the fluid. When a spinal manipulation is performed the “pop” or “cavitation” is just the audible release of these bubbles.

Spinal Manipulation vs Chiropractic Care

What is the difference between Spinal Manipulation vs Chiropractic adjustment?

Nothing! The two terms are referring to exactly the same treatment method. The only slight difference is that Chiropractors have various methods to perform an adjustment using either their hands or sometimes via instrument assisted methods. These include an ‘Activator’ or ‘Drop Piece’ which are considered lower force methods of spinal manipulation.