The following is an excerpt from "A Natural Method of Health Care - Introduction to Chiropractic" 10th edition. This important reference, a $12.95 value, is given to all new patients. If you would like a copy please contact our office, the Florida Chiropractic Association or you may order from Amazon.com.

How Does A Doctor Of Chiropractic Adjust My Spine?

"An adjustment," as doctors of chiropractic use the term, means the specific manipulation of one or more spinal or other malfunctioning joints (articulations). These abnormalities within the spinal column may cause irritability within the nervous system and interfere with normal nerve supply. Doctors of chiropractic spend years learning to examine the spine and understand the complex motions of the vertebrae. Additionally, they learn to administer a specific spinal adjustment. Considerable skill and dexterity are required to become proficient in the art of chiropractic adjusting.

If you remember the theory of chiropractic that many ailments may come about as a result of improper nerve innervation - you will understand why your doctor will do everything he or she can to restore proper nerve function and proper structural mobility to your body. The primary treatment by your doctor will be specific vertebral adjustments or "manipulations," as they are sometimes called. Particular attention will be paid to that area of your spine where a spinal subluxation (dysfunction or lesion) has been detected. Once these spinal areas have been adjusted (manipulated) to restore normal movement, the resulting change may have a positive influence on your area of complaint or discomfort.

The adjustment is usually given by hand. It consists of placing the patient on a precisely designed adjusting table, or chair, or other equipment, and then applying pressure, using specialized chiropractic techniques, to the areas of the spine that are out of proper alignment or that do not move properly within their normal range of motion.

Doctors of chiropractic employ a wide variety of treatment methods, and the specific procedure to be used will be determined following a careful evaluation of your physical examination, case history and other findings.

The experience of your doctor in manipulative procedures will determine the type of manipulation and the frequency with which you will be manipulated. The number of treatments required by each patient may vary to some degree, depending on the severity and duration of your problem. Your doctor has available a variety of measurements and patient questionnaires designed to monitor your progress.

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