This is a technique practiced by different health care professionals including osteopathic physicians, physical therapists, chiropractors and naturopathic physicians.
During spinal manipulation, practitioners use their bare hands or sometimes a special device and apply a controlled force to a particular joint of the spine.
The amount of force that is applied is based on the kind of manipulation that is used.
The objective of this treatment is pain relief and improved physical functioning.
Who Needs Spinal Manipulation? Lower back pain is a very common condition among many people and generally improves with self care.
You can remain active while taking pain relieving medication or applying heat to manage the condition.
However, there are times when the situation goes out of control, the condition becomes chronic and lasts for several months or years.
Your physical condition deteriorates and movement becomes painful.
It results in loss of productivity and wages and as well.
If left untreated, this condition can prove to be debilitating and can be a challenge to identify, study and treat.
In situations such as this, health care professionals who have been trained to use this technique can help in improving functioning and movement.
Exercise, massage, physical therapy and spinal manipulation are the options that can be used to provide relief from back pain.
How Does It Help? A condition known as cauda equine syndrome, which is a narrowing of a segment of the spinal cord causes the nerves to become pinched.
This can lead to weakness, pain and a loss of feeling in either or both of your limbs.
The high velocity low amplitude (HVLA) thrust and massage techniques that are used in spinal manipulation helps release the pressure on the nerves.
This is a safe treatment when performed by a licensed and trained practitioner.
Slight discomfort in the affected area is one of the most common side effects but the discomfort is minimal and tends to recede within an hour to two days.
It is very rare for any serious complications to arise.
Long-Term Benefits The objective of the manipulation is to achieve joint cavitation.
While pressure is being applied to the back, there is generally a cracking or a popping sound and.
This audible release is what distinguishes this technique from other massages.
Regular sessions with the therapist help in reducing back pain and provide continuous and permanent relief.
Both, pain and dysfunction can be dealt with in an effective manner.
Before you start on any spinal manipulation therapy, inform your health provider about any complementary health practices that you have been using.
They should be able to get a complete picture about how you manage your health.
This will ensure that the care you receive is coordinated and safe.