The Cracking Truth about Chiropractic Care

Some chiropractors are making their mark on social media, and chances are you’re one of those people who are drawn to watching chiropractic adjustments on YouTube and TikTok. For some unusual reason, watching individuals having their shoulders, backs, and necks cracked gives viewers a sense of relief or satisfaction.

A chiropractic video usually begins with a patient describing his/her aches and pains to a chiropractor, who then proceeds by cracking the problematic body points. That distinctive cracking sound or ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) as they call it, makes these videos addictive to watch.

Chiropractic care is becoming popular because it gives patients an alternative to drugs and invasive procedures.

What is chiropractic care?

According to WebMD, chiropractors use hands-on spinal manipulation and other alternative treatment to restore mobility to joints that may have been affected by tissue injury. The goals of chiropractic adjustment include restoring proper alignment and improving the body’s physical function, relieving pain, and promoting the body’s self-healing ability without surgery or medication, thus, improving overall health and well-being.

What are the benefits of chiropractic care?

Marie, 42 years old, suffers from chronic headaches and jaw pain associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. She tried several treatment procedures including wearing braces but that didn’t get rid of the pain. Feeling desperate, Marie decided to heed the advice of her friend to go to a licensed chiropractor. It turned out to be the best decision she ever made because it significantly reduced the strain on her jaw joints and alleviated the symptoms of TMJ.

People who seek chiropractic adjustment usually complain of headaches, low back pain, and neck pain. Cleveland Clinic enumerates the following benefits of chiropractic care:

Enhances spine mobility and other joints

Helps relieve pain and reduces symptoms of osteoarthritis and other chronic conditions

Reduces neck-related headaches and migraines

Mends minor neck or spine injuries, such as whiplash

Corrects posture

What are the risks of chiropractic care?

Chiropractic adjustment is safe according to Mayo Clinic when executed by a trained and licensed chiropractor. Complications linked with chiropractic adjustment are generally rare, but they may include:

Compression of nerves in the lower spinal column

Herniated
disk 

Stroke linked to
neck manipulation

Individuals with the following conditions are highly discouraged from seeking chiropractic adjustment:

  • Advanced or serious cases of osteoporosis
  • Tingling, numbness, or weakness of an arm or leg
  • Increased risk of stroke
  • Spinal cancer
  • Bone abnormality in the upper neck

Is chiropractic care for you?

Chiropractic care involves the use of hands-on spinal manipulation to help bring back mobility to joints that may have suffered from various tissue injuries. Chiropractic care has its share of benefits that improve overall health and well-being. Although the risks are rare, it is still important to be aware of them. Keep in mind that not all people respond to chiropractic adjustments the same way so it’s best to talk to your doctor to determine if it is suitable for your condition. 

Resources:

Mayo Clinic
WebMD
Cleveland Clinic



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