A chiropractic adjustment, or manipulation, is the most common chiropractic service provided by chiropractors. It is a procedure in which a very gentle and specific force (using either hands or a hand-held tool) is used to move a restricted joint back into proper alignment. A small amount of gas may be released from within the joint space which sometimes will make an audible “pop” or “crack” sound, much like cracking a knuckle. By re-aligning the joint, one will often notice an increased range of motion and mobility as well as decreased pain or discomfort. Extensive research shows that chiropractic treatment can help with conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, headaches, rib dysfunction, shoulder and knee pain, and much more.

Muscle tension or tightness in the body can lead to joint dysfunction when left untreated. That is why it’s important to address not only the spine, but also the muscular component of pain and discomfort for the body to fully heal.  The goal of soft tissue mobilization is to break up sticky or knotted muscles (adhesions) to help relax some of the tension in these areas. Soft tissue work can be performed with hands-on treatment, such as trigger point therapy or deep tissue massage, or with an instrument. Decreasing tension in muscles helps to decrease neck stiffness and low back discomfort, and works hand-in-hand with the chiropractic adjustment.

If you are looking to get the most out of your visit, it is important that you follow some sort of stretching/strengthening routine after treatment. Being consistent with your recommended rehab will ensure that you stay feeling better for longer, and will help to prevent flare-ups. By stretching out tight muscles and strengthening weak muscles, you will be conditioning your body to hold your adjustment. Addressing and working to reverse bad postural patterns can also help to keep you out of pain and keep you functioning at a higher level on a daily basis.

RockTape has gained a lot of attention in the past several years due to its increased use on elite athletes. Why are CrossFit athletes, marathon runners, and Olympic athletes using it? Because it works!RockTape is not like the typical athletic tape you may be used to. It is stretchy and actually moves with your body. It has multiple uses, but the most common are for pain relief, to decrease inflammation, help with posture, and to assist with normal range of motion. It works by lifting the skin away from the muscle and fascia to decrease inflammation and allow blood and oxygen to flow to the area which promotes healing. It also signals the nervous system to decrease pain and help cue posture and form. RockTape benefits those recovering from ankle sprains, shoulder injuries, low back pain, or upper back pain. It can also help with those doing intense training for races or marathons, CrossFit competitions, and other extreme physical activity.