What Is a Chiropractic Adjustment and How Could It Help You Move Better?
- Dr Natalie Mackay
- Nov 12
- 3 min read
Understanding Chiropractic Care
In the United Kingdom, a chiropractor is a regulated healthcare professional trained to assess, diagnose, and support a wide range of musculoskeletal (MSK) concerns. Chiropractors look at how the spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system work together to maintain movement and overall function.
Through a combination of hands-on therapies - including spinal manipulation (often referred to as an “adjustment”) - chiropractors aim to restore proper joint motion, reduce tension, and support comfortable, confident movement. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual and may include exercise guidance, posture advice, and lifestyle recommendations to help maintain results between visits.
What Is a Chiropractic Adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment involves the application of a controlled, precise force to a specific joint - most commonly within the spine. This may be performed manually by hand or using a small handheld instrument, such as an Activator.
The technique is typically described as a high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) movement. This means the adjustment is delivered with speed and accuracy, but not with excessive force. The goal is not to make a joint “crack”, but rather to restore normal movement in an area that may be restricted or functioning less efficiently.
How Does an Adjustment Work?
Chiropractic adjustments are thought to work by stimulating sensory receptors within the small muscles and joints of the spine. This quick and precise input helps “reset” communication between the body and brain, encouraging smoother and more coordinated movement patterns.
Research led by Dr Heidi Haavik, chiropractor and neuroscientist, suggests that spinal adjustments can influence how the brain processes sensory information and controls movement. In essence, accurate input to the nervous system helps promote accurate and efficient movement output - which may support improved comfort and function for some individuals.
Reference: Haavik H. The role of spinal manipulation in disordered sensorimotor integration. ScienceDirect.
When Might a Chiropractor Recommend an Adjustment?
A chiropractor may use adjustments as part of care for regions of the spine or body that are not moving properly. This may be appropriate in cases such as:
Back, neck, or joint discomfort
Headaches that originate from the neck
Sciatica
General muscular tension or stiffness
Postural strain or imbalances
Adjustments are often combined with other approaches - such as exercise, mobility work, and self-management strategies - for best results. Research indicates that spinal manipulation can be most effective when paired with active rehabilitation and exercise programmes (Rubinstein SM et al., PubMed) (JOSPT, 2023).
Are Adjustments Suitable for Everyone?
Chiropractic adjustments can be adapted to suit people of many ages and health backgrounds, but they are not suitable for everyone. Before recommending any treatment, your chiropractor will take a detailed medical history, assess your movement, and ensure all care is appropriate and safe for you.
Techniques can be modified in pressure, speed, or style depending on your comfort and clinical needs. This personalised approach ensures that each adjustment is delivered safely and effectively.
As with any form of manual therapy, there may be mild, short-term side effects such as post-treatment soreness or stiffness. These effects are usually temporary and resolve within a day or two.
Serious complications are rare but important to acknowledge. There is a very small risk of vascular injury (such as cervical artery dissection) following specific types of high-velocity neck manipulation (Turner RC et al., PMC). Chiropractors are trained extensively to identify potential risk factors and will adapt or avoid certain techniques if necessary - or refer you to another healthcare professional when appropriate.
Is Chiropractic Right for You?
Chiropractic care is about more than relieving discomfort - it’s about helping your body move and function at its best. Through gentle, precise adjustments and supportive lifestyle advice, chiropractic care can play a valuable role in improving mobility, restoring balance, and enhancing overall wellbeing.
If you’d like to learn more or see how chiropractic might support your movement and health, you can book an appointment with one of our Doctors of Chiropractic at our Paisley or Stewarton clinics.
Written by Dr Natalie Mackay, Doctor of Chiropractic
References
Haavik H. The role of spinal manipulation in disordered sensorimotor integration. ScienceDirect.
Rubinstein SM et al. Benefits and harms of spinal manipulative therapy for low back pain: Systematic review. PubMed.
JOSPT. Cervical manipulation and neck pain: Review of benefits when combined with exercise.
Turner RC et al. Potential dangers of neck manipulation - rare vascular risks. PMC.
