The Science Behind Spinal Manipulation

Spinal manipulation is a noninvasive technique often used by chiropractors that involves the application of a controlled force to misaligned spinal joints. According to Dr. Jack Walker of SFL Chiropractic in Delray Beach, the scientific principles behind spinal manipulation are rooted in the technique’s ability to improve joint function and movement while stimulating the nervous system and reducing pain.

The Science Behind Spinal Manipulation

Spinal manipulation helps restore a spine to proper alignment, simultaneously releasing built-up tension in muscles and ligaments and resetting the nervous system to perform optimally. While continuing research further examines the technique’s full effects, spinal manipulation remains invaluable for treating musculoskeletal issues, as noted below.

Potential Effects

Spinal manipulation applies a quick, precise thrust to correct misaligned joints, which restrict movements and compromise the nervous system, increasing stress and leading to pain in surrounding body areas.

Pain Relief

Pain relief provided by spinal manipulation is attributed to the stimulation of the body’s largest nerve fibers, helping to block pain signs from smaller nerves. Additionally, adjustments created by the controlled force used in spinal manipulation may help improve blood circulation and drainage of lymphatics, decreasing local inflammation.

Biomechanical Advantages

Joint misalignments restrict movement and mobility, which causes one to compensate by overusing other joints, which may increase their wear and tear. This non-invasive technique helps restore appropriate joint function while improving spinal flexibility and reducing stiffness.

Neurological Benefits

Neurologically, spinal manipulation affects the central and peripheral nervous systems in various ways, such as enhancing motor control by resetting irregular nerve signals. The joint and muscles’ sensory receptors (i.e., proprioceptors) are stimulated by spinal manipulation, making clients more aware of their movement and body positioning. In addition, the technique tends to release pain-relieving brain chemicals (i.e., endorphins).

Research and Evidence

Spinal manipulation is recommended to help manage acute low back pain. A JAMA systematic review suggests there is supporting evidence for spinal manipulation’s effectiveness in reducing pain and improving function.

Research within the Annals of Internal Medicine denotes that spinal manipulation may help reduce neck pain for immediate and long-term relief.

Spinal manipulation, according to the NIH, is often used to treat tension-type and cervicogenic headaches, with studies suggesting the technique offers symptom relief.  

Finally, spinal manipulation is often part of a routine of holistic care that includes reduction of muscle tension with soft tissue therapy and education about how exercise strengthens the muscles supporting the spine.

Consult a Delray Beach, FL, Chiropractor about Spinal Manipulations

For more information, contact Dr. Walker or an SFL Chiropractic staff member at 561-461-7240 or online.