Chiropractic Adjustments in Kingsport, TN
What an adjustment does
When a spinal joint is stiff and irritated, surrounding muscles tighten to protect it, which limits movement further. An adjustment moves the joint through a small, quick range, which can reduce pain and muscle tension and improve motion. The pop you sometimes hear is gas releasing from the joint fluid; it isn't bones cracking and it isn't required for the adjustment to work.
Adjustments work best as part of a plan that includes soft tissue work and corrective exercise, so the improvement lasts.
Techniques Dr. Douglas uses
| Technique | What it is | Often a good fit for |
|---|---|---|
| Diversified | Hands-on, high-velocity, low-amplitude adjustment; the most widely used chiropractic technique | Most adults and athletes |
| Activator | A handheld instrument delivers a light, fast impulse | People who prefer no twisting or popping, older adults, sensitive areas |
| Arthrostim | An instrument that delivers rapid, gentle percussive impulses | Gentle adjustments and tight muscles |
| Thompson drop table | Table sections drop slightly as the adjustment is delivered, reducing the force needed | Low back and pelvis, pregnancy, people who want less force |
More detail on each: chiropractic techniques.
Conditions it's used for
- •Back pain and sciatica
- •Neck pain and headaches
- •Herniated disc and pinched nerve, using gentler techniques
- •Scoliosis, for comfort and mobility
- •Mid-back stiffness, rib pain, and posture-related pain
- •Neck and back pain after car accidents
What to expect during a session
After your exam, Dr. Douglas explains which areas he plans to adjust and which technique he'll use, and checks that you're comfortable with it. You'll lie on a padded table; the adjustment itself takes seconds. Follow-up visits run 15 to 30 minutes, usually with soft tissue work and exercise review. Some people feel looser right away; mild soreness for a day or two is also normal.
Is it right for you? Safety
For most people with mechanical back and neck pain, spinal manipulation by a licensed chiropractor is considered low risk. It isn't appropriate over fractures, infections or tumors, with advanced osteoporosis, or with certain spinal cord or blood vessel conditions; the exam screens for these. Serious complications from neck manipulation are rare, but screening always comes first, and gentler techniques are available if you prefer.
Common Questions
Clinical Sources & Guidelines
- Qaseem A, et al. Noninvasive Treatments for Acute, Subacute, and Chronic Low Back Pain: A Clinical Practice Guideline From the American College of Physicians. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2017;166(7):514-530.
Ready to be seen?
Call 423-239-9122 or book online. We don't take walk-ins, but most new patients are seen within a week, and we check your insurance benefits before your first visit.