FAQs
What is the 'Popping' Sound that Happens During Adjustments?
Your body naturally contains little 'bubbles' of nitrogen gas within your joint spaces. When Chiropractors adjust the spine or extremities manually, they temporarily bring the joint to its end range while delivering the adjustment. This forces the nitrogen gas bubble to 'pop' because there is no longer any space in the joint. Your bones never crack or pop during adjustments.
What is an Activator? ​
An activator is a chiropractic adjusting tool that was first introduced in 1967. It delivers a low force adjustment to the spine and does not elicit any 'pops'. It is a great option for patients who aren't able to lay down, those who are recovering from surgery, or anyone who prefers or requires a more gentle adjustment.
What if I don't want to be cracked?
There are many different adjusting techniques that do not require HVLA ('High Velocity-Low Amplitude') movements. Instrument-Assisted adjusting, Pediatric adjusting, and Flexion-Distraction Technique are some of the alternative adjusting styles available at Vivid Chiropractic. Patient-centered care means everyone has a voice. Your chiropractor should respect your preferences!
How Can I find TMJ relief?
TMJ is a frustrating problem that can have many contributing causes. Chiropractic care is often very helpful in the treatment of TMJ because it affects the nerves that control the jaw and mouth. In addition to correcting alignement issues within the spine, chiropractors can work with the muscles in the neck, jaw, and face. If additional treatments are needed, Dr. Donnelly refers to other specialized providers based on the patient's unique needs.
What if I've had surgery?
While surgery can limit the way patients receive chiropractic treatment, it doesn't prevent adjustments from being effective. There are many gentle techniques that will not stress the joints to full range of motion or require the use of force to be effective. Post-surgical patients often experience pain relief, better posture, and general improvements in motion with chiropractic care.
How old do you have to be to start getting adjusted?
Adjustments are safe and appropriate for infants as soon as they are born. (You'll want to work with a chiropractor who has experience with pediatric patients!) Birth can be a physically and emotionally traumatic experience for baby. Adjustment in infancy help to regulate baby's nervous system and get them acclamated to life outside the womb.
How often do I have to get adjustments?
Treatment time varies based on the needs and goals of each patient. For Dr. Donnelly, practicing with integrity is a non-negotiable. Patients are never required to commit to a certain number of visits, a predetermined length of care, or a certain financial investment. Health care is personal and, ultimately, each patient has the final say in their care plan. Typically, patients need about 2-3 months of consistent care to truly heal the issues that bring them into the office. However, this timeframe can vary greatly based on the age of the patient, their general state of health, previous injuries, etc.
Can chiropractic care help with allergies?
Yes. While chiropractic care is not a guaranteed treatment for allergy symptoms, studies have shown that adjustments are effective in helping the body to mediate immune responses, particularly in the airways. Adjustments to the upper cervical spine help to facilitate better drainage of the sinuses and eustachian tubes.
Can chiropractic care help with stress relief?
Absolutely! Chiropractic adjustments remove interference in the nervous system by alleviating nerve compression. The sympathetic 'fight or flight' part of the nervous system can often get stuck in an 'on' position. Adjustments, especially to the thoracic spine (middle back), help your body switch to 'rest and digest' mode by activating your parasympathetic nervous system.