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April 17, 2023

Chiropractic Adjustment vs Spinal Manipulation

Spinal Manipulation

The difference between a chiropractic adjustment and a spinal manipulation may seem subtle at first, but there is actually a pretty big difference. They are two different techniques that are both used to heal pain or discomfort and maintain optimal body function. Both of these treatments have their advantages, as well as different outcomes depending on your personal needs, so let’s discover together which approach is best for you!

What is a Chiropractic Adjustment?

Chiropractic adjustments are used to reduce nervous system interference most commonly related to stress to help improve overall body function. The chiropractor uses specific techniques on the vertebra to correct subluxations. The entire treatment focuses increasing the range of motion in the specified joint, and improving nerve irritability and overall function. This can help relieve lower back pain, neck pain, digestion issues, sleep problems, anxiety and other targeted discomforts in the body.

What is Spinal Manipulation?

Spinal manipulation, otherwise known as manual therapy or spinal manipulative therapy, is a beneficial treatment that utilizes gentle joint movement and light jolting to help improve musculoskeletal wellness.

It relieves pressure on joints, reduces inflammation, and restores nerve function. Spinal manipulation is frequently used to treat neck, back, shoulder, and headache pain.

What is the Difference?

Manipulation targets the entire spine and is typically used to provide short-term pain relief.

A chiropractic adjustment focuses on a specific area of the spine (rather than the whole spine) and is often more effective for long-term relief.

Different Types of Spinal Manipulation

Chiropractors are well-equipped to help improve your physical well-being – with over 100 forms of spinal manipulation available. From force and twist therapies, cold or heat treatments, stretching machines, or electrical stimulation – there are plenty of ways chiropractic care can be used to gain dramatic health improvements.

Are Chiropractic Adjustments Safe?

If you seek treatment from a trained and licensed chiropractor, chiropractic adjustments are safe and effective. Chiropractic techniques are not just for back pain and can treat a variety of pain and other ailments. It can often be used instead for medications and surgeries, which is why it is considered a holistic medical practice.

No Two Chiropractors are the Same

And no two patients are the same, either. With a multitude of approaches and tools available, chiropractors constantly strive to find the right techniques for each individual patient.

If you are in the Lansing, Michigan area and are seeking pain relief, don’t hesitate, to call (517) 781-4884 or click here to make an appointment with Moore Life Health and Healing and receive the best course of action available. You deserve exceptional care – let us take care of you today!


To find out more about Dr. Ryan and Dr. Allyson and their chiropractic practice and philosophy, click here.

Learn more about their healthy lifestyle and get some great tips on making some small changes that will have huge benefits.

Staying Healthy Moore Chiropractic Style