Chiropractic adjustments are targeted, hands-on techniques used to improve spinal alignment and joint function. The purpose is to restore normal motion in areas where joints have become restricted, often due to stress, injury, or poor posture. These restrictions can affect surrounding muscles and nerves, leading to discomfort, stiffness, or pain. By applying gentle, controlled pressure to specific joints, chiropractors help relieve tension and improve overall movement.

At Lakeside Spine and Wellness Inc., chiropractic adjustments are tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether someone is dealing with chronic back pain, neck tension, or headaches, the goal is to improve alignment, reduce nerve irritation, and support the body’s natural healing process. Most people find the adjustments to be quick and relatively comfortable — sometimes followed by a sense of relief or increased mobility.

These techniques are often part of a larger care plan that may include stretching, exercise, and lifestyle advice. Chiropractic adjustments can be an effective way to manage pain, support recovery, and maintain better function in daily life, especially when combined with consistent care.

What That “Popping” Sound Really Means

If you’ve ever had a chiropractic adjustment, you’ve likely heard a popping or cracking sound — and it’s completely normal. That sound isn’t bones cracking or anything harmful. It’s called joint cavitation and happens when gas bubbles (mostly nitrogen and carbon dioxide) are released from the fluid inside your joints.

Between the bones in your spine and other joints is a capsule filled with synovial fluid. This fluid helps lubricate the joint and reduce friction. When pressure builds up — from movement or a chiropractic adjustment — it can cause a quick release of gas, creating that familiar popping noise. It’s similar to the sound you hear when cracking your knuckles.

The sound itself isn’t a sign of success or failure — some effective adjustments don’t make a noise at all. What matters is the result: improved joint movement, reduced tension, and better overall function. Most people feel immediate relief or a sense of ease after an adjustment, regardless of whether there was a pop.

Are Adjustments Safe for Everyone?

Chiropractic adjustments are generally considered safe for most people when performed by a licensed and experienced chiropractor. They’re commonly used to help with back pain, neck tension, joint stiffness, and headaches. However, like any healthcare procedure, they may not be appropriate for everyone in every situation.

For healthy adults, chiropractic adjustments are usually low-risk and well tolerated. Some people may feel mild soreness or fatigue after an adjustment, similar to what you’d feel after a new workout. These effects typically go away within a day or two.

That said, certain conditions require extra caution. People with severe osteoporosis, advanced arthritis, spinal instability, or a history of stroke may need a modified approach or a different form of care altogether. Pregnant patients and children can often receive chiropractic treatment, but adjustments are typically gentler and adapted to their needs.

Before any treatment, a good chiropractor will conduct a full health history and examination to make sure adjustments are safe and appropriate for you. If needed, they may refer you to another specialist or request imaging like X-rays. Open communication and a personalized plan are key to getting the most benefit from chiropractic care — safely and effectively.