5 Chiropractic Terms You Need to Know
By Kate Gardner
You're ready. Your lower back has been killing you for weeks now and ibuprofen just isn't cutting it anymore. You dream of feeling better, and you don't want to simply cover up the pain with painkillers anyway. You need to get rid of it. It's time to go to the chiropractor.
Going to the chiropractor can bring relief from your pain. But if it's your first visit you might be a little nervous, especially if you're not sure what to expect. Fortunately, your chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic will walk you through your treatment, making sure you understand what they will be doing and how it will help you.
Terms to Know
As you work with your chiropractor, they may use some terms you've never heard before. Here's a quick lesson in chiropractic lingo from VeryWellHealth.com to prepare you for your visit.
Vertebrae - These are the bones that make up your spine. When these bones are restricted, commonly called misaligned (not in the right position), it can cause pain, discomfort, and restricted range of motion.
Joint subluxation - Joint subluxations are at the heart of the problems that chiropractors treat. A joint subluxation, also known as a joint restriction, happens when two vertebrae are out of proper position (alignment). This can be the result of a sudden injury (like if you picked up something too heavy) or can come about more gradually (like the tech neck we get from looking down at our phones all the time). Subluxations can cause improper movement of the joint or can compress nerves as they exit the spine.
Motion segments - Motion segments consist of two connected vertebrae and the disc between them.
Adjustment - Chiropractic adjustments are the bedrock of chiropractic care. Chiropractors apply directed pressure to the affected joints to bring them back into proper alignment.
Spinal manipulation - Spinal manipulations are adjustments of the spine. There are different levels of spinal manipulations, depending on the force needed. Chiropractors are among the few clinicians allowed to provide the high levels of spinal manipulations.
Your First Visit
Now that you know some of the words you're likely to encounter at your first chiropractic visit, it's time to go! You don't need to make an appointment at The Joint Chiropractic, just walk in when it's convenient for you. Many locations have evening and weekend hours so that chiropractic care can fit into your schedule. Be sure to find out about packages and special pricing that can make your care even more affordable.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lincoln, Neb.