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What Is Spinal Manipulation?
Spinal manipulation therapy (SMT) is a manual technique used all over the world by therapists and practitioners to treat certain spinal conditions.
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What is Spinal Manipulation Therapy?
Spinal Manipulation Therapy (SMT) is a manual technique used all over the world by therapists and practitioners to treat certain spinal conditions. This blog will give you insight into what Spinal Manipulation is—and explain the reasoning as to why we use this technique and how it may be of benefit to you!
Benefits & How it Works
SMT, which is often referred to as a spinal adjustment, is when a qualified and trained practitioner delivers a fast yet precise thrust to a joint of the spine. The practitioner positions the joint in a manner that builds tension, bringing the joint to its end range. The quick thrust safely takes the joint just slightly past this end range which results in a new and increased joint range.
Why Do We Use SMT?
The research behind spinal manipulation has found there are a few main benefits from using this technique. has found there are a few main benefits from using this technique. Increase in joint range of motion SMT increases the physical space within the joint capsule allowing for a temporary increase in range of motion. Decreased sense of pain The thrust performed during SMT is a large mechanical stimulus that changes how your nervous system perceives pain in that area.
How Can SMT Benefit You?
If you are someone suffering from low back pain, two of the most common associated symptoms you will be experiencing are pain and stiffness. As mentioned in the points above SMT aims to decrease your sense of pain and increase your range of motion. Although the effects of SMT have been found to be temporary, it can provide some relief from your pain, and increase your function to allow for a window of opportunity for comfortable exercise. SMT is most effective when used in conjunction with a <a href=”/archives/services/physiotherapy-brisbane/”>home exercise program</a>—that will aim at addressing weakness and dysfunction that may be contributing to the underlying cause of your back pain!
The POP!
Often but not always, there is an audible popping noise which is associated with an adjustment. This is built up gas in your joints being released due to a change in pressure. Joints are fully enclosed spaces full of fluid for lubrication and joint nutrition. As you move throughout your day tiny gas bubbles form due to changes of pressure within the joint. These gas bubbles build up in the joint space over time. Sometimes you may experience a pop or cavitation without any specific manipulation, even just from a quick movement. This is not detrimental.
Self Cracking
One of the most common questions we hear is: Is cracking my own neck bad? If your neck is sore and it feels better after you crack your own neck, there is most likely an underlying dysfunction that needs to be addressed by a trained professional. Another key point is that it is a technique we use to temporarily increase joint range of motion. If you are continuously self-manipulating then it is likely that you are causing this increased range of motion too often.
Ready to Experience the Benefits of Spinal Manipulation Therapy?
Our qualified and trained practitioners can deliver precise spinal manipulation therapy tailored to your needs. Whether you’re suffering from back pain, neck stiffness, or looking to improve your joint mobility, we can help you find relief and restore function. Book your spinal manipulation therapy assessment today and start your journey to better health.
Get Relief from Back and Neck Pain Today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spinal Manipulation Therapy (SMT) and how does it work?
Spinal Manipulation Therapy (SMT), also known as spinal adjustment, is when a qualified and trained practitioner delivers a fast yet precise thrust to a joint of the spine. The practitioner positions the joint in a manner that builds tension, bringing the joint to its end range. The quick thrust safely takes the joint just slightly past this end range which results in a new and increased joint range.
What are the main benefits of spinal manipulation therapy?
Research behind spinal manipulation has found there are a few main benefits from using this technique. SMT increases the physical space within the joint capsule allowing for a temporary increase in range of motion. Additionally, the thrust performed during SMT is a large mechanical stimulus that changes how your nervous system perceives pain in that area, providing decreased sense of pain.
Is spinal manipulation therapy effective for back pain?
If you are someone suffering from low back pain, two of the most common associated symptoms you will be experiencing are pain and stiffness. SMT aims to decrease your sense of pain and increase your range of motion. Although the effects of SMT have been found to be temporary, it can provide some relief from your pain and increase your function to allow for a window of opportunity for comfortable exercise.
What is the popping sound during spinal manipulation?
Often but not always, there is an audible popping noise which is associated with an adjustment. This is built up gas in your joints being released due to a change in pressure. Joints are fully enclosed spaces full of fluid for lubrication and joint nutrition. These gas bubbles build up in the joint space over time. This popping sound is not detrimental and is a normal part of the adjustment process.
Is it safe to crack your own neck?
If your neck is sore and it feels better after you crack your own neck there is most likely an underlying dysfunction that needs to be addressed by a trained professional. While cracking your neck occasionally is not necessarily harmful, continuously self-manipulating is likely causing this increased range of motion too often, which can be problematic.
How long do the effects of spinal manipulation therapy last?
Although the effects of SMT have been found to be temporary, it can provide some relief from your pain and increase your function to allow for a window of opportunity for comfortable exercise. SMT is most effective when used in conjunction with a home exercise program that aims at addressing weakness and dysfunction contributing to the underlying cause of back pain.