Let's Talk About Necks, Baby!
Dr. Elizabeth Whooley is a chiropractor practicing in Winter Park, FL. Dr. Whooley specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions associated with the neuromusculoskeletal system, while improving each patient's functionality and quality of life. Conditions treated include sciatica, neck pain, and arthritis... more
The most common hesitation I hear about with my patients is their concern about getting their necks "cracked". Part of the reason for this is what they have seen in the movies or online, stories that are passed around, and other personal reasons. The neck is actually my favorite part of the body to adjust. Closely followed by the lower back, elbows, wrists, feet...Ok, I just like to adjust people!
While there is a small risk associated with having your neck "cracked" (or manually adjusted), your chiropractor will take a detailed health history and perform certain tests before beginning care to see if you are a candidate for having this type of adjustment. There are many techniques available to adjust your neck that doesn't involve manual corrections. In my office, I also use an instrument that "clicks" during treatment. I believe that not any one thing works for everyone so I like to be able to offer alternatives of care.
Unlike what you see in the movies or online, a manual neck adjustment is safe and very effective. The most common symptoms my patients have reported experiencing relief from following a neck adjustment include: neck and upper back pain and stiffness, headaches, arm and hand pain, dizziness, and decreased ranges of neck motion to name a few.
Once my patients "work up the nerve" to get their necks adjusted manually, there are usually only a couple of different responses. Some people say, "Wow! That was great!", while others say, "That was it? What was I so afraid of? I wish I had tried this sooner." Some patients laugh while others have sworn at the surprise :) Whichever technique you and your chiropractor choose will be effective.
The bottom line is: be very open with your chiropractor. Share your concerns and ask questions. We are here to help you. The journey to a healthier and happier you is a team effort!
