Tag: Chiropractor Sioux City

Cox Flexion Distraction Technique

If you’ve ever experienced a pinched nerve in your neck or back that causes pain to radiate into an arm or leg, you know how disruptive it can be to your everyday life. Finding the right treatment to relieve that discomfort and restore mobility is critical. One of the most effective chiropractic techniques for treating these problems is Cox Flexion Distraction. This safe, gentle, and non-invasive method helps to decrease pressure on the nerves and discs. In this blog, we’ll explore what Cox Flexion Distraction is, how it works, and how it can help you.

What Is Cox Flexion Distraction?

Cox Flexion Distraction is a specialized chiropractic technique developed by James Cox, DC. This method is designed to treat a wide range of spinal conditions using a unique table that moves in specific ways to decompress the spine. It’s a hands-on, low-force adjustment approach that gently alleviates pressure on the spine and spinal nerves.

How Does It Work?

Unlike traditional chiropractic adjustments, which may involve sudden, forceful movements, Cox Flexion Distraction is a slow and controlled technique. Here’s how it works:

  1. It lowers disc pressure to as low as -192mm Hg. This creates a vacuum effect which helps to pull the herniated or bulging disc away from the nerve that is being pinched.
  2. It opens the space between the vertebrae where the nerve exists the spine by up to 28%, which reduces pressure on the spinal nerves.
  3. It restores motion to the spinal joints.

Who Can Benefit from Cox Flexion Distraction?

Cox Flexion Distraction is a versatile technique that can help a variety of spinal issues. Some common conditions it can help include:

  • Herniated or Bulging Discs: If you’re dealing with a herniated disc, the disc material is likely pressing on nearby nerves, causing pain and discomfort. Cox Flexion Distraction helps reduce this pressure, allowing the disc to retract and the inflammation to decrease.
  • Sciatica: This condition occurs when the sciatic nerve is being pinched, often due to a herniated or bulging disc or spinal stenosis. The Cox technique can gently decompress the spine, relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve and reducing pain that radiates down the leg.
  • Degenerative Disc Disease: With age or wear and tear, the spinal discs may degenerate, leading to chronic back pain. Cox Flexion Distraction can help treat disc degeneration by creating space and promoting movement in the affected area.
  • Spinal Stenosis: This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the nerves. Cox Flexion Distraction helps create space in the spinal canal, relieving pressure on the nerves and improving symptoms.
  • Facet Joint Syndrome: When the joints between the vertebrae become inflamed, they can cause significant discomfort. Cox Flexion Distraction gently mobilizes the joints, promoting better function and reducing pain.

Why Choose Cox Flexion Distraction?

One of the main reasons people choose Cox Flexion Distraction is that it’s safe, gentle, and effective. For those who may not tolerate traditional chiropractic adjustments, this low-force technique provides an excellent alternative.

Here are a few key benefits:

  • Non-surgical: This is a conservative treatment method that can often help patients avoid surgery.
  • Minimal Discomfort: Many patients find that Cox Flexion Distraction is more comfortable compared to other forms of spinal manipulation. The slow, controlled movements are gentle and relieve pressure without sudden or forceful adjustments.
  • Proven Results: Cox Flexion Distraction has been extensively studied and shown to provide significant pain relief and improved mobility in patients with various spinal conditions.

Is Cox Flexion Distraction Right for You?

If you’re dealing with back or neck pain, sciatica, or any of the conditions mentioned above, Cox Flexion Distraction may be a great option for you. It’s especially well-suited for people looking for a non-surgical, non-forceful solution to spine pain.

Ask Flynn Chiropractic about whether this technique could be beneficial for your specific condition. With its ability to reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote spinal health, Cox Flexion Distraction could be the solution you’ve been searching for.

Interested in Learning More?

At Flynn Chiropractic, we specialize in providing Cox Flexion Distraction therapy. If you’re struggling with spinal pain or looking for a gentle and effective treatment option, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a consultation.

Thompson Drop Technique: A Gentle Approach to Chiropractic Care

When it comes to chiropractic adjustments, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” method. Every patient is unique, and so are their needs. That’s why chiropractors use various techniques to ensure optimal care for each individual. One of the most popular and patient-friendly methods is the Thompson Drop Technique. Whether you’re familiar with chiropractic care or new to it, this gentle yet effective technique is worth understanding.

What Is the Thompson Drop Technique?

The Thompson Drop Technique was developed by Dr. J. Clay Thompson in the 1950s. It’s a chiropractic method that uses a specially designed table with segmented drop pieces. There are usually drop pieces for the neck, upper/mid back, lower back, and pelvis. The drop pieces are slightly elevated under the area of the spine that is to be adjusted and they drop down during the adjustment.

Here’s how it works: The chiropractor applies a controlled, quick thrust to the area of the spine or joint that needs realignment, and the drop pieces of the table simultaneously drop in response to the force. This action helps with the adjustment by utilizing the natural force of gravity, making the process smoother and more efficient.

How Does the Thompson Drop Technique Differ from Traditional Adjustments?

Traditional chiropractic adjustments often involve manual manipulations where chiropractors use their hands to apply a specific amount of force to move joints or vertebrae. There is usually a cracking sound during the adjustment. Many times the lower back and neck are twisted during the adjustment. While these methods can be effective, they might feel more intense for some patients, especially those with sensitivities, arthritis, chronic pain, or fear of adjustments.

The Thompson Drop Technique, on the other hand, is known for its gentleness. The drop piece amplifies the force of the thrust from the chiropractor, so the chiropractor doesn’t have to apply as much pressure during the adjustment. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who may not tolerate more forceful techniques well.

Who Can Benefit from the Thompson Drop Technique?

One of the major advantages of the Thompson Drop Technique is its versatility. It’s suitable for a wide range of patients, including:

  • Patients with chronic pain who require a more delicate approach to chiropractic care.
  • Individuals with spinal misalignments that need to be corrected without using high-force manipulations.
  • Those with joint conditions or stiffness that make traditional adjustments uncomfortable.
  • Patients who are nervous about the intensity of manual chiropractic adjustments.
  • Elderly patients or those with osteoporosis, who may need a gentler method due to bone fragility.

Key Benefits of the Thompson Drop Technique

  • Gentle yet Effective: The technique is designed to deliver results with minimal force and discomfort. The drop pieces help align the spine and joints without aggressive force, making the experience smoother.
  • Comfortable for Patients: Many patients report feeling more comfortable and relaxed during the Thompson Drop Technique compared to traditional “cracking adjustments.” With this technique the adjustment is done primarily with you lying face down on the table without any twisting and turning of your neck or lower back. The cracking sound does not occur with this adjustment.
  • Precise Adjustments: This technique allows for targeted adjustments in specific areas of the spine or joints. The chiropractor can adjust each drop section of the table to match the unique needs of the patient.
  • Improves Functionality and Mobility: By restoring proper alignment, the Thompson Drop Technique can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance function.
  • Customizable for Various Conditions: Whether you’re dealing with back pain, neck pain, headaches, or sciatica, this technique can be adapted to address many different issues.

What to Expect During a Thompson Drop Technique Adjustment

If it’s your first time experiencing the Thompson Drop Technique, here’s what to expect:

  1. Assessment: Your visit will start with assessing your spine and areas of discomfort. This helps determine which areas need to be adjusted.
  2. Positioning: You’ll lie on a specialized drop table, which is designed to support your body while providing precise drops where needed.
  3. Adjustment: A quick thrust will be given to the restricted joints, and you’ll feel the table segment drop slightly. The drop helps align the vertebrae or joints with minimal force applied directly to your body.

Is the Thompson Drop Technique Right for You?

If you’ve been hesitant to try chiropractic care because of concerns about forceful adjustments, or if you have specific conditions that require a gentler approach, the Thompson Drop Technique could be an excellent choice for you. It’s designed to offer a comfortable, safe, and effective way to address spinal misalignments and improve your function. If you’re ready to experience the benefits of the Thompson Drop Technique or simply want to learn more about how it can help you, contact us today to schedule your appointment!

The Average Number of Chiropractic Treatments for Low Back Pain

Low back pain is a common issue affecting millions of people worldwide. Chiropractic care is a popular and effective treatment option for many suffering from this condition. One common question most people have is, “How long will it take?” In this blog post, we’ll explore an average initial treatment frequency and what factors influence this number.

The Average Initial Treatment Frequency

The number of chiropractic treatments needed for low back pain varies from person to person, depending on several factors such as the severity of the pain, the underlying cause, the patient’s overall health, and how well they respond to treatment. On average, most patients experience improvement within 6 to 12 visits. Some may require fewer visits, while others with more chronic or severe conditions might need a more extended treatment plan. Published clinical practice guidelines of chiropractic care for low back pain are listed below:

Research shows that more frequent treatments lead to faster reductions in pain and disability. Patients with chronic low back pain were randomly assigned to receive 1, 2, 3 or 4 chiropractic adjustments per week for 3 weeks. Relief was substantial for patients receiving 3 to 4 adjustments per week for 3 weeks.

See this previous blog for average tissue healing time http://flynndc.com/blog/index.php/2024/06/12/average-healing-time/

Factors That May Influence the Number of Treatments Needed:

  1. Duration of Pain:
  • Acute: Less than 6 weeks
  • Subacute: 6-12 weeks
  • Chronic: More than 12 weeks
  • Recurrent: frequent flare-ups
  • Acute low back pain, often resulting from a recent injury, typically responds faster to chiropractic care. In such cases, patients might see improvement within a few visits.
  • Chronic low back pain, which persists for months or even years, may require more intensive and prolonged treatment to achieve lasting relief.

2. Underlying Causes:

  • Conditions such as pinched nerves, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease can complicate the treatment process, potentially requiring more sessions for effective management.
  • Simple muscle strains or sprains usually heal faster, needing fewer visits.

3. One’s Overall Health:

  • Patients with good overall health and fitness levels often recover more quickly compared to those with poor health or additional health conditions that may slow down the healing process.
  • Lifestyle factors, such as maintaining a healthy diet, staying active, and managing stress, also play a significant role in recovery.

4. Response To Treatment

  • Individual responses to chiropractic care can vary. Some patients may experience immediate relief, while others may notice gradual improvement over several sessions.

Checking Progress and Ongoing Care:

  • Reevaluation: After your initial treatment, you will be reevaluated to see how much you’ve improved.
  • Continued Treatment: If you still have some issues but are getting better, additional visits might be recommended. The goal is to reduce the need for frequent visits by having you be more active with at-home exercises and self-care.
  • Release from treatment: If you have fully recovered or your chronic condition has stabilized you will be released from active care to return as needed or to continue with wellness care if desired.
  • Wellness Care: Some patients choose ongoing care to help prevent pain from returning and to stay active.

Chiropractic care is a valuable option for managing low back pain, offering relief and improved quality of life for many patients. While the average number of treatments varies, understanding the factors influencing your treatment plan can help set realistic expectations and ensure a successful recovery. Contact Flynn Chiropractic to determine the best approach for your specific needs.

1. Clinical practice guideline: chiropractic care for low back pain. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2016;39(1):1–22

2. Dose-response for chiropractic care of chronic low back pain. Spine J. Sep-Oct 2004;4(5):574-83. doi:10.1016/j.spinee.2004.02.008.

Average Healing Time


How long will it take to get better? Everyone wants quick relief from pain, and it can be frustrating when recovery doesn’t progress as quickly as expected. However, it’s important to remember that the healing timeline for musculoskeletal structures generally ranges from weeks to months.

Here’s a summary of the average healing times for various injuries:

  • Joint: 2 weeks to 3 months
  • Muscle Strain:
    • Grade I: 1-4 weeks
    • Grade II: 3-12 weeks
    • Grade III: 1-6 months
  • Ligament Sprain:
    • Grade I: 2-8 weeks
    • Grade II: 2-6 months
    • Grade III: 6-12 months
  • Tendon:
    • Acute Tendonitis: 3-7 weeks
    • Chronic Tendonosis: 3-6 months
  • Herniated Disc: 3-6 months
  • Nerve Injury: Weeks to months
  • Repetitive/Overuse Injury: 6 weeks to 6 months

Individual healing times can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the injury, overall health, job or home activities that impact healing, and adherence to treatment plans. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate assessment and treatment plan for your specific injuries. If you need help with dealing with your aches, pains, or injuries give us a call or schedule an appointment today at https://flynnchiropractic.janeapp.com/

Structures Involved in Low Back Pain

In cases of low back pain, various structures within the spine and surrounding area can contribute to pain generation. Here’s a list of common pain-generating structures:

  1. Vertebral Joints: The facet joints, located at the back of the spine, can become irritated or inflamed from osteoarthritis or injury, leading to localized pain and stiffness in the lower back.
  2. Disc: Injury or degeneration of discs, can cause symptoms ranging from localized low back pain to radiation down the leg due to nerve compression or inflammation.
  3. Nerve: Irritation or pinching (compression) of spinal nerves, such as the sciatic nerve, can result in burning, sharp, shooting pain or numbness and tingling that radiates from the lower back down into the buttocks and legs. Degenerated or herniated discs and spinal stenosis can cause pinched nerves.
  4. Muscle: Strain or overuse injuries of the muscles in the lower back, can occur due to improper lifting, repetitive motions, or poor posture.
  5. Ligament: Ligaments are fibrous tissues that connect bones to other bones, providing stability to the spine. Sprains or tears in the ligaments of the lower back, typically caused by sudden twisting or bending motions, can result in pain and instability.
  6. Tendon: Tendons connect muscles to bones and play a role in movement and stability. Injuries or inflammation of the tendons in the lower back can cause pain with movement and activities.
  7. Fascia: Fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles, nerves, and organs, providing support and protection. Irritation or dysfunction of the fascia in the lower back can lead to discomfort and pain.

Understanding which structures may be contributing to low back pain is essential for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment strategies. A comprehensive assessment like those performed at Flynn Chiropractic can help to identify the underlying causes and develop an effective plan for pain management and rehabilitation.

Do You Know How Long it Takes to Become a Chiropractor?

-The average chiropractic degree program takes 3.3 years or longer to complete and contains an average of 4,620 educational hours. 


-Combined with 3-4 years of undergraduate prerequisites work before chiropractic college, becoming a chiropractor requires 7-8 years of school.


To become a chiropractor individuals must undergo a rigorous and specialized education that encompasses a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology, and chiropractic techniques.

Educational Prerequisites:
Before beginning their chiropractic education, students must obtain 90 credit hours, many in relevant fields, such as biology, chemistry, kinesiology, or a related science. Most receive a bachelor’s degree before entering chiropractic college. This undergraduate education lays the foundation for the specialized knowledge and skills required in chiropractic college.

Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) Program:
The average chiropractic degree program takes 3.3 years or longer to complete and contains an average of 4,620 educational hours. These programs are taught at accredited chiropractic colleges, where students delve deep into the science and art of chiropractic care.
-Classroom Education:
The first part of the DC program focuses on foundational sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, and microbiology. Students acquire a comprehensive understanding of the human body’s structure and function, gaining the knowledge necessary for diagnosing and treating various musculoskeletal conditions. The classes at the start of a chiropractic degree are very similar to what students in medical school are learning at the start of their degrees.
-Clinical Education:
The latter half of the DC program emphasizes chiropractic techniques and clinical education, allowing students to apply their knowledge in an actual clinic. Students are trained in methods such as spinal adjustments, mobilization, and soft tissue therapies. Clinical internships and externships provide hands-on experience working with patients under the supervision of experienced chiropractors. This phase is crucial for honing diagnostic skills, developing treatment plans, and gaining proficiency in chiropractic techniques. 
 
National Boards:
Upon completion of the DC program, graduates must obtain a license to practice chiropractic. A multi-part board exam given by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners must be passed in order to apply for a state license. The exam parts are as follows: 
Part I -basic sciences
Part II -clinical sciences
Part III -clinical competency
Part IV -practical skills
PHT -physiotherapy

Continuing Education:
Chiropractic education doesn’t end with obtaining a license. All licensed healthcare professional must complete regular continuing education hours to renew their license. Chiropractors are committed to lifelong learning to stay current on the latest advancements in healthcare and refine their skills.


 
It took me 8 years after high school to become a chiropractor. I received a bachelors degree in biology before going to Palmer College of Chiropractic. Although the average chiropractic program is 4,620 hours, with the additional electives I took, I had 4,845 educational hours while in chiropractic college. 

The following is a list of classes I took at Palmer College of Chiropractic (2004-2008):

-Neuroanatomy I
-Gross Anatomy I
-Embryology
-Spinal Anatomy I
-Rights and Responsibilities
-Biochemistry I
-Fundamentals of Neurophysiology
-Philosophy I
-Gross Anatomy II
-Spinal Anatomy II
-Information Literacy
-Biochemistry II
-Cellular Physiology
-Neurophysiology
-Endocrinology
-Philosophy II
-Organ Histology
-Neuroanatomy II
-Fundamentals of Pathology
-Immunology and Communication Disease
-Microbiology
-Cardiovascular Pulmonary Physiology
-Advanced Neurophysiology
-Palpation
-Systems Pathology
-Public Health
-Digestion/Nutrition
-Renal Physiology
-Philosophy III
-Radiology I
-Toggle Recoil Adjustment
-Instrumentation
-Neuromuscular System Diagnosis I
-Physical Diagnosis
-Toxicology
-Radiology II
-Cervical Spine Adjustment Technique
-Biomechanics
-Intro to Clinical Practice
-Neuromuscular System Diagnosis II
-Obstetrics/Pediatrics
-Philosophy IV
-Physiotherapy I
-Physiotherapy II
-Radiology III
-Logan Basics Adjustment
-Thoracolumbar Adjustment Technique
-Pelvic Adjustment Technique
-Chiropractic Practice
-Clinical Methods
-Emergency Procedures
-Visceral Disorders and Laboratory Interpretation
-Clinical Psychology
-Radiology IV
-Thompson Adjustment Technique
-Technique Principles & Practice
-Extremity Adjustment Technique
-Financial Management
-Special Topics
-Legal Issues
-Clinic I
-Clinical Case Correlations I
-Gender Disorders
-Philosophy V
-Lumbar Distraction Adjustment Technique
-Activator Adjustment Technique
-Practice Management
-Regulatory Issues
-Clinic II
-Clinical Case Correlations II
-Geriatrics
-Philosophy VI
-Evidence Based Chiropractic
-Practice Success
-Clinic III
-Clinical Case Correlations III

Gift-Wrapping Tips to Avoid Low Back Pain

‘Tis the season of giving, and as we wrap presents for loved ones, it’s essential to prioritize our well-being. Gift-wrapping might seem like a harmless holiday activity, but poor posture and repetitive motions can lead to discomfort and pain. Read on for tips on how to make wrapping less of a pain in the back.

Find an Optimal Work Surface:

Wrapping everything sitting hunched over on the floor will strain your lower back. When possible use a table or counter top. Consider sitting for tasks that allow it. You can use a lumbar roll or a small pillow to support the natural curve of your lower back while sitting.  

Maintain a Neutral Spine:

Not all gifts are can be wrapped seated due to there size and shape. When you have to stand use good posture. Having a wrapping surface that is between chest to waist height will help you avoid bending your lower back. When you must bend:

  • Keep your back straight, and avoid hunching or arching your spine.
  • Engage your core muscles to support your lower back when you have to bend over.
  • Remember to bend at the hips and knees when picking up wrapping supplies to reduce strain on your back.. 

Keep it Close:

  • Have what you are working on directly in front of you.
  • Keep the gifts and wrapping items as close to you as possible to avoid reaching and leaning.

Take Breaks:

  • Don’t forget to take short breaks to stand up, stretch, and walk around.
  • Holding any position too long can lead to back or neck strain.

Listen to Your Body:

  • If you experience discomfort or pain, pay attention to your body’s signals and take a break.
  • If pain persists, Flynn Chiropractic is here to help.

As you wrap presents this holiday season, remember your own well-being. By implementing these postural tips, you can wrap presents with ease and enjoy the festive season pain-free. Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season!

How to Safely Rake The Yard This Fall 

Fall is cherished for its vibrant foliage, cool breezes, and the satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot. It’s also the time when we embark on the annual tradition of raking leaves. Here’s how to rake without getting hurt.

1. Warm-Up and Stretch:

Before you grab your rake, take a few minutes to warm up your muscles and stretch. Focus on your arms, back, shoulders, and legs.

2. Choose the Right Rake:

Selecting the appropriate rake can make a world of difference. Look for a rake with a lightweight handle and tines that aren’t too rigid. Choose a rake with a head or raking surface that is not too big or too small. Most medium-sized rakes will be fine for most people. A leaf rake with a large fan-shaped head can make the job go quicker but it also creates more resistance and weight to pull.

3. Maintain Proper Posture:

One of the most common causes of raking-related injuries is poor posture. Keep the rake close to your body when using it. Have one hand at the top of the rake and the other near the middle. Pull the leaves towards you and avoid reaching too far out in front of you. Maintain an upright position as you rake, keep your back straight- avoid bending over at the waist. Place one foot forward so you are standing in a scissored stance. Keep your knees slightly bent. Avoid twisting your spine while raking. Instead, pivot your whole body to change direction.

4. Use a Proper Lifting Technique:

When lifting the pile of leaves, keep your back straight and bend at the hips and knees. Lift with your legs, not your back.

5. Pace Yourself:

Raking leaves can be a more strenuous activity than it appears. Take regular breaks to rest if you have a large yard. Overexerting yourself can lead to muscle strain and fatigue. Continuing to rake while in pain can lead to injury. If pain persists, consult a healthcare professional.

6. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings:

Look out for tripping hazards such as holes in your yard, retaining walls, other yard working tools, or obstacles in your work area.

7. Wear the Right Gear:

Wear sturdy shoes with a good grip to prevent slipping, and consider gloves to protect your hands.

8. Consider Alternatives:

If you have a large yard or a history of back problems, it might be worth considering alternatives to traditional raking, such as a leaf blower or a lawn vacuum. These tools can make the job easier and reduce the physical strain on your body.

If you experience back pain or discomfort while raking leaves, remember that Flynn Chiropractic is here to help. Flynn Chiropractic has experience assessing and treating musculoskeletal issues, including back pain. Whether it’s a minor ache or something more serious, you can get personalized care to help you recover and get back to enjoying the season pain-free. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance – we’re dedicated to your well-being. Happy raking!

Low Back Sprain and Strain: Causes, Symptoms, and Chiropractic Solutions

Low back or lumbar sprains and strains are common musculoskeletal injuries. Pain can range from mild to significant and may restrict your daily activities. In this blog, we’ll dive into what lumbar sprains and strains are, their causes, and symptoms, and how chiropractic care can help you find relief.

What Is the Difference Between a Lumbar Sprain and a Strain?

  1. Lumbar Sprain: Ligaments are strong, fibrous tissues that connect bone to bone, providing stability to your spine. Sprains often result from sudden or forceful movements that exceed the ligament’s normal range of motion and cause damage. A lumbar sprain occurs when the ligaments in your lower back stretch or tear.
  2. Lumbar Strain: Lumbar strains involve the over-stretching or tearing of muscles and tendons in the lower back. Muscles and tendons are responsible for facilitating movement of the spine.

Common Causes of Lumbar Sprain and Strain:

  1. Injuries: Car accidents, falls, slips, etc., can cause a sudden over-stretching of the ligaments, muscles, or tendons of the spine.
  2. Sudden Movements: Abrupt twisting or lifting of heavy objects can strain or sprain the lower back muscles and ligaments.
  3. Repetitive Activities: Activities that involve repetitive motions, such as heavy lifting, frequent bending, or sports can increase the risk of lumbar injuries over time.
  4. Poor Posture: Prolonged sitting or standing with poor posture can lead to overuse injuries, especially if your lower back is not adequately supported.
  5. Weak Core Muscles: A weak core can lead to instability in the lower back, making it more susceptible to injuries when lifting or bending.

Symptoms of Lumbar Sprain and Strain:

  1. Pain: The most common symptom is localized lower back pain, which can range from mild to severe.
  2. Muscle Spasms: You may experience muscle spasms in the lower back, which will worsen the pain.
  3. Limited Range of Motion: Reduced mobility and stiffness in the lower back.

Chiropractic Care for Lumbar Sprain and Strain:

Chiropractors can treat many musculoskeletal conditions, including lumbar sprains and strains. Here’s how chiropractic care can help:

  1. Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractic adjustments can restore proper alignment and range of motion to the spine, reducing pressure on the injured area and promoting healing.
  2. Soft Tissue Therapy: Chiropractors can use techniques like myofascial release to alleviate muscle tension and reduce pain.
  3. Strengthening Exercises: Chiropractors may recommend specific exercises to strengthen the spine and core and improve stability, reducing the risk of future injuries.
  4. Posture and Ergonomics: Chiropractors can provide guidance on maintaining proper posture and ergonomic practices to prevent further strain on the lower back.

Lumbar sprains and strains can be painful and limit your daily activities. Chiropractic care offers an approach to helping your body recover naturally. If you’re experiencing lower back pain or suspect a lumbar sprain or strain, consult Flynn Chiropractic for a personalized treatment plan that can lead you on the path to recovery.

Does The Pop During A Chiropractic Adjustment Matter?

There are many different types of chiropractic adjustment styles. Examples include manual hands-on, flexion-distraction, drop tables, and instrument-assisted. While some adjustments produce an audible “pop” or “crack,” others do not.

Have you ever wondered about the significance of the “popping” sound that often accompanies chiropractic adjustments? Several research studies have explored the distinction between adjustments that produce a cracking sound and those that don’t. The findings reveal that the popping sound itself holds no bearing on the outcomes of the adjustment. Whether an adjustment produces a pop or not, there is no difference in terms of immediate, short-term, or long-term pain relief. Furthermore, improvements in disability and range of motion were found to be consistent across different types of adjustments. The table below summarizes the research studies.

Research Shows No Significant Difference Between Adjustments That Produce a Pop and Those That Don’t.

Different forms of adjusting did not lead to different outcomes in older low back pain patients. 1
No differences in pain or disability between groups were found for thrust manipulation versus non-thrust.2
There is no relationship between the number of audible pops during thoracic spine thrust manipulation and improvements in pain, disability, or range of motion. Additionally, a greater number of audible pops experienced was not associated with a dramatic improvement. 3
A perceived audible pop may not relate to improved outcomes for patients with low back pain at either an immediate or longer-term follow-up. 4
There is no relationship between an audible pop and improvement in range of motion, pain, or disability in individuals with low back pain. Additionally, the occurrence of a pop did not improve the odds of a dramatic improvement. 5
Currently there is little scientific evidence to support any therapeutic benefit derived from the audible pop and in fact, it appears the available evidence tends to refute many of the alleged beneficial effects. 6

It’s worth noting that the characteristic “popping” sound isn’t the result of joints snapping back into place. Rather, the sound originates from the rapid release of healthy gases within the joint during certain types of manual hands-on adjustments. However, there are chiropractic techniques designed to restore joint motion without generating a popping sound. Examples include flexion-distraction, drop tables, and instrument-assisted approaches. I have always used low-force adjustments because they are easy on me and the patient.

Exploring the Benefits of Low-Force Adjustments


1. Gentleness and Reduced Pain: One of the key advantages of low-force adjustments is their gentle nature, often resulting in less discomfort compared to more forceful techniques. The reduced intensity makes them a viable option for individuals who might be hesitant to undergo traditional manual adjustments.

2. Tolerated Well By All Ages: Some people can not tolerate the force used in manual adjustments. As we age the spine becomes arthritic which can make cracking style adjustments uncomfortable.

3. Precision and Consistency: Instruments used in low-force adjustments offer a consistent thrust and speed with each application. In contrast, chiropractors performing manual adjustments may experience fatigue throughout the day, affecting the precision of their adjustments. Low-force methods help maintain uniformity and accuracy.

4. Enhanced Patient Relaxation: Some individuals find it challenging to relax during the cracking style neck adjustments that involve twisting of their head. Low-force techniques, such as flexion-distraction, drop tables, and instruments, eliminate this concern. Most of these methods do not require neck twisting, promoting a more relaxed and comfortable experience for patients.

The world of chiropractic adjustments encompasses diverse styles, yet all aim to restore proper joint function and reduce pain and disability. The audible popping sound during adjustments is not an indicator of success, as studies show that both popping and non-popping adjustments yield similar outcomes. Low-force techniques, on the other hand, present a range of benefits including reduced pain, suitability for various patients, and enhanced precision.

  • 1. A randomized controlled trial comparing 2 types of spinal manipulation and minimal conservative medical care for adults 55 years and older with subacute or chronic low back pain. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2009 Jun;32(5):330-43. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2009.04.012.
  • 2. No Differences in Outcomes in People with Low Back Pain Who Met the Clinical Prediction Rule for Lumbar Spine Manipulation When a Pragmatic Non-thrust Manipulation Was Used as the Comparator. Physiother Can. 2014 Fall;66(4):359-66. doi: 10.3138/ptc.2013-49.
  • 3. The audible pop from thoracic spine thrust manipulation and its relation to short-term outcomes in patients with neck pain. J Man Manip Ther. 2007;15(3):143-54.
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  • 7. Chiroup