The Tribune

By THE BAHAMAS ASSOCIATION OF CHIROPRACTIC

THE expert panel at Doctors of Chiropractic are there to answer questions and here is a selection of those frequently asked.

What causes the sound of an adjustment?

Actually, not all adjusting techniques produce the sound associated with “popping knuckles”. Some create no sound at all, some a little. Many techniques, however, do create the sound of spinal “release.”

What causes it?

The sound is simply gas rushing in to fill the partial vacuum created when the joints are slightly separated to create normal joint motion. However, the important part of any adjustment is the fact that we created a rehabilitative motion within the joint.

Is It bad to “crack” your neck or back a lot?

The desire to pop the neck or back is caused by tension from a jammed or subluxated vertebra, which causes another part of the spine to compensate by moving too much and “popping” a lot. The subluxated part should be adjusted by a chiropractor so that the rest of the spinal column will balance and stop being so dysfunctional.

So I’m not “ddjusting” myself?

Cracking or popping your neck gives relief for a while, but soon the urge to pop or crack reappears because the cause of the spinal tension has not been corrected. There is a massive difference from what a Doctor of Chiropractic is doing in comparison.

At what age should chiropractic begin?

Spinal dysfunction can begin early in life, even from the birthing process itself. There are case histories of infants close to death who were adjusted in hospitals with seemingly miraculous recoveries. Stresses and forces are placed on the spine all throughout life, so it is only common sense that spines need to be checked at any age. It is never too late to change spinal dysfunction.

Can I tell if I have a subluxation without consulting a chiropractor?

Not always. A subluxation is like a dental cavity; you may have it for a long time before symptoms appear. That is why periodic spinal checkups are so important. Although it may be possible to know you have a subluxation, it is rarely possible to be sure you don’t.

Is Chiropractic safe?

Chiropractic is amongst the safest of all health care. As proof, one merely has to compare malpractice rates between chiropractors and other health professionals. Chiropractors’ malpractice premiums are a small fraction of those for medical doctors, and are even considered less of a risk than optometrists. Chiropractors are rated the safest of all health care professions.

Can I go to a chiropractor if I’m under medical care?

Yes. Having your subluxations corrected is important, no matter what other type of health care you are receiving. Today many DCs and MDs are working together in clinics and on joint research projects. MDs are likely to have patients who are under chiropractic care; in fact, many medical doctors and pharmacists see a Doctor of Chiropractic themselves.

I’m not sick. Should I see a chiropractor?

Yes. Symptoms are not a good way to judge health. They sometimes surface after years of body malfunction.

• If you have any health questions you would like answered, email drkellykramp@gmail.com and the experts will help.