Chiropractic Dictionary

Adjustment: A precise, careful set of movements applied to the muscles and joints of your spine that allows your spine to return to its normal range of movement.

Biomechanical Dysfunction: A significant issues in the relationship between the forces and movements of the human body. A subluxation is a form of biomechanical dysfunction.

Cavitation: The technical term for the popping noise made during an adjustment. It’s not your bone’s “cracking,” but rather the release of a gas bubble that occurs when the pressure between two joints is relieved.

Corrective Care: A long-term, more complex approach to care necessary for treating longstanding spinal problems.

Neuromusculoskeletal: Involving or reflecting the relationship between the spine, other bones, muscles and nervous system. To chiropractors, back pain is a neuromusculoskeletal condition.

Relief Care: The immediate relief of pain and discomfort by a chiropractor. Depending on one’s diagnosis, age and physical condition,relief care may require one or several visit(s) (over a short period of time) may be necessary.

Joint Dysfunction: A shift in the position of the spine away from its proper position, which causes a loss of the spine’s normal range of motion; pressure on the surrounding joints, nerves and muscles; and back pain.

Supportive or Maintenance Care: Ongoing chiropractic treatment intended to maintain and prolong the benefits of relief and corrective care and keep the spine as healthy as possible.