Friday, August 27, 2010

How to Manipulate the Neck for Chiropractic Care

How to Manipulate the Neck for Chiropractic Care



Neck manipulation is one of the safest treatments for neck pain. Although there have been a few documented cases of patients having strokes following cervical (neck) manipulation, statistics indicate that the incidence of stroke following manipulation is only 1 case out of every 8 million patients. The odds are much better of getting struck by lightning.







Things You'll Need:





Appointment with your chiropractor







Manipulate the Neck for Chiropractic Care




1


Make an appointment to see your chiropractor. Take your medical history, list of prior hospitalizations and surgeries and a list of current medications.





2


Know that once organic reasons for your neck pain have been ruled out, your chiropractor will most likely choose to manipulate your neck in order to relieve your pain.





3


Ask your chiropractor if you need x-rays to determine a base line view of your neck and upper spinal region at the height of your pain. Then inquire if future x-rays will be necessary after your neck manipulations have begun.





4


Expect to sit or lie on an adjusting table with your chiropractor standing behind you.





5


Know that your chiropractor will examine your neck joints, one by one, through a series of gentle motions. He or she will check to see if any of the joints have become locked or fixated by taking each joint through its 5 ranges of motion.





6


Understand that if there is a lack of spinal joint motion, your D.C. will tell you that you have a subluxation. This will require your chiropractor to manipulate your neck. Expect to hear a cracking or popping sound as your chiropractor manipulates your neck.





7


Realize that it may take a number of sessions for your neck pain to dissipate.





8


Learn more about chiropractic care by visiting the American Chiropractors Association Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










There are fewer adverse effects reported from neck manipulations than from the common pain meds and/or anti-inflammatory drugs usually prescribed for cervical pain.








If you experience more pain once your treatments begin, contact your medical doctor at once. Also be aware of any sudden changes in your general health. Report chest pains, shortness of breath or extreme vomiting to your medical doctor or the nearest emergency room.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners are licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider and keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033173_manipulate-neck-chiropractic.html

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