Chiropractic care

Chiropractic treatment covers a wide variety of services that allow chiropractors to comprehensively assess and conservatively treat musculoskeletal issues.

A common misconception is that chiropractors will only provide spinal adjustments. While this is a significant component of our treatment for most patients, we also incorporate soft tissue work and rehab plans with our patient care.

Our focus is on providing a natural alternative focused on mobility, strength, and stability using exercise and hands-on therapy.​

The Chiropractic Adjustment

Sports chiropractor in Bellingham performing an adjustment on a face down patient to relieve back pain

A chiropractic adjustment is the art and science of using specific force in a precise direction to a joint that has restricted motion or is otherwise not properly functioning. This force will add motion to the joint, helping the bone and structures around it return to a more normal position and tension. The overall objective is to improve range of motion, reduce any nerve irritability, and improve function.

Common Conditions Treated By Chiropractic Adjustment

Research shows consistently how safe and effective chiropractic manipulation is, making it the gold standard for treating low back pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an adjustment do?

After palpating (assessing movement in) your neck, back, or extremities we will identify areas of restricted motion which we call a joint restriction. Joint restrictions can occur for any number of reasons, including injury, poor posture, muscular imbalances, or any combination of issues. Once we have identified those regions our goal is simple, restore motion to that area by delivering a quick but gentle push through that specific joint. Once we have provided the manipulation/adjustment we have re-introduced motion into a previously “stuck” joint, allowing your body to return to prime biomechanics function. This is the perfect time for us to work on other aspects of your care such as muscle tone or movement patterns as the body will be perfectly primed for movement.

What does an adjustment feel like?

Adjustments are typically pain-free and are often immediately pain-relieving, however they can be uncomfortable depending on the tension and inflammation to the area. You may experience some tenderness and tension as your body restores motion through that area, that is normal, but you will likely experience immediate relief.

Will it always “crack” or “pop”? If it doesn’t did I still receive treatment??

No! As a matter of fact the majority of benefit from a chiropractic adjustment comes from reintroducing movement into a restricted joint. The sound is not directly connected to restoring motion, and while some may find the sound satisfying it’s not essential for you to get the benefits of treatment.

I can crack my own neck, why should I come to see you?

When you “crack yourself” you’ll often notice you only get very temporary relief, because you’re just popping joints. An adjustment requires specific force, direction, and speed to improve motion in a targeted joint to restore proper biomechanical function.

I’m not comfortable getting my neck adjusted, can you still help me??

Definitely! We understand and will work with your comfort levels in everything that we do. We have a strong tool belt of methods to help reduce your pain without necessarily needing to adjust your neck.

Stiff? Stuck? Sore? Tired? All of the above? Schedule an appointment today and get back to moving and feeling like yourself again!