If your back feels stiff after sitting at a desk, your neck is uncomfortable when turning your head, or you are dealing with recurring headaches, you might be wondering what a chiropractic adjustment involves. Will there be a cracking sound? Do all chiropractors use the same technique? What happens if you would prefer a gentler approach?
At MyChiro in Bondi Junction, these are sensible questions to ask before deciding on care. Dr Steven Lockstone (Chiropractor) discusses your symptoms, examines relevant movement and explains whether chiropractic care may be appropriate. There is no one technique that suits every person.
What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a type of hands-on joint treatment. Depending on the clinical findings and your preferences, a chiropractor may suggest a controlled movement of a joint, an instrument-assisted technique, or another form of mobilisation. The aim of the consultation is to understand your concern first, not to assume that an adjustment is always required.
If you would like to understand the range of approaches used at the clinic, see our chiropractic techniques page. You can also read more about what a chiropractor does before making an appointment.
Assessment comes before choosing a technique
Two people can describe similar neck or back pain and still need different advice. A consultation should consider when symptoms started, how they affect your usual activities, your medical history and what you hope to get back to doing.
For example, someone who notices stiffness after long hours at a computer may have different needs from someone whose back pain started after lifting. The conversation may include movement, work habits, exercise and how symptoms change over the day. You can also discuss the connection between stress and muscular tension in our article on stress and back discomfort.
The findings should guide what happens next. That may mean discussing hands-on care, self-management, a different type of assessment or referral when appropriate. An examination does not automatically mean you need treatment.
Common chiropractic techniques
Manual adjustments
Manual adjustments involve a chiropractor applying a controlled movement to a particular joint. Some techniques use a short, quick movement; others use slower movements. Your chiropractor should explain the proposed approach, its possible benefits and risks, and any reasonable alternatives before asking for your consent.
A clicking or popping sound sometimes occurs during a joint movement, but the noise is not a measure of whether an appointment has been effective. If you are uncomfortable with the idea of a traditional manual adjustment, say so.
Instrument-assisted techniques
An adjusting instrument delivers a brief, controlled mechanical input to a selected area. Some people prefer this approach because it does not involve the same manual movement used in a traditional adjustment. The choice still depends on the assessment and what is appropriate for the individual.
An instrument is not automatically safer, more effective or suitable for everyone. It is simply one of the options you can discuss.
Drop-piece tables
A drop-piece chiropractic table has sections that move a small distance during a technique. This can offer another way to deliver a controlled movement. Some patients find the approach more comfortable than other techniques; others prefer not to use it.
The important question is not whether a table or instrument looks more advanced. It is whether the approach is appropriate for your presentation and acceptable to you.
Mobilisation and approaches without cracking
Mobilisation usually involves slower, repeated joint movements within a comfortable range. It may be considered when a person prefers an approach without a quick thrust or audible pop. Not every presentation requires an adjustment.
You can ask Dr Steve about instrument-assisted care, drop-piece approaches and mobilisation at your consultation. It is entirely reasonable to explain what you would rather avoid.
How do you choose an approach that suits you?
Start with three things: your symptoms, the assessment findings and your preferences. If your main concern is neck stiffness at work, tell the chiropractor which movements are difficult and what you have already tried. If your back is uncomfortable after exercise, describe the activity and any changes you have noticed.
Your comfort matters too. Some people are happy with a hands-on technique; others feel uneasy about a popping sound or prefer a lighter approach. You do not have to agree to a particular technique to receive an assessment and advice.
For an example of how people compare different care options, see our guide to chiropractic or massage for a stiff neck. It discusses practical considerations rather than assuming one option is always the right answer.
What can you realistically expect from treatment?
Experiences vary. Some people notice a change in comfort or movement, while others need a different approach or further assessment. A particular technique cannot guarantee pain relief, better sleep, improved athletic performance or a specific recovery time.
A useful review asks about changes that matter to you. Can you sit through a meeting more comfortably? Is turning your head while driving easier? Can you return to an activity you had been avoiding? Those questions are more informative than judging treatment by whether a joint made a sound.
If a proposed treatment is not helping, the plan should be reconsidered rather than continuing indefinitely by default. The number and frequency of appointments should be explained in relation to your presentation and response.
Questions worth asking before an adjustment
- What did the assessment suggest may be contributing to my symptoms?
- Why are you recommending this particular technique?
- Are there other approaches if I would prefer not to have a manual adjustment?
- What are the possible risks, temporary effects and alternatives?
- What changes should we review to decide whether the plan is worthwhile?
For more detail about discussing risks and suitability, read our guide to chiropractic treatment and safety. The aim is to help you make an informed choice without feeling pressured.
What happens at MyChiro in Bondi Junction?
Your first appointment begins with a conversation about what is bothering you, relevant health history and a clinical assessment. Dr Steven Lockstone (Chiropractor) explains what he finds, whether he thinks chiropractic care may be suitable, and the options available to you. You can ask questions before deciding whether to proceed.
For new patients, the initial consultation is free and includes assessment and advice. If hands-on treatment is clinically appropriate and you choose to have it, same-day treatment is available for $125. Treatment is separate from the free consultation, and there is no obligation to proceed.
MyChiro is in Bondi Junction, convenient for people travelling from Bondi, Bronte, Waverley and nearby suburbs, including Paddington. You can explain your concern when you book, even if you are not sure which technique you would prefer.
Frequently asked questions
Do chiropractic adjustments have to make a cracking sound?
No. A joint may make a sound during some techniques, but a sound is not required. Ask about instrument-assisted techniques, a drop-piece table or mobilisation if you prefer an option without the usual cracking sensation.
Is one chiropractic technique the best?
Not for everyone. The appropriate approach depends on the concern being assessed, the options available, your health history and your preferences. No named method is a substitute for individual assessment.
Can I say no to a proposed adjustment?
Yes. You can ask questions, request an alternative or decline a procedure. Your agreement should relate to the specific care being discussed.
How many visits will I need?
There is no fixed number that is right for everyone. An initial assessment can help frame a proposed plan, and any further care should be reviewed according to your symptoms, function and progress.
What if chiropractic care is not suitable?
An assessment may indicate that another type of care or medical assessment is more appropriate. The right next step depends on your findings; booking an appointment does not create an obligation to have treatment.
Start with a conversation, not a commitment
If you are considering chiropractic care for back pain, neck discomfort or headaches, the first step is to understand your options. Book a free initial consultation with Dr Steve at MyChiro, Bondi Junction. You will have the opportunity to discuss what is happening, the techniques available and the likely costs before making a decision.
