The philosophy behind chiropractic adjustments is that the body, when properly aligned in both spinal and extremities, has the capability of healing itself. Some 22 million Americans agree with this philosophy, as studies show that that is the number of people seeking relief from pain, or as a preventive measure, via chiropractic adjustment. Over the years, chiropractors have had to earn their way into the mainstream of accepted medical care. The practice has come a long way in that regard. Many insurance carriers now recognize chiropractic adjustments as valuable and cover chiropractic treatments.

Considered safe and effective, chiropractor adjustments are beneficial for the treatment of acute back and lower back pain resulting from a sudden injury or trauma, such as moving heavy objects or taking a bad fall. Sitting improperly or repetitive movement can also cause minor trauma to joints, which can limit movement and cause discomfort. Acute back pain is far more common than chronic pain. With proper chiropractic treatment, those suffering from acute pain in the back, neck or joints, find relief generally after the first few visits. Full recovery can take up to six treatments or more depending on the severity of the injury.

Chiropractors perform spinal manipulation by manually applying a gentle, yet specific deep thrust technique known as the Diversified Technique. It is very rare for a joint to go completely out of place, so the idea that a chiropractor is putting joints "back in place" is a myth. What these practitioners actually do is realign the joint within its cavital structure, stretching the tissue that has formed around the misaligned joint. When that tissue is softly stretched via manipulation, it creates a "popping" sound known as osseous, when the bubbles of gas in the bodily fluids are released.This is similar to the sound one makes when "cracking" their knuckles.

This deep thrust technique to restore the proper placement of rigid vertebral and other joints helps to restore mobility. It also helps restore the proper biomedical functioning of the musculoskeletal system. This can ease symptoms of joint pain, frequent headaches and other problems that stem from minor trauma to the spine or joints. Diversified Technique is used often in combination with massage, ultrasound (for deep-heat tissue stimulation), and acupuncture.

In chiropractic care the use of controlled, sudden force improves range and quality of motion in the joints. Many chiropractors also believe in a holistic approach to healing, incorporating nutrition and exercise to aid in rehabilitation or prevention. Research shows chiropractic care to be beneficial in the treatment of neck pain, frequent headaches and of course back pain. Chiropractic adjustments are also excellent for the prevention of and treatment for sports injuries in the back or joints. Injuries such as ankle sprain, have been known to heal faster with proper chiropractic care of the joint.

While chiropractors do not attend medical school, and cannot prescribe medicine or perform surgery, they do complete undergraduate pre-med degrees and additional training in chiropractic adjustments. They must also pass national board certification before they can practice.

Dr. Steven Schram provides chiropractic and acupuncture care in NYC. Dr. Schram offers treatments that relieve back pain, lower back pain, neck pain and migraines.