Bethesda Chiropractic - Chiropractic Adjustment

When the 24 bones (vertebra) that protect the spinal cord lose their normal position (subluxations) or motion, delicate tissue surrounding the nerve becomes irritated or pinched. If a thorough examination reveals malfunctioning areas of the spine, Chiropractic manipulations are recommended to help correct this condition. Adjustments are the only form of treatment that can correct this problem. Pain and stiffness are just some of the symptoms caused by subluxations. Pain medication and muscle relaxers only cover up the symptoms and do nothing to correct the underlying problem, the subluxation.

Chiropractic adjustments are used to help restore the proper position or motion of the spinal bones giving mobility and strength, while relieving pain and stiffness. The doctor uses his hands, applying a quick thrust or sometimes a low constant pressure to restore the proper position of these bones. Sometimes, the doctor uses an instrument to deliver a precise measurable force to the spine or uses a special adjusting table. Whatever the case, the adjustment given is usually gentle and painless.

(see our nerve chart for further information)

Our bodies are made up of billions of living cells that are organized into tissues, organs, and systems. They work together in a synchronized, harmonious way to create a living being, the human body. The brain controls the synchronization and communicates to the body via the nervous system. A subluxation is a misalignment of one or more vertebra of the spinal column, can cause alteration in the nerve functions and interferes with the transmission of the impulses resulting in a decreased signal from the brain to a cell, tissue, organ, or system. In simple terms, the inability of the innate to express its maximum health potential.

This complex can include all or any combination of the following possibilities:

1. The osseous component: There is abnormal motion and/or position of the spinal vertebra. The vertebra are either less mobile (hypo-mobile) then they should be, or too mobile (hyper-mobile). Vertebra that are hypo-mobile are often referred to as fixed or jammed. The vertebra that are hyper-mobile or often referred to as loose or unstable. Either way, there is an abnormal function and a decreased range of motion.

2. Connective tissue component: muscles, ligaments, tendons and/or fascia in the area are adversely affected and their normal function is altered. The muscles may have spasms or too weak to perform normal movement of the human skeleton.

3. Disc component: the cushion between the vertebra, called a disc, may be affected by abnormal position or motion of the vertebra.

4. Neurological component: a subluxation can cause irritation of the associated nerve and/or cause interference with their normal function.

5. Altered biomechanical: when a subluxation causes the bones, connective tissue, disc, and nerve function, and only in one or more areas of the spine, the spinal column cannot perform its normal function. This abnormal function can lead to the spinal curvature being decreased, resulting in an unbalanced condition of the spine. This can lead to further additional abnormal functions of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, systems and/or organs, which can lead to more subluxations.

Chiropractic is safe and it works. Chiropractic physicians have a safety record that allows them to enjoy the lowest malpractice insurance rates of all the medical professions.

Dr. James Hook, D.C., 7801 Norfolk Ave Suite 100, Bethesda, Maryland 20814 Tel: (301) 652 0500 E-mail Dr. Hook

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