What Is a Spinal Adjustment?
A spinal adjustment (manipulation) is the core chiropractic technique.
What to expect
A controlled, quick force applied to a joint, sometimes producing an audible release. It should not be sharply painful.
What the evidence says
Manipulation is well studied for mechanical back and neck pain. For low-back and most spinal regions, serious adverse events are rare and mild soreness afterward is common. For high-velocity neck manipulation specifically, there is a rare, debated association with arterial dissection — see our neck-pain and safety guides.
Educational summary, not medical advice. Evidence evolves — discuss options with a licensed provider.
When to see a physician
Tell your chiropractor about osteoporosis, blood-thinning medication, prior spinal surgery, or a history of stroke or arterial problems, which may change or rule out certain techniques.