Every Spine is Different

We’re all created equal… unless we’re talking about the condition of our spines. In that respect, each of us is different. But would you believe that some chiropractors adjust every patient the same exact way? It’s true! Young patients in fairly good health get the exact same care as patients who are in their 70’s with severely degenerated spines. Scary, huh?

Here’s how I’ve seen it happen… The process begins with the patient resting face down on the adjusting table. The doctor performs a cursory examination that might include feeling around for tight/sore muscles and stiff joint movement, or possibly comparing the length of your legs. Then they’ll manipulate the mid back, followed by two more upper back thrusts. Then the patient is instructed to turn on one side, then the other, to receive two lumbar rolls. From here, they lie on their back so that the chiropractor can twist their head to the left and right in an effort to elicit the beloved cracking sound they seek.

Over the years, this “process” has been irreverently dubbed the flying seven. Some offices actually recommend for all patients to come in and do this every week forever… Can you imagine going to a dentist who pulled every patient’s molar that day? How about a surgeon who removed every patient’s gallbladder?

I’m not suggesting that this treatment is ineffective or harmful; you may actually receive tremendous benefit from it. I’m simply letting you know that it’s okay to question the logic of giving/receiving the same treatment to every patient who walks through the door.

This is why it’s important to find a chiropractor who properly examines your spine and determines how to precisely adjust you for optimum results. X-rays, thermography scans, and an assortment of other tests can help determine whether or not chiropractic is right for you, and if so, the appropriate course of care. Ideally, you want recommendations tailored around your specific needs.

If you find yourself in an adjustment factory, stay if you like, but please realize that the developers of the chiropractic profession never intended it to be used in that manner. Every spine is different and there is a specific adjustment that’s right for you.