Chiropractic Adjustment in Garner, North Carolina
Dr. Seay provides expert chiropractic adjustments as part of our comprehensive M4 approach to health and performance. Our advanced spinal manipulation techniques help restore proper joint function, reduce pain, and improve your overall mobility.
How the chiropractic adjustment works
The chiropractic adjustment operates through well-established neurological mechanisms, particularly involving mechanoreception and the gate control theory of pain.
​
The Gate Control Mechanism
When you hit your finger with a hammer while hitting a nail and instinctively shake your hand, you're activating large-diameter mechanoreceptor fibers (A-beta fibers) in the wrist and hand joints. These mechanoreceptors detect joint movement, pressure, and position; collectively known as proprioception and mechanoreception.
At the spinal cord level, specifically in the dorsal horn's substantia gelatinosa (laminae I-III, with lamina II being particularly important), these mechanoreceptor signals create what's called "gating." The large mechanoreceptor fibers activate inhibitory interneurons that effectively "close the gate" on smaller pain-carrying C-fibers and A-delta fibers trying to transmit nociceptive (pain) signals to the brain.
This is why the rhythmic shaking motion provides immediate pain relief. The mechanical stimulation overwhelms the pain signals before they can reach higher brain centers for processing. This helps to reduce the pain you are feeling.
​
Chiropractic Adjustment and Neurological Input
The chiropractic adjustment works through the same neurological pathway. When a chiropractor applies a high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust to a spinal joint, this creates:
-
Intense mechanoreceptor activation in the facet joints, ligaments, and surrounding tissues
-
Proprioceptive input from joint capsules and mechanoreceptors
-
Spinal cord-level inhibition of pain signals through the same gate control mechanism
The adjustment essentially floods the nervous system with mechanoreceptor input, which inhibits pain transmission and can reset abnormal neurological firing patterns.
​
Additional Neurological Benefits
Beyond pain reduction, the mechanoreceptor activation from adjustments also:
-
Improves proprioceptive awareness and joint position sense
-
Influences muscle spindle activity and motor control
-
Affects central nervous system processing of sensory information
-
May influence autonomic nervous system function through spinal cord connections
The scientific basis rests on the fundamental principle that mechanical stimulation of joints and tissues creates neurological input that can override pain signals and improve nervous system function - the same reason we instinctively rub or shake an injury for relief.
​
Conditions We Treat with Chiropractic Care
What to Expect During Your Adjustment
The chiropractic adjustment process begins with a thorough assessment of your spine and affected areas. Your chiropractor will position you comfortably, often on a specialized adjusting table, and explain what they're going to do before proceeding. The actual adjustment involves a quick, precise thrust applied to specific spinal joints or areas of restriction. You may hear a "popping" or "cracking" sound, which is simply gas bubbles being released from the joint fluid - similar to cracking your knuckles. This sound is normal and not indicative of bones breaking or damage occurring.
​
Modern chiropractic care prioritizes both safety and comfort. Chiropractors undergo extensive training to perform adjustments safely, and serious complications are extremely rare when performed by licensed professionals. The adjustment itself typically lasts only a few seconds per area treated, and most patients find the process more comfortable than anticipated. Many people experience immediate relief and improved mobility following an adjustment. Your chiropractor will use appropriate force for your age, condition, and comfort level, and will always work within your tolerance.
​
Communication is key to a comfortable experience. Don't hesitate to express any concerns or discomfort to your chiropractor before, during, or after treatment. They can modify techniques, use gentler approaches, or employ alternative methods if needed. Most patients find adjustments relaxing once they understand the process, and many report feeling significantly better immediately afterward, though some may experience mild soreness similar to what you might feel after exercise, which typically resolves within 24-48 hours.
