Chiropractic Adjustments
for Pain Relief and Wellness
Move well. Think well. Be Well.
Experience gentle, effective chiropractic care in Chillicothe, MO. At The Well-House Chiropractic, we specialize in chiropractic adjustments that relieve pain, restore alignment, and boost your overall wellness. Whether you’re suffering from back or neck pain, dealing with headaches, or simply want to improve your body’s function, our expert chiropractor (Dr. Matthew Arthaud, D.C., RN) is here to help. Chiropractic care is a safe, drug-free path to feeling better, and we tailor every adjustment to your comfort level and needs. We proudly serve patients in Chillicothe and surrounding North Missouri communities, helping our neighbors stand taller, move easier, and live with less pain.
How Chiropractic Adjustments Help You
Chiropractic adjustments are targeted gentle maneuvers to realign your spine and joints, freeing up your nervous system to function optimally. Misalignments in the spine (called subluxations) can pinch nerves or restrict movement, leading to pain and dysfunction. Through skilled adjustments—often a quick, precise pressure or a light instrument tap—Dr. Arthaud corrects these misalignments, reducing nerve pressure and muscle tension. The result? Improved mobility, better posture, and significant pain relief.
Chiropractic is widely recognized for its effectiveness. Research shows that spinal adjustments can ease lower back pain and even help with neck pain and certain headaches. In fact, over 35 million Americans receive chiropractic care each year, a testament to how many people trust this natural approach for relief. One of the greatest benefits is that it addresses the root cause of pain (joint misalignment and nervous system disruption) rather than masking symptoms with medication. Plus, adjustments trigger your body’s own healing response—releasing endorphins, improving circulation, and reducing inflammation.
Importantly, chiropractic adjustments are very safe when performed by a licensed professional like Dr. Arthaud. They are non-invasive and involve no drugs or surgery. Serious side effects are extremely rare, especially compared to many medical procedures. You might feel instant relief after an adjustment, and many patients report feeling looser and more relaxed. Some may have mild soreness (similar to how you feel after a good workout), but this is temporary. Overall, chiropractic care offers a gentle, proven path to pain reduction and improved wellness that helps your body heal itself.
Conditions We Treat with Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic adjustments can help a wide range of conditions and complaints. While low back pain, neck pain, and headaches are the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care, our clinic addresses many other issues as well. Here are some of the problems we frequently treat with chiropractic care:
Lower Back Pain and Sciatica
Relief from chronic or acute back aches, sciatica (shooting leg pain from pinched nerves), and disc-related pain. By realigning lumbar vertebrae and pelvis, we alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve and other nerves, often providing quick relief for radiating leg pain and numbness.
Neck Pain and Stiffness
Treatment for neck cricks, “text neck,” whiplash from auto injuries, and shoulder/upper back tension. Gentle neck adjustments improve mobility and ease muscle tightness, which can also reduce associated symptoms like arm tingling or headaches.
Headaches and Migraines
Many headaches originate in the neck. Chiropractic adjustments (especially cervical spine adjustments) can reduce the frequency and intensity of tension headaches and migraines by correcting misalignments and improving blood flow. Patients often report fewer headaches after a series of adjustments.
Shoulder, Hip, and Joint Pain
Adjustments aren’t just for the spine. We can gently adjust shoulders, knees, hips, ankles, and other joints to improve alignment and function. For example, if you have one hip higher than the other or a frozen shoulder, chiropractic care may restore normal motion. This is great for arthritis pain management – improving joint movement can reduce pain and stiffness.
Arthritis and Degenerative Joint Issues
Seniors with osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease benefit from gentle chiropractic techniques that reduce inflammation and increase range of motion. We use safe, low-force methods to ease joint pain from arthritis in the back or extremities, helping you stay active.
Sports Injuries and Muscle Strains
From pulled muscles to misaligned ribs, we help athletes and active people heal. Chiropractic adjustments ensure your body is in proper alignment so injuries recover faster. Common issues like tennis elbow, runner’s knee, or rotator cuff strains often have biomechanical components that an adjustment can address. (We also provide guidance on stretches and offer sports physicals to keep student-athletes in top shape – see our Sports Physicals page.)
Poor Posture and Overuse Injuries
If you sit at a desk all day or do repetitive work, you might develop forward-head posture, rounded shoulders, or other misalignments that cause pain. We correct postural issues and advise exercises to strengthen your back and core, preventing future strain. Chiropractic care helps counteract the wear-and-tear of modern life and labor-intensive jobs alike.
Chronic Pain and Wellness Care
Even if you don’t have a specific injury, regular chiropractic adjustments can be part of a wellness lifestyle. Many of our patients come in for periodic “tune-ups” to keep their spine aligned, boost their immune function, and prevent issues from arising. Chiropractic has been associated with benefits like improved sleep, stress reduction, and greater overall vitality by keeping the nervous system functioning optimally.
What to Expect During an Adjustment
Visiting a chiropractor for the first time can feel intimidating, but we make the process easy, comfortable, and informative. Here’s what you can expect when you come in for a chiropractic adjustment at The Well-House Chiropractic:
1. Initial Consultation & Exam
Dr. Arthaud will begin by listening to your story and asking about your health history. We want to understand when your pain started, what makes it better or worse, and how it’s affecting your life. After the discussion, the doctor will perform a physical exam with focus on your spine and any problem areas. He’ll check your posture, feel for tight or misaligned spots, and test your range of motion. (If needed, we might recommend X-rays or refer you for imaging to get a clearer picture, but in many cases a thorough exam is enough to proceed safely.)
2. Your Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on the findings, we’ll explain what’s likely causing your pain and outline a plan. This includes how many adjustments or sessions might be ideal, any therapies or exercises to complement the adjustments, and answering all your questions. We always make sure you understand and are comfortable with the approach. There’s no one-size-fits-all; your care plan is tailored to you.
3. The Adjustment Procedure
Now for the actual adjustment (often on the same visit as your exam, unless further tests are needed). We’ll have you get into position on a padded chiropractic table—often lying face down or on your side, depending on the area to adjust. Dr. Arthaud will locate the specific joint that needs correcting. Using his hands (or sometimes a small handheld instrument), he applies a quick, controlled force to the joint. You might feel a swift pressure and hear a “pop” or “click” sound as the joint moves. Don’t be alarmed – that sound is simply gas releasing from the joint fluid, not your bones cracking, and it’s usually not painful at all. Many patients actually find the sensation pleasant, as if pressure is being released. If any technique does feel uncomfortable, tell us right away—we have other gentle methods (more on that below).
4. After the Adjustment
Right after an adjustment, people often feel an immediate sense of relief, easier movement, or lightness in the area. We may apply additional therapy if needed—such as a few minutes of muscle stimulation, stretching, or cupping therapy to further relax tight muscles. Dr. Arthaud will also give you tips for self-care: maybe a stretch to do at home, advice on using ice or heat, or posture corrections. It’s normal to have slight soreness later that day or the next (similar to post-exercise soreness), especially if it’s your first adjustment or you haven’t been aligned in a while. This is a natural reaction as your body adjusts to its new alignment, and it typically fades quickly. Staying hydrated and moving gently can help.
5. Follow-Up and Progress
We’ll schedule follow-up visits as needed. In general, acute issues might need a few adjustments fairly close together (e.g., 1-2 per week for a couple weeks) to get you stable, whereas maintenance or wellness care might be once a month or whatever schedule keeps you feeling your best. Every person heals at their own pace; we will monitor your progress closely. Our goal is to get you feeling better as fast as possible and minimize how many visits you need. And remember, you’re part of the process—we encourage questions and want you to be an active partner in your healing. If something isn’t improving as expected, we will re-evaluate and adjust the plan or refer you to another specialist if needed. Your health and trust are our top priorities.
Gentle Techniques
for Comfortable Care
One common concern we hear is, “I’m nervous about being cracked” or “I don’t like the idea of my back popping.” We get it! If you’re anxious about traditional chiropractic adjustments, rest assured – we have gentle techniques to put you at ease. Dr. Arthaud is trained in a variety of adjusting methods, from classic manual adjustments to low-force, “no-pop” alternatives. Our approach is always “patients first”: we will never force you to do anything you’re uncomfortable with, and we tailor every treatment to your comfort level. Some of the gentle chiropractic techniques we use include:
Activator Method (Instrument Adjusting)
Instead of using a hands-on thrust, we can use a small spring-loaded instrument that delivers a quick, light pulse to the target area. It’s so gentle that some patients barely feel it, but it’s very effective at nudging a stuck joint back into alignment. This technique involves no twisting or cracking noises, making it ideal for those who are nervous, older adults with fragile bones, or anyone who prefers a softer approach.
Drop Table Adjustments
Our adjusting table has special sections that can drop an inch or two when pressure is applied, which allows for a very gentle yet effective adjustment. For example, to adjust your pelvis or lower back, you lie face down and as Dr. Arthaud applies a quick pressure, the table section drops—using gravity and momentum to assist the correction. You might feel a thump from the table drop, but your body doesn’t have to twist or turn at all. It’s an efficient way to realign the spine with minimal force.
Flexion-Distraction (Gentle Spinal Decompression)
For patients with disc issues or very sensitive backs, we may use a specialized adjusting table that gently stretches and flexes your spine. This is a soothing, slow technique often used for conditions like herniated discs or severe lower back tightness. No popping involved—just a rhythmic stretching that helps disks retract and joints mobilize.
Mobilization and Soft Tissue Techniques
Not every session has to involve a high-velocity adjustment. Sometimes, we might slowly mobilize a joint through its range of motion (no fast thrust, just easing it along) to increase mobility. We also incorporate soft tissue work—like trigger point therapy (applying steady pressure to a tight muscle “knot”) or assisted stretching for particularly tight areas. By relaxing the surrounding muscles, often a very gentle pressure on the joint is then enough to realign it. This approach is great for patients in acute pain who can’t tolerate much movement initially.
Cupping and Muscle Therapies
As part of our gentle approach, we may add therapies like cupping therapy (placing suction cups on the skin to lift and relax muscle tissue) or therapeutic ultrasound/TENS (electrical nerve stimulation) to reduce pain and spasm before attempting any adjustments. Once your muscles are looser, sometimes the adjustment can be done with practically no force. These therapies are comfortable (many people find them relaxing) and further ensure you have a positive experience without unnecessary discomfort.
Nervous about the “crack” sound? We’ve got you.
It’s worth repeating: that popping sound you may have heard about is not your bones cracking – it’s just gas release within the joint fluid, similar to the sound when you crack your knuckles. It is completely normal and not painful. However, if you simply dislike the sound or idea of it, we can adjust you without any pops. Techniques like the Activator or gentle mobilization produce little to no audible sound. These methods are just as effective as manual cracking adjustments, so you won’t be missing out on any benefits. Our goal is to have you relaxed and confident during treatment. So, please let us know your preferences and concerns – we will adjust our techniques (pun intended) to make sure you feel comfortable and safe.
At The Well-House Chiropractic, gentle care is our specialty. Many of our patients, from young children to seniors in their 90s, comment on how at ease they feel even if they were nervous initially. Dr. Arthaud’s dual background as a nurse and chiropractor means he is especially attentive to patient comfort and safety. If you have a health condition like osteoporosis, brittle bones, or are post-surgery, we take every precaution and use techniques appropriate for your situation. Trust and comfort are the foundation of our care – we want you to look forward to your visits, not fear them!
Chiropractic for All Ages: Kids, Adults, and Seniors
One of the wonderful things about chiropractic care is that it’s beneficial for everyone – from infants just days old to great-grandparents in their nineties. At our clinic, we truly see all ages. Dr. Arthaud’s philosophy is that if you have a spine, you can benefit from chiropractic! Of course, the techniques and focus will differ depending on the patient’s age and stage of life. Here’s how we adapt our care:
Babies & Children
You might be surprised that babies can get adjusted – but it’s not the same as adjusting an adult. Pediatric chiropractic adjustments are extremely gentle. For infants, it often involves using just the fingertips with light pressure (about the pressure you’d use to test a ripe tomato) along the baby’s spine. Conditions like infant colic, reflux, or frequent ear infections have been linked by some studies to spinal misalignments affecting nerve function. Many parents report improvements in their baby’s sleep, reduction in colic crying, or fewer earaches after a few gentle adjustments. For toddlers and kids, chiropractic can help with things like improving posture (especially as they start carrying backpacks and sitting at school desks) and boosting immunity. And of course, active kids take tumbles – we help ensure those minor falls don’t turn into long-term issues. Chiropractic for kids is always safe and comfortable; we often make it fun by explaining things in kid-friendly terms or letting them see and touch the instrument we might use. Seeing children giggle and enjoy their adjustments is not uncommon here! And parents love that we offer a natural approach to keep their little ones healthy. (If you’re a parent, check out our family wellness services or ask about pediatric chiropractic if you want to learn more.)
Teens & Young Adults
This age group, especially student-athletes, can really benefit from chiropractic care. High schoolers involved in sports come to us to recover from and prevent injuries. We treat plenty of sports-related issues – think sprained ankles, hip misalignments causing knee pain, or neck strain from football – to help teens get back in the game faster. We also do sports physicals for school (with a holistic twist – we not only clear them for participation but also give tips on injury prevention and performance). Beyond sports, today’s teens often struggle with posture from studying on computers or texting. We address “tech neck” and backpack-related back pain for them too. By aligning their spines and educating them on stretches/exercise, we set them up for a healthier adulthood. Teenagers often respond quickly to adjustments and appreciate that we can often resolve things without medications or long downtime, which is great for busy students.
Adults (20s, 30s, 40s, 50s)
This broad group usually comes to us with pains and strains from everyday life and work. Whether you’re a farmer lifting heavy loads, an office worker at a computer, or a busy mom carrying kids and groceries – life puts stress on your body. We treat many working professionals with neck/shoulder tension, lower back pain from long hours or labor, and stress-related aches. For adults, chiropractic care often not only relieves the immediate pain but also helps improve your overall function and resilience. Patients in this stage of life often juggle a lot (careers, family, etc.), so our aim is to keep you functioning at your best so pain doesn’t slow you down. We incorporate lifestyle advice too: ergonomic tips for your workstation, exercises you can do even on a tight schedule, and sometimes nutritional guidance (since as a functional nutritionist, Dr. Arthaud can advise on diet changes or supplements that support musculoskeletal health). Many adults choose to continue with maintenance adjustments once their acute issue is resolved, coming in for a “tune-up” monthly or as needed because they feel the difference in their energy and well-being when their spine is aligned. We love seeing our adult patients thrive, whether that means being able to play on the floor with their kids again, or simply getting through the work week without that nagging back pain.
Pregnant Mothers
Pregnancy is an incredibly special time but can be hard on the body, especially the back and hips. Our clinic offers prenatal chiropractic care for expecting moms to help with pregnancy-related aches. As your belly grows, your center of gravity shifts, often causing pelvic misalignment and lower back pain (hello, waddle!). We use special pregnancy pillows or an adjustable table to accommodate your bump safely and comfortably. Gentle adjustments (no pressure on the abdomen, of course) can relieve pregnancy back pain, hip or pelvic discomfort, and even sciatica that many moms-to-be experience. Keeping the pelvis aligned during pregnancy not only eases pain but may also encourage a smoother delivery by ensuring there’s optimal space for the baby to get in the right position. Dr. Arthaud is experienced in techniques safe for pregnancy (similar to the Webster technique used for pelvic alignment in pregnant women). Many OB/GYNs and midwives are supportive of chiropractic care for their pregnant patients as a way to avoid excessive medications and stay comfortable naturally. If you’re an expectant mom, we’d love to help you have the healthiest, most comfortable pregnancy possible – and yes, we can even see your newborn after he or she arrives to ensure they start life aligned!
Seniors (60+):
Our senior patients hold a special place in our hearts. We believe age is just a number—with the right care, you can stay active and pain-free well into your golden years. For older adults, we focus on gentle, low-force adjustments that accommodate conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis. Chiropractic care for seniors can provide relief from chronic aches (like arthritic back or neck pain), improve spinal flexibility, and even help with balance and coordination issues. By keeping the spine and nervous system tuned up, many seniors find they have better mobility and fewer falls. We also work on areas like knees, shoulders, or hips if they’re giving you trouble. Even mild vestibular adjustments or inner ear techniques can sometimes help seniors with dizziness. And don’t worry – we won’t twist you up like a pretzel. Techniques for seniors often involve more gentle pressure, the use of instruments, or simply positioning and gravity-assisted methods as described earlier. The goal is to make you feel better, not sore. We’ve had patients in their 80s tell us they feel 10 years younger after a series of treatments, regaining the ability to take walks, tend the garden, or play with grandkids with less pain. If you’re a caregiver or adult child of a senior, you’ll be happy to know we take extra time with our older patients, listening to their concerns and making sure they feel safe and steady during visits. Seeing our senior patients stay independent and active is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.
All Ages
No matter your age or stage of life, chiropractic care can likely benefit you. Dr. Arthaud’s unique background as both a chiropractor and registered nurse means he has a well-rounded perspective on treating patients of all ages safely. Our clinic is family-friendly – it’s not uncommon to see three generations of a family all coming in for their adjustments together! (We even have a kids’ area in the waiting room to keep little ones entertained.) So whether you’re seeking relief for yourself, your baby, or your elderly parent, know that you’ll receive individualized, compassionate care here at The Well-House Chiropractic.
Combined Care: Chiropractic + Other Therapies for Holistic Healing
While chiropractic adjustments are at the heart of what we do, they are by no means the only tool we offer. The Well-House Chiropractic takes a holistic approach to health, meaning we address your well-being from multiple angles. Many patients get the best results when chiropractic is combined with other therapies or lifestyle changes. Here’s how we integrate our services for your maximum benefit:
Functional Nutrition & Wellness Coaching
True wellness comes from the inside out. Because Dr. Arthaud is not only a chiropractor but also trained in functional nutrition, we can provide guidance on diet, supplements, and lifestyle that complement your adjustments. For example, if you suffer from chronic inflammation or muscle spasms, we might discuss anti-inflammatory nutrition or ensuring you have the right vitamins/minerals for muscle and nerve health (like magnesium, omega-3s, etc.). We offer Functional Nutrition consultations, including telehealth nutrition coaching, to dig deeper into issues like gut health, fatigue, or weight management that might be affecting your overall health and how you heal. Patients who embrace both chiropractic and nutrition often see faster and more profound improvements. Imagine pairing your spinal adjustments with a personalized nutrition plan – you’ll be addressing the structural and chemical aspects of health together, truly a powerful combo.
Therapeutic Modalities (Cupping, E-stim)
In addition to adjustments, we provide several in-office therapies to accelerate your recovery. Cupping therapy is one such service, where suction cups are placed on tight muscles to increase blood flow and release tension – this can be especially helpful for stubborn knots or athletic recovery. For acute injuries or significant pain, we have modalities like electrical muscle stimulation (TENS) or ultrasound therapy, which can reduce pain and inflammation in soft tissues. By combining these therapies with chiropractic adjustments, we’re not just aligning your spine but also treating the muscles and connective tissue, leading to more complete and lasting relief. It’s a bit like getting chiropractic and a mini-physical therapy session rolled into one.
Exercise Rehab and Stretches
Proper movement is key to staying pain-free. After we get you aligned, we often give at-home exercises or stretches to strengthen the areas around your spine. For instance, if you have recurring low back pain, we might show you core stabilization exercises; if you have neck pain, we’ll teach you cervical stretches and posture exercises. We can also guide you on ergonomics – how to set up your desk or how to lift properly – to prevent re-injury. This “active care” approach means you become a partner in your healing, not just a passive receiver of treatment. It leads to better long-term results. We may schedule a re-exam or check-in after a few weeks to see how you’re doing with these exercises and adjust as needed.
Sports Physicals & Performance Care
We mentioned earlier our sports physical exams for student-athletes. What’s great about coming to a chiropractic office for a sports physical is that we not only fill out the required forms, but we also examine the athlete’s biomechanics. If we spot any imbalances (say, one leg slightly shorter or a weak core) that might predispose them to injury, we’ll let you know and propose a plan – perhaps a couple of adjustments or exercise sessions to correct it before the season. For active adults, we offer performance tune-ups: maybe you’re training for a 5K or a big golf tournament – getting aligned and addressing any nagging issues beforehand can improve your performance and reduce injury risk. Athletes from Chillicothe and even as far as Kirksville and Cameron come to us because they appreciate having a sports-minded chiropractor on their team. We love seeing our patients break their personal records and stay in the game, thanks in part to a holistic care plan.
Collaborative Care & Referrals
Being holistic doesn’t mean we do everything in-house. Part of our commitment to your health is recognizing when you might need other types of care. Dr. Arthaud’s nursing background gives him insight into when something should be co-managed or referred out (for example, if we suspect a fracture, infection, or other non-musculoskeletal issue causing pain). We have a network of local physicians, massage therapists, and other specialists we trust. So if you need an X-ray, blood work, or any concurrent care, we’ll help coordinate that. We want to be your wellness hub – even if we’re not treating a specific issue, you can ask us for guidance on where to go. Ultimately, our goal is your total well-being, and we’re happy to work with your primary care doctor, surgeon, or any other provider to achieve that.
The Full Picture of your health
By addressing the full picture of your health, we aim to deliver results that last. For instance, consider a patient with chronic headaches: an ideal plan might include neck and upper back adjustments to relieve tension, nutritional counseling to identify any food triggers or dehydration issues.That kind of 360-degree care can truly transform someone’s life. We call it our “move well, think well, be well” approach – aligning your body, advising your lifestyle, and caring for your mental well-being as part of the process.
When you come to The Well-House Chiropractic, you’re not just getting a quick crack and sent out the door. You’re getting a partner in health. We’ll equip you with knowledge and support to keep improving even between visits. And as your health evolves, we’ll adjust (there’s that pun again!) your plan accordingly. This comprehensive, caring approach is what sets us apart and why so many families in Chillicothe and across north Missouri entrust us with their health.
Success Stories from Our Patients
Ready to Feel Your Best?
You don’t have to live with pain or accept stiffness as “just part of life.” With chiropractic care and our holistic services, you can get back to doing what you love – whether that’s playing on the floor with your kids, excelling in sports, or simply waking up without that nagging ache.
Tired of living with pain? Take the first step toward relief today. We offer same-week appointments in most cases, and new patients are always welcome. Our friendly team will guide you through the process, from scheduling to answering insurance questions.
Call or text us at (740) 823-9355 to book your visit, or use our easy online booking system to choose a time that works for you (initial consultations can even be scheduled online – just look for the “Book Appointment” button on our website).
Our clinic is conveniently located at 519 Locust Street, Chillicothe, MO – easily reachable for patients coming from Trenton, Brookfield, Cameron, and throughout the north-central Missouri region. We have free parking and a comfortable, family-friendly office environment that will make you feel right at home.
Don’t let pain or fear hold you back from a healthier, happier life. Experience the difference of gentle, holistic chiropractic care at The Well-House Chiropractic. We’re confident that after just one visit, you’ll understand why so many of your neighbors trust us as their chiropractor. Ready to stand taller and hurt less? Book your chiropractic exam today and let’s get you on the path to feeling great!
Frequently Asked Questions
About Chiropractic at The Well-House
What is a chiropractic adjustment and how does it work?
A chiropractic adjustment is a specialized, controlled force applied by a chiropractor to a joint that is not moving properly. In most cases, Dr. Arthaud uses his hands (or a small instrument) to gently realign misaligned vertebrae in your spine. By doing so, we remove pressure from nerves, reduce muscle tension, and restore normal motion to the joint. In simpler terms, an adjustment “unsticks” joints that aren’t moving right. This improves your body’s mechanics and allows your nervous system to communicate better with the rest of your body. Patients often feel immediate relief or a sense of release when an adjustment is performed. It’s a quick procedure and generally causes little to no discomfort. The goal is to help your body heal itself by ensuring everything is in proper alignment.
Do chiropractic adjustments hurt?
No, adjustments typically do not hurt. Most patients find them relieving and comfortable. You might feel a bit of pressure or hear a popping sound, but the procedure is usually quick and the relief often follows immediately. Dr. Arthaud is very gentle and will always adapt the treatment to your comfort level – if you are tense or nervous, he’ll take it slow and use softer techniques. It’s common to feel instant relief or lightness after an adjustment. In some cases, especially if it’s your first adjustment or you’ve had a problem for a long time, you might experience mild soreness or achiness a day afterwards (much like how you feel after starting a new exercise). This is normal and temporary, as your body adjusts to its new alignment. Any soreness can usually be eased with a little ice or a warm bath, and it fades quickly. We always encourage you to communicate with us: if something feels uncomfortable during the adjustment, let us know and we will modify our approach. Our primary concern is that you feel safe and experience positive results.
Are chiropractic adjustments safe?
Yes – chiropractic care is widely regarded as a safe, non-invasive treatment for musculoskeletal pain. Dr. Arthaud is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic with extensive training, and he utilizes techniques that prioritize patient safety. According to the Mayo Clinic, serious complications from chiropractic adjustments are very rare. In fact, for common issues like back or neck pain, chiropractic is often safer than long-term use of pain medications or invasive procedures. We take a thorough history and perform an exam to make sure chiropractic is appropriate for you before beginning treatment. Certain situations (like severe osteoporosis or spinal fractures) are not suited for high-velocity adjustments, and in those cases we either use extremely gentle methods or refer you to the right specialist. Rest assured, we tailor every treatment to your health status – if you have underlying conditions, we modify techniques accordingly. Overall, for the vast majority of patients, the biggest “side effect” of a chiropractic adjustment is improved mobility and relief! Many people, including children and seniors, get adjusted safely every day. You’re in good hands here.
Why do chiropractors make a popping sound during adjustments?
The popping or cracking sound sometimes heard during a chiropractic adjustment is a common concern, but it’s nothing to worry about. That “pop” is simply the release of gas bubbles from the fluid in your joints when they move – similar to when you crack your knuckles. When a joint is adjusted, the pressure change can cause nitrogen gas in the synovial fluid to escape, creating that audible sound. It is not bones cracking or rubbing together, and it doesn’t cause pain. In fact, you can have a very effective adjustment with no sound at all; the noise isn’t necessary for the treatment to “work,” it’s just a side effect that sometimes happens. If you’re someone who dislikes that sound, let us know. We have techniques (like using the Activator tool or gentle mobilization) that typically produce no popping noise. So, bottom line: the sound is normal and harmless – but not required. What’s most important is that the joint motion is restored, sound or no sound, to relieve pressure and pain.
Can children and seniors receive chiropractic adjustments safely?
Absolutely. We treat patients from newborn infants to those in their 90s safely with chiropractic care – the key is that we modify our techniques for the individual’s age and condition. For children, especially babies and toddlers, the adjustments are extraordinarily gentle. In infants, it might just be a light fingertip pressure; they often sleep right through it! Kids’ bodies tend to respond quickly and they usually enjoy getting adjusted (it’s gentle enough that they often feel like it’s a game or just a light back rub). Chiropractic can help kids with things like colic, ear infections, growing pains, and posture as they lug heavy school backpacks. For seniors, we use low-force adjustments or instruments rather than any jerky movements. Older adults often have conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis, which we fully consider – techniques like drop-table adjustments or Activator instrument allow us to align the spine without putting stress on fragile bones. Many seniors find relief from arthritis stiffness, better balance, and improved overall mobility with regular gentle chiropractic care. Dr. Arthaud’s training as both a chiropractor and RN gives him a unique understanding of treating patients at both ends of the age spectrum. In both kids and seniors, chiropractic is very safe when delivered appropriately, and we take every precaution to ensure a comfortable experience. No matter your age, we will ensure the treatment is safe and effective for you.
How often do I need to get a chiropractic adjustment?
The frequency of your visits depends on your specific condition and health goals – it’s not one-size-fits-all. During your initial consultation, Dr. Arthaud will create a personalized care plan for you. If you’re dealing with an acute issue (say a recent injury or a flare-up of severe pain), you might benefit from a few adjustments fairly close together (for example, 2-3 times the first week or two) to get the problem under control. As you improve, we’ll space out the visits. For chronic issues or corrective care, a typical plan might be once or twice a week for several weeks, then tapering off as your spine stabilizes. Once you’re feeling good and just want to maintain that state, many patients choose to come in about once a month or every few weeks for wellness or maintenance care. These “tune-up” adjustments help catch small issues before they turn into big pains and keep you functioning at your best. Of course, the decision is always yours – some patients come only as needed when something hurts, and that’s okay too. We don’t do long-term contracts or anything like that. We will recommend what we think is ideal, but we’ll work with you to create a schedule that fits your life and budget. And as your condition improves, we constantly re-evaluate and will adjust (pun intended) the frequency. The goal is to give you lasting relief as efficiently as possible, and then help you maintain it with minimal visits.