What is the sound I sometimes hear when the doctor adjusts my spine?
The sound that is sometimes heard with the adjustment is often referred to as a “release.” This pop or crack results from a sudden pressure change within the joints when the joint surfaces are separated allowing an increase in mobility of the joint. Think about separating two wet objects which have become adhered together by a thin layer of water between the surfaces. Separating them, like the joints, often results in a pop or cracking sound. The adjustment procedure which may result in such a release is usually painless. In fact most patients remark “that felt good”. When should I use Heat or Ice on an injury? This is one of the most common questions asked. When in doubt use ice. Ice, when properly applied, can never harm you. Heat, however, when applied too early in the acute stage of an injury may actually increase inflammation and prolong healing. Use ice packs when: • Attempting to reduce pain and inflammation • After any injury caused by physical trauma resulting in a sudden or g
