What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic care is a healthcare approach focused on the function and movement of the spine and musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors evaluate the spine and joints for areas of restricted movement or dysfunction and use specific adjustments and other therapies to help restore proper joint motion and function.
At Larkin Family Chiropractic, we take a whole-person approach to care. In addition to chiropractic adjustments, we may incorporate rehabilitative exercises, soft-tissue therapies, decompression, laser therapy, and other supportive treatments based on each patient's individual needs and goals. Our goal is to help patients reduce pain, improve movement, and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
What is a subluxation?
A chiropractic subluxation refers to an area of joint dysfunction or restricted movement that may affect the normal function of the joint and surrounding tissues. This dysfunction can contribute to pain, stiffness, inflammation, and altered movement, and may also affect the surrounding nervous system. Chiropractic adjustments are used to help restore proper joint motion and function while supporting healthy communication between the body and nervous system.
What is an adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a controlled, specific force applied to a joint to help restore proper movement and function. Adjustments may help reduce joint restriction, improve mobility, and relieve pain and muscle tension. Depending on the patient and area being treated, adjustments may be performed by hand or with specialized instruments such as the Activator.
What is the “pop” sound heard during adjustments?
During a traditional chiropractic adjustment, a chiropractor applies a controlled, gentle force to a restricted joint to help restore movement. The familiar “pop” is called a cavitation and occurs when gases are rapidly released within the joint—it is not your bones or cartilage snapping.
Importantly, an adjustment does not need to produce a popping sound to be effective. Some adjustments are completely silent, yet can still help improve joint movement and function.
How long does healing take?
Every patient and condition is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all timeline for care. The number of visits you need depends on factors such as the type and severity of your condition, how long you have been experiencing symptoms, your overall health, and how your body responds to treatment.
After your initial evaluation, we will explain our findings and recommend a personalized care plan based on your specific needs and goals. As your condition improves, your care plan may be adjusted to focus on maintaining your progress, preventing recurrence, and supporting long-term health and function.
Our goal is to help you make meaningful progress while providing the appropriate level of care—not simply to schedule you for a predetermined number of visits.