Chiropractic care at HealthSource of Roseland starts with a conversation and an exam, then a plain talk about what we find. Dr. Jenna Patel, D.C., uses hands-on adjustments that aim to improve how the joints of your spine move. Here you can learn what an adjustment is, how she decides if it suits you, and what it feels like. We also cover safety and the times when a different kind of help makes more sense.
What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a quick, gentle thrust that a chiropractor usually delivers by hand. Its goal is to improve how a joint moves and works, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). Most adjustments focus on the spine. However, chiropractors may also adjust other joints in a similar way.
At our office, adjustments can be one part of a wider plan. Dr. Patel also uses soft tissue work, exercise rehab, and nutrition and lifestyle guidance. In short, she looks for the source of your problem, not only the symptoms.
How Dr. Patel decides if chiropractic care fits you
We do not start with an adjustment. First, you fill out a health history form. Next, you sit down with Dr. Patel to talk about your pain, your daily routine and your goals. Then she checks your posture, how you move and where it hurts. We take X-rays on site only if clinically needed.
After that, Dr. Patel explains what she found and lays out a care plan before any treatment starts. That way, you know what each step is for. Please ask questions, and tell her about any health conditions, medicines or supplements. You can read every step on our page about your first visit.
What an adjustment feels like
An adjustment is fast. Dr. Patel first helps you settle into a relaxed, supported position. Then she applies a short, controlled push with her hands. The push moves the joint a little further than it would go on its own, so you may feel a brief stretch. You can ask questions or ask her to stop at any time.
Afterward, some people notice mild to moderate soreness, stiffness or a headache. These effects happen often, and most fade within a day, according to NCCIH’s guide to spinal manipulation. If soreness lasts longer, call us so Dr. Patel can review your plan.
Who chiropractic care may help
Chiropractors often treat problems of the muscles, joints and spine. In our Roseland office, Dr. Patel sees people with:
- Back pain after long days at a desk or heavy lifting
- Neck pain and stiffness from screens and phones
- Sciatica, bulging discs and arthritis
- Headaches and migraines
- Sports, workplace and auto injuries
- Shoulder, hip, knee, foot and ankle pain
Research on spinal manipulation is still growing. NCCIH reports that it may bring small to modest gains for low back pain. It may also help some neck pain and some headaches, but that evidence is more limited. Along with adjustments, Dr. Patel’s plans can include exercise rehab and lifestyle guidance. So if you sit at a desk all day along Eisenhower Parkway, or you stay active and feel the strain, an exam is a sensible place to start.
Is chiropractic care safe?
Serious problems after an adjustment are very rare, NCCIH says. They include serious spine or nerve problems and a rare tear in a neck artery that can lead to a stroke. Experts still disagree about whether neck adjustments cause these tears. Even so, you deserve to know about the risk before you decide.
Some health problems you already have can raise the risk. For that reason, a thorough exam and an honest health history matter. Dr. Patel explains her plan before any treatment starts, so you can ask about risks first.
When it is not the right fit
Chiropractic care focuses on problems with muscles, joints and the spine. NCCIH notes that studies show no clear benefit from spinal manipulation for other conditions, such as high blood pressure. If you are pregnant, NCCIH suggests that you talk over the risks and benefits with your own health care provider first. Also, if your exam points to a problem outside our scope, Dr. Patel will tell you and suggest you see a medical doctor.
When to see a medical doctor or go to the ER
Call 911 or go to the ER right away if you have any of these:
- Sudden weakness, numbness or trouble speaking
- Loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness in the groin
- A severe headache unlike any you have had before
- Chest pain or trouble breathing
- Pain after a serious fall or car crash
See your medical doctor soon for pain with a fever, weight loss you cannot explain, a history of cancer, or pain that wakes you at night.
Insurance, cost and getting started
We accept most major insurance plans, and we suggest you call to check your plan before your visit. You can also use financing through Cherry or CareCredit, or ask about the APEX discount plan. You can find the details on our insurance and financing page.
This page shares general information, not a diagnosis. To find out if chiropractic care fits your pain, book a visit online or call our Roseland office at (973) 200-2424.