A chiropractic adjustment is a quick, low force thrust applied to the nervous system to remove interference in the communication from the brain to muscles, the organs, the tissues, and the cells. In short, it speeds up healing by improving the communication within the body. Adjusting the nervous system helps to free up energy to fully recover. Adjustments or spinal manipulation can be performed by hand or by using a small instrument to put a small force to the joint area. This can be done on the back, neck, or extremities to help relieve pain and irritation.

Doctors of chiropractic may evaluate a patient based on postural exams, ranges of motion, history intake, laboratory testing/blood work, and diagnostic testing such as X-rays or MRI results.