Chiropractic Manipulation and Mobilization
Chiropractors use spinal or joint manipulation (also called adjustment) to restore the mobility of the spine and peripheral joints. During the adjustment, a small noise, called cavitation or popping, can be heard. This is the sound of gas trapped within the joint being released by the manipulation. I always get the patient’s consent before performing the type of manipulation that produces this noise.
Depending on the patient’s condition or preference, mobilizations (i.e., manipulations without cavitation) may also be used. Your health history may be such that spinal manipulation is contraindicated. In such cases, I use only gentle mobilization techniques.