Spinal manipulation is a common term used to describe various manual techniques used to manipulate the spine. The correct spelling of this word is /ˈspaɪnəl məˌnɪpjʊˈleɪʃən/. The initial "s" is pronounced as /s/, followed by the vowel sound /aɪ/ and the consonant sound /n/. The "a" in "manipulation" is pronounced as /ə/, and "u" is pronounced as /ʊ/. The final syllable is pronounced as /ˈleɪʃən/, where "sh" is pronounced as /ʃ/. Understanding the phonetic transcription of this word can help in achieving proper pronunciation and spelling.
Spinal manipulation, also known as chiropractic adjustment or spinal adjustment, refers to a manual therapy technique used by healthcare professionals, primarily chiropractors, to alleviate a variety of musculoskeletal symptoms and promote overall health and well-being. It involves the controlled application of force, pressure, or impulse to a specific joint or area of the spine with the aim of restoring proper alignment and function.
During a spinal manipulation, the chiropractor uses their hands or specialized instruments to perform adjustments that target the spinal vertebrae or peripheral joints in the body. The procedure aims to address vertebral subluxations, which are misalignments or abnormal movements of the spine, and to relieve associated symptoms such as pain, stiffness, muscle tension, or limited mobility.
Spinal manipulation is based on the theory that misalignments or dysfunctions in the spine can disrupt the nervous system's proper functioning, leading to various health issues. By correcting these dysfunctions, chiropractors believe they can improve nervous system function, promote healing, reduce pain, and enhance the body's self-regulatory capacity.
This technique is typically safe and effective when performed by a trained and licensed healthcare professional. However, it is important to note that spinal manipulation may not be suitable for everyone, such as individuals with certain spinal conditions, severe osteoporosis, or those who have recently undergone surgery. It is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if spinal manipulation is appropriate for your specific condition.
The word "spinal" comes from the Latin word "spina", meaning "thorn" or "spine". It refers to the vertebral column or spinal column.
The term "manipulation" originates from the Latin word "manipulus", which means "a handful" or "a handling". In this context, it refers to the action of skillfully controlling or adjusting something with the hands.
Therefore, the term "spinal manipulation" describes the process of using hands-on techniques to adjust or manipulate the spine, usually performed by chiropractors or osteopaths.