What exactly is a chiropractic adjustment?
Your Care · answered by Dr. Alan S. Bader, DC — Chiropractic Physician.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Alan S. Bader, DC — Chiropractic Physician, Nevada License B-567 · Dr. Bader · Dr. Doyle · Last reviewed: July 2026
The short answer
An adjustment is a specific, controlled, quick-but-shallow force applied to a joint that examination shows isn't moving correctly — to restore motion and reduce the protective muscle guarding around it. 'Specific' is the whole craft: which segment, which direction, how much force — decided by examination, not routine.
The full picture
What it isn't: bones being pushed 'back into place' (they're not out), the pop being the therapy (it's incidental gas release), or one-size-fits-all back cracking. The skill — the reason it takes a doctorate and a license — is in the assessment that aims the force and the control that delivers it.
Variations exist for every patient: classic manual techniques, gentler mobilization for joints that need coaxing rather than thrust, instrument-assisted options, and extremity adjusting for shoulders, hips, feet and hands. Your findings and comfort choose the tool.
The old-site language said it plainly and we'll keep it: care includes manipulation of both the articular (joint) and soft tissues — the two halves of the mechanical problem.
Your situation has its own specifics — a two-minute call gets you a straight answer for it: (775) 829-7575.
This page is education, not medical advice for your specific situation — an examination is how care decisions get made. If you may be experiencing an emergency, call 911. Full medical disclaimer.
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What patients say
Reno Patients, In Their Own Words
“First time here… Friendly and efficient receptionist, she explained everything in detail. I saw Dr. Bader. Listened to my areas of pain, explained many things and my first adjustment was great. He is also friendly, has good “bedside” manners. They are a hometown health provider.”
“I’ve been seeing Dr. Bader for the last 15 years. He is extremely knowledgeable and has a great bedside manor. The office is very well run… Most insurance is accepted and if it’s not, the cash plan is very reasonable. Walk in’s are acceptable and same day appointments are most likely.”
“Dr Bader is a Super Chiropractor! Palmer educated.”
“They actually work on fixing your issues with adjustments and therapy and get you in and out of the office in a timely manner.”
Real patient reviews from Google and Yelp, quoted word-for-word (ellipses mark trims — nothing else is changed). Individual experiences vary — care decisions always follow an examination. Read them all — unfiltered — at the sources.
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