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Spinal manipulation or chiropractic adjustments as they're sometimes referred to, are the minor movement of the vertebrae that join together to create the spinal column. The objective is to restore joint mobility to joints that have become restricted in their movement. This can occur for a number of reasons ranging from normal daily activities, such as sitting for extended periods of time, poor spinal posture, improper lifting of an object or a single traumatic occurence such as a car accident. 

When these vertebrae don't move the way they normally should, it could have a negative overall systemic effect on the body from the musculature to the central nervous system. This can also cause inflammation, pain and decrease athletic performance. Without proper spinal biomechanics, alignment and flow of all nerves and systems in the body from the brain, we can't function at our peak. 

An adjustment is often a brief pressure from the chiropractor utilizing the hands or an instrument called the Activator Tool to restore normal motion. This happens with a quick movement and is often without discomfort. You may hear a noise that sounds like you're cracking your knuckles referred to as joint cavitation. It is the quick release of gases such as oxygen and nitrogen from the joint capsule. 

Overall, chiropractic adjustments performed on the affected joints and soft tissues is an excellent way to reduce neuromusculoskeletal pain, soft tissue tightness, and allowing the body to heal naturally. These adjustments are even ultized by olympic and professional athletes to keep their bodies functioning at its highest level.