Manipulation is the minor movement of vertebrae in the spine. A trigger point is an area in muscle tissue that causes pain in different parts of the body. When vertebrae are out of place, it has an overall systemic effect from muscular to the central nervous system. Without proper alignment and flow of all nerves and systems in the body from the brain, we can't function at our peak. The objective of spinal manipulation or trigger point therapy is to realign vertebrae and relieve pain.
Manipulating an area of the body often involves a pressure from the chiropractor utilizing the hands or an instrument to move a vertebrae back into place. 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 release of gases such as oxygen and nitrogen from the joint.
Manipulation or trigger point therapy is an excellent way to keep the body functioning at its highest level. When the body is in alignment, the body is able to respond and perform as it was designed to.