Instrument based 'No-Crack' or traditional "Hands-on" adjustment techniques are available
- neighborhoodfamily
- Feb 19
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 20
When you receive a chiropractic adjustment, you may hear a popping or cracking sound. This noise, called cavitation, occurs when gas bubbles in the synovial fluid of your joints rapidly collapse due to a sudden change in pressure. It is similar to the sound made when you crack your knuckles and is not caused by bones rubbing against each other. While the sound can be surprising, it is typically painless and is simply a byproduct of joint movement during a traditional manual adjustment.
At Neighborhood Family Chiropractic, we understand that not everyone is comfortable with the popping sounds associated with traditional hands-on chiropractic care. That’s why we offer instrument-based “no-crack” adjustments, which provide gentle and precise spinal corrections without the twisting or thrusting motions that produce cavitation. Using specialized tools, we deliver controlled impulses to targeted areas of the spine, allowing for improved alignment and function with minimal force. This technique is ideal for patients who are nervous about manual adjustments or prefer a quieter, more subtle approach to chiropractic care.

The instrument itself can be calibrated to each patient based upon the doctor's discretion. The end of the instrument is a soft rubber cushion, it is pressed into the misaligned joint and "CLICKED" which provides an impulse that gently introduces motion into the joint.
While instrument-based adjustments are not the same as traditional hands-on spinal manipulation, they are a widely used and effective alternative. This method is particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions that make manual adjustments unsuitable, such as osteoporosis, severe arthritis, or certain spinal disorders. It also offers a comfortable option for children, elderly patients, or those who simply prefer a gentler touch.
At Neighborhood Family Chiropractic, our goal is to provide safe, effective, and personalized care that meets the unique needs of every patient, ensuring optimal spinal health without unnecessary discomfort. Call 631-316-1007 to schedule your appointment.