During an adjustment, the practitioner uses their hands to apply controlled force on the affected joint, like an ankle or wrist. They may also gently exercise it to increase mobility.
For conditions like back pain, force is applied to vertebrae, called spinal manipulation therapy (SMT). The adjustments made at a chiropractic clinic are usually painless, although some discomfort may be expected if you unconsciously tense or stiffen your body during treatment. You can expect an adjustment appointment to last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.