These techniques are commonly used by osteopaths as part of their treatment. It usually produces a clicking or popping sound which is due to the collapsing of a gas bubble in the joint due to it being minutely separated. It is thought to produce:
1.temporary relief of musculoskeletal pain,
2.quicker recovery from acute back sprains,
3.a temporary increase in passive range of motion in the joint and physiological effects upon the central nervous system.
Some reasons have been published as to how it may produce the clinical effects that it does:
1.Releasing of entrapped folds of synovium in the joint
2.Relaxation of very tight muscles
3.Reduction in the tightness or restriction in the joints
4.Correcting alignment in the joint
I will explain to you what the treatment I am proposing to do is for and how it will help. I will also explain the procedure and any possible risks attached. It is a safe treatment with a risk of about 1 :100,000 of any serious adverse effects. There is less risk than having surgery in the neck 1:145 and taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatories over a year 1:4,000. I will give you the option as to whether you wish to consent to the treatment. You may feel some side effects of the treatment such as local discomfort, headache, tiredness or radiating discomfort.