The phrase “full body adjustment” is a consumer-friendly term used to describe a comprehensive manual therapy session aimed at improving alignment, mobility, and function across the entire musculoskeletal system. This is not a formal medical diagnosis or a standardized procedure name, but it reflects the desire for an approach that addresses the body holistically, rather than focusing on a single area of pain. When seeking this type of treatment, understanding the distinctions between various licensed professionals and their techniques is the first step toward finding a qualified provider.
Understanding the Term Full Body Adjustment
A “full body adjustment” generally refers to a session that combines several hands-on techniques. The most recognized technique is the high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust, often associated with the characteristic audible pop or “cracking” sound. This technique is applied to specific joint restrictions to restore normal range of motion.
The concept of “full body” means the practitioner addresses the entire musculoskeletal system, not just the spinal column. They address peripheral joints (shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles) and soft tissues like muscles and fascia. Treatment includes joint mobilization (slower, repetitive movements) and soft tissue work (stretching and pressure to release tension). This approach aims to reduce rigidity throughout the body, improving overall movement patterns.
Primary Licensed Professionals for Spinal Manipulation
Two primary types of licensed healthcare providers are trained and legally authorized to perform spinal manipulation, which is the core component of a traditional “adjustment.” These professions have distinct training pathways and philosophies of care.
Doctors of Chiropractic (DC) are perhaps the most commonly associated with the term “adjustment,” which they use to describe the application of controlled, rapid force to a joint. Chiropractic training focuses heavily on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system and nervous system. They view the body holistically, often using spinal manipulation to help the body function optimally.
Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) are licensed physicians who can practice in any area of medicine, including prescribing medication and performing surgery. They receive specialized training in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), which involves a range of techniques, including HVLA thrusts, stretching, and gentle pressure. Osteopathic physicians integrate OMT into their broader medical practice to diagnose and treat a wide variety of conditions across all body systems.
Chiropractors focus on using specific force, leverage, and velocity on targeted joints, while OMT employs a broader set of techniques like stretching and resistance in addition to manipulation. Both professions are trained in manual techniques, but the DO’s training includes the full scope of medical practice. The choice depends on whether a patient prefers a specialist in manual therapy or a physician who incorporates these techniques alongside traditional medical care.
Other Specialists and Wellness Settings
Other licensed professionals also offer manual therapy techniques that contribute to a comprehensive, full-body approach, though their scope of practice may differ from the primary manipulators.
Physical Therapists (PTs) are movement experts who incorporate manual therapy into a broader rehabilitative plan that includes therapeutic exercise. PTs perform joint mobilization, using passive movement to improve joint function. Many PTs also perform high-velocity, low-amplitude manipulation, often called “thrust manipulation,” to rapidly reduce pain and increase range of motion. Their approach is paired with patient education and exercise to ensure long-term functional improvement.
Specialized massage therapists and advanced bodyworkers, such as those practicing structural integration, offer comprehensive hands-on treatment. These professionals focus primarily on soft tissue mobilization, including deep tissue work, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy. While they address muscle tension and fascia throughout the body, they are not licensed to perform spinal manipulation or the HVLA thrust technique that defines a traditional “adjustment.” An integrated wellness clinic where multiple professionals collaborate can offer the most comprehensive approach.
Essential Steps for Vetting a Provider
Before receiving any manual therapy, verify the credentials and licensing of the chosen provider. All licensed healthcare practitioners, including Chiropractors, Osteopathic Physicians, and Physical Therapists, are regulated by state professional boards. Verifying a current, unrestricted license ensures the practitioner has met the necessary educational and ethical standards.
A qualified provider will conduct a proper intake and assessment before initiating any hands-on treatment. This involves a thorough review of your medical history, current symptoms, and a physical examination to identify any contraindications that would make manual manipulation unsafe. They must discuss the specific treatment plan, including the techniques they intend to use, and obtain informed consent. This initial assessment customizes the treatment to your specific biomechanical needs.