Certified Extremity Adjustments In Des Moines
Relieve Joint Pain Beyond The Spine
Chiropractic care isn't limited to the spine. Extremity adjustments target joint pain and dysfunction in areas like the knees, ankles, shoulders, and jaw, helping restore proper movement and relieve pain that's often left untreated by more general care, since most people don't think to bring joint pain to a chiropractor at all.
Dr. Jeffery Stickel holds a specific certification in extremity adjustments, giving patients at ADIO Chiropractic Clinic access to focused, joint-specific care that goes beyond a standard chiropractic visit. Whether your pain stems from an old injury, overuse, or general wear and tear, extremity adjustments may be able to help you move more comfortably again.
Ready to find out if extremity adjustments could help your joint pain? Request an appointment today.
Why Joint Pain Needs Its Own Approach
How Extremity Adjustments Differ From Spinal Care
Most people think of chiropractic care as spine-focused, but joints throughout the rest of the body, knees, ankles, shoulders, elbows, and the jaw, can develop the same kind of restricted movement and misalignment that causes pain in the back and neck. When a joint isn't moving the way it should, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and even compensation patterns that create problems elsewhere in the body.
Extremity adjustments apply targeted, hands-on techniques to these joints specifically, restoring proper motion and relieving the pressure or restriction that's often at the root of the pain. Because every joint moves differently than the spine, this requires specialized training beyond general chiropractic education, which is why Dr. Stickel pursued certification specifically in extremity adjusting.
Joints We Commonly Treat
Extremity adjustments can be used on nearly any joint in the body, but we most frequently treat:
- Shoulders, especially for patients dealing with restricted range of motion or pain with overhead movement
- Knees, particularly for pain related to overuse, old injuries, or joint stiffness
- Ankles and feet, which are common sites for old sprains that never fully resolved
- The TMJ, or jaw joint, for patients experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty chewing
Conditions Extremity Adjustments Can Help
Because extremity adjustments target the joint directly, they're often recommended alongside other care for patients dealing with:
- Chronic shoulder pain that limits daily movement or sleep
- Ongoing hip pain related to joint restriction
- Persistent knee pain, including pain from old injuries or overuse
- TMJ disorder, including jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty chewing
What To Expect During Treatment
Extremity adjustments involve hands-on, targeted techniques specific to the joint being treated. Before any adjustment, Dr. Stickel will evaluate the joint's range of motion, check for areas of restriction, and talk through your symptoms and history. Adjustments themselves are quick and precise, often followed by recommendations for stretches or exercises to support the joint between visits.
Many patients notice improved range of motion and reduced pain after just one or two visits, though a full course of care depends on how long the joint has been affected and how it responds to treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an extremity adjustment?
An extremity adjustment is a targeted chiropractic technique applied to a joint outside the spine, such as the knee, shoulder, ankle, or jaw. Rather than adjusting the spine, the provider works directly on the affected joint to restore proper movement and relieve pain caused by restriction or misalignment.
Are extremity adjustments safe?
Extremity adjustments are generally safe when performed by a provider with specific training in the technique. Dr. Stickel holds a certification in extremity adjusting, which means he's completed additional training beyond general chiropractic education specifically focused on treating joints throughout the body.
What types of chiropractic adjustments help with joint pain?
Extremity adjustments are specifically designed for joint pain outside the spine, but they're often paired with other care depending on your situation. For example, patients with shoulder or knee pain related to inflammation may also benefit from shockwave therapy or red light therapy alongside their adjustments.
How do I schedule extremity adjustments near me in Des Moines?
Scheduling is simple. Request an appointment online, and our team will follow up quickly to confirm your visit. We look forward to helping you move and feel better.