Does an adjustment hurt? Are there any negative side effects?

Adjustments should not hurt when performed by a trained chiropractor in a normal individual.  At times, muscular tightness and trigger points can make an adjustment slightly uncomfortable, but most people are more startled by the “popping” and “cracking” noise than the feeling of an adjustment.

If there are any side effects at all, the most common side effect from an adjustment would be slight soreness the day or two following the adjustment.  This usually subsides after the first adjustment, and will feel like the soreness you have after a good workout.