Short answer: chiropractic care at our clinic should not be painful. Every adjustment is made with the Arthrostim, a handheld instrument, so there is no cracking, twisting or traditional manipulation. Most patients feel light pressure and a small, quick tap. If an area is already sore, you may feel some tenderness, and our chiropractors adjust the approach to your comfort.
What does an adjustment feel like?
Many people expect the loud “pop” they associate with chiropractors. At Family Health Chiropractic Clinic, Dr Kelvin Ng and Dr Ashley Liew do not use traditional manipulation, so you will not be twisted or cracked. Instead, each adjustment is a light, controlled impulse delivered with the Arthrostim to a specific spot on the spine or a joint.
How it feels also depends on the area. A stiff mid-back often feels like a gentle release. A tender neck, for example from long hours at a desk, may feel sore to the touch first, so your chiropractor will start lightly and only continue if you are comfortable.
What is the Arthrostim?

The Arthrostim is a handheld adjusting instrument. Instead of a manual thrust, it delivers a quick, light, controlled impulse to a specific point. Because the movement is small and directed, it suits many people who are nervous about their neck or back, have sensitive joints, or simply prefer a no-cracking approach.
It is the only way we adjust. Your chiropractor will examine you first and explain what he plans to do before the first adjustment.
Will I be sore afterwards?
Some patients feel mild stiffness or achiness for a day or so after the first visit, similar to the feeling after exercise. This usually settles quickly. Tell your chiropractor if soreness lasts longer or increases, so he can adjust the care plan. Drinking water, gentle walking and avoiding heavy lifting that evening are sensible after a first visit.
What if I am nervous about my neck?
That is common, and it is one reason many patients choose an instrument-based approach. Your chiropractor will take your history, examine you, and explain each step. You can ask questions or stop at any time. If your main concern is neck pain or stiffness, see our guide to neck pain and chiropractic in Singapore or, if you have been told you have age-related changes in the neck, cervical spondylosis and chiropractic care.
Is it suitable for children, pregnancy and older adults?
Light, controlled adjustments are used across different stages of life. Read more about chiropractic for children and chiropractic during pregnancy. Tell your chiropractor about any medical condition, medication or recent injury so he can plan your care safely.
Chiropractor or physiotherapist: who should you see?
Both help with musculoskeletal pain, and they work in different ways. Our comparison of a chiropractor vs physiotherapist in Singapore explains how to choose based on your symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Does chiropractic hurt?
Most people feel light pressure rather than pain. At Family Health Chiropractic Clinic, every adjustment is made with the Arthrostim instrument, with no traditional manipulation. If an area is already sore, you may feel some tenderness, and your chiropractor can adjust the technique to your comfort.
Will my back or neck be cracked or twisted?
No. We do not use traditional manipulation or manual cracking. Adjustments are delivered with the Arthrostim, a handheld instrument that gives a light, controlled impulse.
What is the Arthrostim?
The Arthrostim is a handheld chiropractic adjusting instrument. It delivers a quick, light, controlled impulse to a specific spot, instead of a manual thrust or twist.
Is soreness after a visit normal?
Mild stiffness or achiness for a day or so can happen after a first visit, similar to the feeling after exercise. Tell your chiropractor if it lasts longer or increases.
How much does a chiropractic visit cost in Singapore?
Fees are per visit, with no packages and no lock-in. See our chiropractic fees page for current rates.
Ready to see for yourself? We are 2 minutes from Somerset MRT at 111 Somerset Road, #08-03, TripleOne Somerset. Call or WhatsApp us on +65 6336 7714. Read what to expect at your first visit, or see how to find us near Somerset MRT.
This article is general information and does not replace an examination. If you have severe pain, numbness, weakness, or symptoms after a fall or accident, seek medical advice promptly.