ADJUSTING TECHNIQUES

• Diversified technique: This technique is the form of high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust that is traditionally associated with chiropractic manual adjustments. For this method, chiropractors apply a short (low-amplitude), quick (high-velocity) thrust over restricted joints (one at a time) with the goal of restoring normal range of motion in the joint. The patient’s body is positioned in specific ways to optimize the adjustment of the spine.

​

• Activator Method: This method uses a small, hand-held instrument called the Activator Instrument to deliver a gentle impulse force to the spine with the goal of restoring motion to the targeted spinal vertebra or joint.  The Activator Method® is one of the most widely researched chiropractic techniques and the only instrument adjusting technique with clinical trials to support its efficacy.

​

• Thompson (Drop-piece) Technique: With this technique, the patient lays on the table face down. The pneumatically-driven table is propped up in the area that is receiving the adjustment.  With assistance of the chiropractor, the segment of the table then “drops” slightly (about an inch) to lower the section corresponding to the spinal region being adjusted. This facilitates the adjustment and carries the joint through its normal range of motion, allowing full correction of the segment while applying less torque and force than would be needed without the special drop-table.

​

• Webster Technique:  This technique is used specifically for pregnant women.  It is a specific sacral adjustment to help facilitate the mother's pelvic alignment and nerve system function. This in turn balances pelvic muscles and ligaments, reduces torsion to the uterus. This may offer a greater potential for optimal fetal positioning.

 

SOFT TISSUE TECHNIQUES

• Myofascial release:  a highly specialized stretching technique used to aid the adjustment in restoring joints' range of motion by focusing on fascia, a type of connective tissue that covers organs, muscles, and other soft internal structures. When these structures become tightened and shortened, they do not allow for normal joint function. Therefore, the doctor will very often address the soft tissues along with the joints.

​

• Trigger Point Therapy: a trigger point or knot in the muscle, often develops alongside joint and neurologic problems. When a muscle stops moving through its normal range of motion, a knot may form where the normal waste created by the muscle burning energy begins to build up instead of being flushed away. These trigger points may be latent or active. A latent trigger point only hurts in the area that it has formed. An active trigger point refers pain, numbness or tingling into another area. Trigger point therapy is aimed directly at these trigger points through direct and deep pressure or muscle stripping.

​

• Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (aka Graston Technique):  Sometimes, injury or repetitive stress creates fascial restrictions (think scar tissue from those stitches you once had), within the muscle, tendons or ligaments. These restrictions need a more specific and assisted technique. To address these areas, the doctors may use instruments that are designed to effectively break down fascial restrictions and scar tissue. This is an excellent technique that has prevented many risky or ineffective surgeries.