We employ a wide range of proven techniques for each individual case. Below, you’ll find a brief explanation of the popular chiropractic techniques we use at our practice.
Gonstead Technique/Diversified Technique
These techniques are the most commonly used adjustment technique by chiropractors. Diversified differentiates from other techniques in that its objective is to restore proper movement and alignment of spine and joint dysfunction. A hands-on approach, Diversified utilizes no instruments and is the technique most familiar to patients.
Thompson Drop Technique/Table
This technique makes use of specialized drop-piece mechanisms in the table to assist the adjustment. Individual cushions or “drop pieces” located along the table support each area of the spine until the thrust is given. Then, each drop-piece gently gives way, reducing the pressure needed to move a specific spinal segment.
Flexion/Distraction Technique/Table
This is a non-invasive and effective means of treating low back pain and more specifically disc herniations, bulges, and spinal stenosis; and it also stretches the musculature. The patient is placed face down, and then the table is moved into flexion to create negative pressure in the disc. This is necessary to allow for the disc bulge/herniation to regress so as to help restore proper joint function, reduce inflammation and pain, and allow for better movement patterns.
Activator Technique
Developed by Arlan W. Fuhr, D.C., the Activator technique is a gentle, low-force approach to chiropractic care. A small hand-held instrument is used to deliver a light and measured force to correct misalignment.
ArthroStim
By utilizing controlled, incremental thrusts, the ArthroStim instrument stimulates specific neural receptors (mechanoreceptors and proprioreceptors) without activating undesirable pain receptors. Use of the ArthroStim instrument enables chiropractors to maintain the effectiveness of the adjustment while reducing the amount of force that is applied.
Trigger Point
The primary purpose of Trigger Point Therapy is to reduce the pain that results from hypersensitive muscles. Trigger points are identified by gently pressing on the surface of the skin, sensing the texture of the underlying muscle.
A trigger point is like a knot the size of a pea, buried deep in the muscle tissue. It is made up of lactic acid, a normal byproduct of muscular activity, which sometimes gets trapped in the muscle from physical, chemical or emotional stress. Chiropractic along with massage therapy is an excellent approach to release painful trigger points.
Additional therapies
Our office may administer many physical therapy modalities, including ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation, diathermy and hot paraffin to complement our other techniques.