Every year, chiropractors treat over 35 million Americans (adults and children). As on of the top primary care doctors, aside from medical doctors and dentists, it’s no surprise that chiropractors are becoming increasingly more popular. Indeed, more Americans are seeking alternative, more sustainable health and wellness options to improve their health and live a better life without pain, discomfort, and illness. Keep reading to learn more about the most common types of chiropractic adjustments offered at chiropractic offices.

1. Activator Technique

This chiropractic technique uses a small handheld, spring-loaded device known as the ‘Activator.’ Chiropractors use the activator to administer gentle impulses to the vertebral segments of the spine or extremities (i.e. hand or foot). These impulses feel like a light thumping sensation. This tool helps adjust the tone of the nervous system and helps treat various conditions, such as headaches, migraines, and lower back pain.

2. Diversified Technique

The diversified technique is considered the most commonly used technique among the chiropractic community. This technique uses a hands-on thrust with extreme precision approach, which feels similar to the Gonstead technique mentioned below. Indeed, this allows chiropractors to gently restore spine alignment and boost a patient’s range of motion.

3. Flexion Distraction

The Flexion Distraction technique uses a special table that distracts and flexes the spine in a gentle, safe rhythmic motion. Chiropractors commonly use this technique to treat patients with symptomatic disc injuries due to back or leg pain, as well as those with facet joint pain and scoliosis. Indeed, this adjustment is gentle, safe, and pain-free, making it a good option for those with recent injuries or sensitivities to other types of adjustments. Another benefit of flexion distraction is that it helps reduce spinal nerve pressure, which typically causes pain or discomfort.

4. Gonstead Technique

The Gonstead technique is designed to realign the spine and improve a patient’s range of motion. Chiropractors use this hands-on, precise approach to adjust the patient’s lower back or pelvis, while the patient lays on their side. This technique helps to realign joints, decrease pain and discomfort, and boost mobility.

5. Spinal Manipulation (or Spinal Mobilization)

Used by both chiropractors and physical therapists, this manual therapy technique is designed to relieve pressure on joints, decrease inflammation, and improve nerve function. Spinal manipulation or mobilization uses gentle and safe thrusting motions and stretching, which help activate a patient’s joints and improve their overall range of motion.

6. Thompson Drop-Table Technique

The Thompson Drop-Table Technique uses a special table made of padded platforms that have drop mechanisms. These mechanisms allow the patient to be “dropped” a fraction of an inch while the chiropractor administers a quick, but gentle thrust. This gentle dropping motion feels like a light vibration, making it comfortable for patients.

We hope you enjoyed this week’s article and that you learned something new about the diverse range of chiropractic adjustments available to patients. This variety of care allows chiropractors to provide a customized health and wellness plan for each patient. Contact Brand Chiro today to learn how we can help provide all of your digital needs for your new or existing chiropractic office.