Know More About the Common Chiropractic Techniques

There are more than 100 techniques that chiropractors use to rehabilitate patients’ spines. Some of them are gentle, while others apply sudden pressure to correct spinal issues. Spinal manipulation therapy treats a range of issues, including neck, back, shoulder, and headaches.

Before seeking treatment, you should understand the various chiropractic adjustment techniques that chiropractors near you use and how they perform each one of them.

The various chiropractic adjustment methods include:

Direct Thrust Technique

Direct thrust or diversified technique is one of the oldest and most popular chiropractic adjustment methods that chiropractors use. When performing this procedure, a chiropractor applies a rapid thrust or impulse to align your spine. The technique involves taking a part of your spine like your thoracic vertebrae and moving it to the side rapidly.

The direct thrust manipulation technique enhances the range of motion that might have been caused by misaligned joints and bones. Due to the high-velocity force that your chiropractor applies, it is considered to be dangerous. With that, you should consider a chiropractor who is highly trained and experienced. Also, do not try it on your own.

Logan Adjustment Technique

Logan chiropractic adjustment technique involves applying pressure on a leverage bone around your sacrum. Your chiropractor will only apply gentle pressure, helping in treating your back muscles. The procedure also helps in realigning spinal bones, reduce migraines, headaches, and ease the tension around your body.

Your chiropractor will hold the pressure for a few minutes as his or her other hand rubs your back to relieve tension. Once he or she is done, the entire spine moves to a balance. The technique is gentle but very effective.

Gonstead Adjustment Technique

Chiropractors use this method to diagnose and fix specific issues such as long-term back pain while applying hands-on techniques. First, your chiropractor carries out analysis using thermographic instrumentation, postural observation, x-ray assessment, and digital palpation techniques.

The technique only works for specific adjustment requirements. The technique’s particular nature of adjustment makes the procedure safe and speeds up recovery.

Soft Tissue Therapy

Soft tissue therapy involves massage that focuses on the muscles rather than the spine itself. The soft tissue massage aids the release of toxins, thus improving blood circulation.

During this procedure, chiropractors target muscles, connective tissue, fascia, tendons, ligaments, and joints. The process will alleviate discomfort on the soft tissue, caused by chronic pain and occupational stress.

Soft tissue therapy technique poses some benefits such as:

• Enhanced feeling of well-being
• Improved mobility and muscle flexibility
• Stress relief
• Correction of muscular imbalances
• Reduced risks of injury

Activator Method

When performing this chiropractic adjustment technique in Manhattan, KS, chiropractors use a spring-loaded instrument to deliver gentle impulses on your spine. The impulses aim to restore motion on the target vertebrae and joints.

The device is advantageous since it is speedy.  Due to the speed, your muscles are not likely to tense in response or resist the treatment. Therefore, it makes the treatment effective.

Also, the force your chiropractor applies on the spine does not cause any additional bending moment or torque.

Flexion-Distraction Method

Flexion-distraction technique is a less popular method of treating your spine. The procedure involves adjusting your cranium and gently stretching your back, thus aligning the spine to its normal position. Chiropractors use the technique to treat joint pains on the facet, backaches, and neck pains.

Thompson Technique

During this procedure, your chiropractor uses a drop table to provide low amplitude and high-velocity adjustments. The technique offers less forceful spinal adjustments reducing wear and tear on your body.

Chiropractors use this technique for the following:

• Pediatric wellness
• Care during pregnancy
• Inward spinal curvature
• Chronic back pains

Keeping Your Spine Healthy

For a healthy spine, Dr. Dean Dierksen, who is also our founder at Premier Chiropractic and Wellness, recommends the following:

• Let your spine rest while sleeping by ensuring you use a firm mattress
• While sleeping, keep your spine aligned naturally
• Your back muscles need to be exercised to strengthen the core
• Wear comfortable shoes that support your spine
• Enjoy the benefits of regular massage
• Use ergonomic equipment in your workspace especially your office

To avoid back pains, you can also limit your total sitting time. Sometimes, after a long meeting, you can choose to take a walk before resuming your work.