Chiropractic Adjusting Techniques
Diversified Technique
A special hand arrangement called a “pisiform contact” is used to deliver a specific thrust at the right place and the right time. This technique may include motion palpation, with the chiropractor feeling the spinal joints move as you turn and bend. Or, a leg check may be performed, to uncover an imbalance in the neck or lower spine.
With the malposition of one or more spinal bones identified, a specific manual thrust is administered. The direction, speed, depth and angle that are used are the result of years of experience, practice and a thorough understanding of spinal mechanics. The energy delivered during the thrust may produce a slight “popping” sound from the shifting of gas and fluids in the joint. This sound may be interesting, but is not a guide as to the value or effectiveness of the adjustment. While improving spinal biomechanics can reduce nervous system interferences, virtually all joints of the body can be adjusted to help restore proper range of motion.
Activator Methods®
We use one of the most popular “low force” chiropractic techniques in the world. The Activator Methods® Adjusting Instrument is a handheld spring-loaded tool that delivers a consistent low-force, high-speed thrust. Because it’s many times faster than adjustments delivered by hand, the body rarely tightens to resist, making adjustments comfortable and effective. It’s also helpful for adjusting elbows, wrists, knees and other joints of the body.
Thompson Technique
The Thompson Technique, developed by Dr. J. Clay Thompson, has evolved into a system of analysis and a way of adjusting the full spine. The combination produces precise adjustments and high levels of patient comfort. Early chiropractors noticed that vertebral subluxations would produce the appearance of a short, or contracted leg. Using a protocol of comparing leg lengths while the patient turned their head, helped determine whether the subluxation was in the upper, middle or lower back.
After gently lowering you to a prone position, individual drop pieces give way, reducing the amount of energy needed to adjust your spine.
What patients often notice first is our segmental “drop” table. After stepping onto the platform, the table gently lowers you into a horizontal position. This helps preserve any leg length inequality. Individual cushions or “drop pieces” located along our table surface support each area of your spine until the thrust is delivered. Then, each drop-piece gently gives way, reducing the amount of energy needed to move a specific spinal segment. So unique is this approach, Dr. Thompson was granted a patent in 1955. Since then, because of its precision and patient results, it is a technique used around the world.
If you’ve been to a chiropractor before and prefer to be adjusted in a particular way, please let Dr. Kim know. We want you to relax, enjoy and fully benefit from your chiropractic care in this office.