ADJUSTMENTS and TECHNIQUES

The term "adjustment" refers to the specific manipulation chiropractors apply to vertebrae that have abnormal movement patterns or fail to function normally. The objective of the chiropractic treatment is to reduce the subluxation, which results in an increased range of motion, reduced nerve irritability and improved function.

The adjustment made by the chiropractor consists of a high velocity, short lever arm thrust applied to a vertebra, which is often accompanied by an audible release of gas (joint cavitation). The audible sound is caused by the release of oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide, which releases joint pressure (cavitation). The sensation is usually relieving, though minor discomfort has been reported (that usually lasts for only a short time duration) if the surrounding muscles are in spasm or the patient tenses up during the chiropractic procedure.

There are times when joint cavitation or cracking does not occur and this is often due to either significant muscle splinting or the patient may not be adequately relaxed during the chiropractic procedure. At times like this, it is sometimes best for the chiropractor to apply ice, have the patient rest, or do electrical stimulationand massage prior to attempting spinal manipulation.

Techniques commonly used in our office:

Thompson

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.

A System of Analysis

Early chiropractors noticed that 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 the spine.

Terminal Point Table

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 the table surface, 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.

Popular and Patented

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.

Diversified Technique

At Chiropractic First Wellness Center, we use an adjusting style commonly referred to as "Diversified."

First, an analysis of the spine is performed. This can initially involve a case history and X-ray pictures of the spine.

A special hand arrangement called a "pisiform contact" is used to deliver a specific thrust at the right place and the right time.

Subsequent visits 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 is the result of experience, practice and a thorough understanding of spinal mechanics.

The energy delivered during the thrust may produce a slight "popping" sound from shifting gas and fluids in the joint. This sound may be interesting, but has little meaning as to the value and 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.

Gonstead Technique

Named after its developer, Clarence Gonstead, this approach came from his engineering background. His foundation principle explains how a subluxation pattern in one area of the spine can produce compensatory changes in another.

A Thorough Evaluation

After studying your health history, we conduct a complete examination. This generally includes full spine X-rays and precise analysis so that Subluxation patterns are revealed. Finally, we use our fingertips to "palpate" or feel the location of individual bones and how they may differ from their normal position.

Full Spine Correction

With a complete picture of your spine it's time to make the needed corrections.

To adjust your lower spine and pelvis, we'll have you lie on your side. Subluxations in the middle back are corrected as you assume a comfortable kneeling or front lying position. When you are seated, we can restore the integrity of your spine without twisting or rotating your neck.

Sometimes you'll hear a slight "popping" sound that we call cavitation.

Safe and Effective

The Gonstead Technique is acknowledged as one of the safest systems of evaluating and caring for the spine.

Activator Methods®

We use one of the most popular "low force" chiropractic techniques in the world.

First the Evaluation

We begin by analyzing how well your spine moves. We test how well you turn and bend. While you're lying face down, we'll evaluate the length of your legs. This simple procedure can reveal significant differences in leg lengths.

This time-tested protocol tells us if subluxations exist and their location. It also helps us know when to adjust and when not to adjust.

Activator Instrument: the hand-held instrument delivers a precise, repeatable force at just the right angle.

The Adjusting Instrument

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.

The Follow Up

After your adjustment, we retest to make sure changes have been produced. Testing afterwards helps us deliver high-quality care and high levels of patient satisfaction.