Which Chiropractic Technique Is Best for You?

Chiropractic adjustments are a natural, non-invasive treatment for pain. Chiropractors use specific techniques to treat certain types of problems. By looking at treatment options, you can discover which chiropractic technique is best for you.

Active Release Technique

ART Active Release Technique is a soft tissue method that focuses on relieving tissue tension via the removal of fibrosis or adhesions. These can develop in tissues as a result of overload from repetitive use and lead to muscular weakness, numbness, aching, tingling, and burning sensations.

The main purpose of ART is to restore the motion of all soft tissue, release entrapped nerves and lymphatics, and re-establish soft tissue resilience and function.

Activator Method

Chiropractors use a handheld device called an “activator” to administer a gentle impulse to the spine. This is an excellent technique for patients who have low bone density or painful muscle spasms or prefer a light-force type of adjustment. The device adjusts the nervous system and neuromuscular imbalances.

Patients hear the click of the activator during this method. Please note that there is no force delivered during this adjustment except for the instrument. 

Spinal Manipulation

People often associate chiropractic care with spinal manipulation. The goal of this method is to relieve joint pressure, reduce inflammation, improve nerve function, and restore overall function.

People seek this treatment to help with acute and chronic low-back pain, neck pain, and shoulder discomfort. Pain and discomfort affect sleeping, walking, standing, and household chores. It’s important to restore function.

Chiropractors use their hands or a device to apply a controlled thrust to a joint in your spine. They also use massages and exercise to treat discomfort.

Flexion Distraction

If you have a herniated disc or another symptomatic disc injury, flexion distraction is the best chiropractic technique for you. The technique uses a special table to distract and flex your spine in a gentle, rhythmic motion.

While lying on your stomach, your legs will pump back and forth at a slow, constant speed to improve your range of motion and decrease nerve irritation. The adjustment is pain-free and the most comfortable option for patients with recent injuries or extra sensitivity.

Diversified Technique

The diversified adjustment is a quick, short thrust to the spine. The goal is to restore spinal alignment, repair joint dysfunction, and ensure proper mobility. Chiropractors assess patients’ bodies to discover which joints don’t move properly. Then, they perform the technique to restore function.

The technique includes twisting and cavitations to the spine. Typically, patients hear a popping noise during the adjustment. You might assume it’s bones cracking, but the noise is air moving within the joint capsule into the parapsychological space to reset the musculoskeletal system.

Webster Technique

Chiropractic care in pregnancy is vital to the normal physiological function of both the mother and baby throughout pregnancy and birth. The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic sacral analysis and diversified adjustment. The goal is to reduce the effects of sacral subluxation and SI joint dysfunction.

Pregnant women with a history of breech baby deliveries may benefit from this technique. It involves massaging soft tissues, abdomen muscles, and ligaments surrounding the uterus to create more space around the pelvis. It also helps babies move into an optimal position.