As a chiropractor there are many different techniques that can be used to treat the spine. To list a few of the more prominent ones we use in our office: Pettibon, Thompson, Gonstead, Diversified, and Activator.
Pettibon Technique is a proven spine and posture correction methodology that, along with providing pain relief, restores normal spinal form and function. It is an extensively researched, viable alternative to physical therapy and in many cases surgery.
Thompson Technique is performed on a drop table, and uses your own body weight to exert force on a drop piece. Varying amounts of pressure of the joints set a drop piece in motion, which in turn affects the muscles tissues and joints.
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Gonstead Technique is to be as specific, precise and accurate as possible, addressing only the problem areas (areas of subluxation). Great care is taken to ensure a bio-mechanically correct position and precise thrust to provide the most accurate and painless adjustment possible. It is the goal of your Gonstead doctor to restore and maintain optimal health by locating and correcting any interference to the nervous system caused by vertebral subluxation.
Diversified Technique the primary treatment technique used by most Doctors of Chiropractic.
Activator Instrument is the tool more doctors choose to deliver low-force chiropractic adjustments. This unique hand-held instrument is designed to give patients a specific and gentle adjustment (children or elderly).
Spinal Decompression
A spinal decompression therapy system consists of a split table that is programmed by a computer to provide cycling distractive forces along the axis of the lumbar spine. The intensity of intermittent force is increased gradually to help prevent muscles from contracting in reaction to being stretched. With proper positioning, traction can also be applied to an isolated spinal disc.
Massage Therapy
Massage benefits are varied and far-reaching. As an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, massage therapy has also proven beneficial for many chronic conditions, including low back pain, arthritis, bursitis, fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, immunity suppression, infertility, smoking cessation, depression, and more. And, as many millions will attest, massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living that can lead to disease and illness.
Kinesiotape
Kinesio Taping gives support and stability to your joints and muscles without affecting circulation and range of motion. It is also used for Preventive Maintenance, Edema, and Pain Management. Kinesio Taping is a technique based on the body’s own natural healing process. This Kinesio Taping exhibits its efficacy through the activation of neurological and circulatory systems. This method basically stems from the science of Kinesiology, hence the name “Kinesio”. Muscles are not only attributed to the movements of the body but also control the circulation of venous and lymph flows, body temperature, etc. Therefore, the failure of the muscles to function properly induces various kinds of symptoms.
Electric Stimulation
Electrical stimulation uses an electrical current to cause a single muscle or a group of muscles to contract. By placing electrodes on the skin in various locations the physical therapist can recruit the appropriate muscle fibers. Contracting the muscle via electrical stimulation helps strengthen the affected muscle. The physical therapist can change the current setting to allow for a forceful or gentle muscle contraction. Along with increasing muscle strength, the contraction of the muscle also promotes blood supply to the area that assists in healing.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound machine utilize high or low frequency sound waves. These sound waves are transmitted to the surrounding tissue and vasculature. They penetrate the muscles to cause deep tissue/muscle warming. This promotes tissue relaxation and therefore is useful in treating muscle tightness and spasms. The warming effect of the sound waves also cause vessel vasodilatation and increase circulation to the area that assists in healing.
