A Chiropractor’s primary focus is on the musculoskeletal system—the spine—and it’s correlation with the nervous system. Chiropractors believe that many health systems are a result of spinal misalignments called subluxations. Correcting these subluxations will enable the nervous system to perform in the correct manner and strengthen immunity.
When you decide to visit a chiropractor, there are many different adjusting techniques that he/she may use to correct this subluxation. Here are just a few (of many) techniques that a chiropractor may use:
Spinal Manipulation: The most widely known and used chiropractic procedure. The doctor places his hands on the spinal area that needs to be adjusted and then proceeds to deliver a quick thrust to correct the subluxation. Manipulation resets the position of the spine and its muscular support so that optimal function can be attained. After spinal manipulation, the patient may notice a greater range of motion and reduction or elimination of pain. Extremity adjusting of areas of the hand, wrist, shoulder, elbow, knees, ankles, and feet may also be performed.
Instrument Adjusting: Sometimes instead of the chiropractor using his hands, he will use an instrument to perform the adjustment. There are many different instruments available that chiropractors use but one of the main ones used is called an activator. The chiropractic positions the vertebrae and joints in a manner for healing and pain reduction. The pressure from the activator is normally gentle and painless. This is a wonderful technique to use on elderly patients, babies and others who just do not wish to hear the sound produced from a spinal manipulation.
Pressure Point / Trigger Point Release: Pressure joints are knots in the muscle fibers. The constant contraction in the muscle fibers restricts circulation to the area, depriving it of essential nutrients and causing the build-up of toxins. Pressure points are known to cause headaches, neck, jaw and low back pain. The release works by applying steady pressure to the knotted muscle fiber, which stretches it and increases the circulation to the contracted tissue.
Whatever technique you prefer, find the chiropractor that works best for you!
By: Drs. Lynn and Lorie Hedgepeth
