There are several types of chiropractic adjustments. Some chiropractors use their hands, while others have specialized tools to help them perform spinal manipulations. The diversified technique uses quick thrusts, often producing a popping noise. It has three main purposes: restore spinal alignment, repair joint dysfunction, and provide proper movement and mobility.
Gonstead Technique
The Gonstead method uses the principles of mechanics to analyze and adjust the spine. Rather than using a shotgun approach to care in which all spine levels are adjusted, each area with misalignment or motion disturbance is specifically addressed. It allows for better correction of each subluxation and balance of function within the body.
Like Brad Kern, your chiropractor will use full spine X-ray analysis to evaluate your spinal structure. It lets them see your vertebrae, joints and discs in detail, along with any indication of disease or fracture. They will also be able to identify any areas of misalignment and assess your posture and musculoskeletal balance.
A Gonstead practitioner will then deliver any necessary adjustments. These are meticulously given to guarantee a mechanically proper position and precise thrust. It results in a very effective adjustment that is not painful. A good Gonstead chiropractor will tell you that they are only interested in locating and correcting the problem areas of your spine, leaving the rest alone.
Diversified Technique
The diversified technique is a common spinal manipulation method chiropractors use to treat musculoskeletal issues. It is a hands-on approach to spinal adjustment that uses a quick thrust to adjust the spine and reduce joint dysfunction. This chiropractic adjustment is often accompanied by a clicking or popping sound caused by changes in pressure within the joints called cavitation. This chiropractic treatment can help treat neck pain, back pain, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, and other spinal misalignments. It is also used to relieve the pain and discomfort of pregnancy by decompressing the spine, reducing spinal compression and helping with rib articulation. This chiropractic method is also helpful in relieving a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including chronic headaches and migraines. A study published in Europe PMC found that using extension-compression traction combined with a Diversified technique can help improve pregnant women’s frequency, duration and severity of migraines.
Thompson Drop-Table Technique
Developed in the 1950s, the Thompson Technique utilizes an adjusting table with segments that can drop downward. It helps to magnify the thrust and reduce the amount of force and pressure required for a chiropractic adjustment. This adjustment also allows the chiropractor to work on areas of your spine faster and more easily. It is one of the most common techniques used for wellness care during pregnancy and can aid in reducing numbness, decreasing headaches and improving digestive functions. This adjustment style is developed by accident and uses a special table with drops to help the chiropractor perform spinal manipulation. When the chiropractor uses a thrust, sections of the customized table have the potential to fall a mere fraction of an inch. It allows gravity to assist in the manual adjusting and provides a lighter adjustment than other spinal manipulation methods that require twisting positions.
Flexion-Distraction Technique
Flexion-distraction therapy is carried out on a divided table that moves as your chiropractor slowly adjusts your spine. When a piece of the treatment table drops or moves, the gentle manipulations combined with the table’s movements stretch and decompress your spine, reducing back, leg, neck, and arm discomfort. Your spine is realigned by gravity, and the treatment results are enhanced. Chiropractor Dr. James Cox developed This spinal manipulation technique in the 1960s, replacing fast movements with a gradual, rhythmic, and automated table movement. Researchers have found that flexion-distraction techniques can reduce intradiscal pressure by as much as 28% and increase the spinal canal area by up to 39%. It effectively treats lumbar spinal stenosis, ankylosing spondylitis, sciatica, spondylolisthesis, sprains, and strains. It can also help to manage sacroiliac syndrome and muscular spasms.
