December 5, 2023
Are you suffering from neck or back pain? Chiropractic adjustments offer a natural, drug-free solution to ease discomfort, improve mobility, and boost nervous system performance.
Our experienced Clearwater chiropractors break down the seven most common types of chiropractic adjustments and their benefits here.
Types of Chiropractic Adjustments
- Diversified Technique
- Gonstead Adjustment
- Activator Treatment
- Thompson Technique
- Flexion-Distraction Treatment
- Spinal Mobilization
- Soft Tissue Therapy
This is the most widely used technique for chiropractors, with 96% of professionals applying it to 70% of their patients. Using rapid thrusts on different spine sections, the diversified approach effectively relieves tension and increases circulation while restoring your vertebrae to proper alignment.
Best for: This treatment is ideal for patients with misaligned joints, lumbar disc herniation, and neck and back pain.
Another common technique, this hands-on approach, targets specific issues along the spine. Utilizing X-rays to pinpoint particular areas of discomfort, your chiropractor carefully readjusts your spine. These adjustments are accurate and painless, thanks to the information provided by the X-ray. This treatment boasts a quick recovery with little risk for the patient.
Best for: The Gonstead technique is most beneficial for patients with interferences with their nervous system or chronic back pain from vertebral subluxation.
The activator technique employs a hand-held “Activator Adjusting Instrument” that produces consistent, low-force, high-speed impacts. Its goal is to have enough force to move the vertebrae without causing injury. The high speed allows manipulation before the patient tenses up and resists treatment.
Best for: This softer approach is helpful for patients with migraines, neck pain, and lower back pain.
Also referred to as the “drop technique,” this method uses a unique table that descends. At the same time, your chiropractor applies pressure to the spine. This mechanism only moves a fraction of an inch. Patients describe this motion as a “vibration” instead of a drop. It loosens the spine and contributes to more comfort, stability, and gentler adjustments.
Best for: The Thompson technique provides excellent results to patients looking to reduce stress on the lower spine, restore nerve function, relieve pain, and improve sleep quality.
Similar to the prior technique, this treatment utilizes a different massage table to decompress the spine. This table descends and shifts from side to side in conjunction with gentle chiropractic manipulation. Gravity enhances the effects of your treatment and opens the door to a more comfortable and pain-free adjustment.
This technique is gentle enough to be used after spinal surgery, making it an excellent option for patients unable to receive other forms of therapy.
Best for: The Flexion-Distraction method best relieves stiffness, promotes disc health, improves posture, and manages lower back pain.
Also commonly referred to as “manual therapy” and “spinal manipulation,” this technique uses very similar principles to the previously mentioned diversified technique. Your practitioner, using thrusting motions, manually readjusts your spine. However, this method employs significantly less force and relies on stretching and loosening the back.
Best for: Spinal mobilization is most effective with patients experiencing pressure on their joints, increased inflammation, or nerve dysfunction.
This treatment focuses on the body’s soft tissues instead of the spine. It’s a complex clinical massage that releases toxins and improves circulation. Focusing on the ligaments, tendons, and muscles relieves discomfort attributed to chronic pain, muscle overuse, and general stress.
Best for: Soft tissue therapy is best for those who engage in strenuous sports or manual labor activities. It increases mobility and corrects muscular imbalances.
Contact Our Experienced Clearwater Chiropractors Today
Call 727-447-4647 or contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover the chiropractic adjustment technique best suited to your needs.
About the Authors: With four decades of combined experience, Dr. Jere Jarrett and Dr. Philip Toft are highly educated and experienced chiropractors who serve Clearwater, FL, and the surrounding areas. They take a “whole-body” approach to chiropractic care, looking for the underlying cause of pain and discomfort instead of treating symptoms. Call 727-447-4647 to schedule an appointment.