A benefit of visiting a chiropractor for care is their drug-free, non-invasive approach to aligning your body to promote wellness. However, you may visit a chiropractor and feel a bit confused about what they are doing. Here are some of the techniques that they use to improve your musculoskeletal system.
Gonstead Technique
One of the first things your chiropractor may do is take an X-ray of the problem area they will attempt to address. This is to help them use the Gonstead technique, which is to give precision adjustments to fix misalignments. The doctor wants to know exactly what is going on with your spinal systems before they even touch you, which can really help with disc-related pain in the pain that can be targeted to a single spinal disc. You will be amazed at what can be done by first getting an X-ray.
Diversified Technique
A common technique used by chiropractors is the diversified technique. It will involve making manual adjustments to your joints and spine, with the chiropractor using quick thrusts to put everything back into the proper alignment. It can be used to address patients that have a concern about a very specific area and want relief that can help improve range of motion or mobility.
Activator Method
Chiropractors do not always work with their hands. They may decide to use the activator method, which involves a handheld instrument known as an activator. They will deliver gentle and precise adjustments to your joints and spine with controlled impulses, which will help get everything back into proper alignment. It's a technique used for patients that may find the diversified technique too rough for them and want the adjustments to really be targeted to certain areas.
Thompson Technique
Ever had a chiropractor that wants you to lay down on a certain type of table that has sections that can drop lower? They are likely using the Thompson technique. It involves having a patient lay face down on the specialized table, and then thrusts are applied to targeted areas. Sections of the table can then drop down slightly so the chiropractor doesn't have to worry about the body being so rigid during the procedure.
Con-Flexion Distraction
Patients with sciatica and herniated discs may have con-flexion distraction techniques used on them. It's another technique that uses a special table to gently decompress and stretch the spine with specific movements. The goal is to alleviate pressure on the patient's spinal nerves, reduce overall pain, and help the spine function better.
Contact a local chiropractor to learn more.
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