Chiropractic care focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. Chiropractors use their hands or various instruments to apply controlled force to joints and muscles to adjust their position and restore mobility. There are over 100 different chiropractic techniques that be used. Choosing the right ones for your condition is key to getting effective treatment.
Diversified technique
The diversified technique is the most commonly used Chiropractor Parramatta approach. It was developed by Palmer College of Chiropractic in the 1930s. The goal of the diversified technique is to restore joint mobility and reduce nerve irritation by applying a specific “high-velocity, low amplitude” adjustment to the affected joint. The chiropractor will have you lie face down on a especially designed-table. They will examine you by hand to find the exact spot for adjustment. Once the target area is located, the chiropractor will apply a quick and controlled thrust to realign the joint. Often a popping sound is heard, which is simply releasing gas from the joint fluid. For spine adjustments, the chiropractor may twist or turn your body to get the right leverage and angle of thrust. While the force used seems intense, diversified techniques shouldn’t cause pain.
Gonstead technique
The Gonstead technique places special emphasis on the meticulous analysis of joint anatomy. Developed by Dr. Clarence S. Gonstead in the 1920s, the technique focuses on delivering adjustments to specific segments of the spine using precise angles and low force. The goal is to be as accurate as possible in correcting joint movement and alignment. Gonstead Chiropractors will thoroughly examine your spine and take X-rays to gain an in-depth of your unique spinal structure before making adjustments. Hands-on analysis called motion and static palpation as well as instrumentation like the NervoScope device may be used to pinpoint areas of subluxation. Adjustments are then applied using the “toggle recoil” method, which involves a quick, targeted thrust along a specific vector. Follow-up care and counseling on proper posture and exercise is an important aspect of Gonstead’s treatment plans to prevent future misalignments.
Thompson technique
The Thompson technique was developed in the 1960s by Dr. J. Clay Thompson to improve spinal biomechanics and eliminate subluxations. It uses a specialized drop table to apply precise adjusting forces to the spine with the patient lying face up. The table has upper spinal and lower pelvic pieces that drop the chiropractor applies a quick, controlled force using a handheld instrument. This is for adjustments along a specific angle and vector without the twisting movements of other techniques. The drop pieces accommodate the gentle force to mobilize the joint while avoiding muscle tension that could resist the adjustment. In addition to the table adjustments, the Thompson technique incorporates manual adjustments and specific body positioning exercises. Patients are often given stabilization equipment like foam blocks or wedges to help maintain proper spinal alignment at home and work. A distinguishing feature of the Thompson technique is the detailed neurological exams done before and after the adjustment to assess muscle strength reflexes, sensation, and coordination to monitor nerve function.
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