I recently wrote about the 5 most common adjustment types we use at Express Chiropractic of Frisco.  I figured I would recap those adjustment methods in one easy to access blog post.

5 Most Common Adjustment Types We Use at Express Chiropractic of Frisco

(Click the technique heading to read even more about what I  previously wrote about each individual technique).

1. Diversified Technique

When most people think of how a chiropractor adjusts, Diversified is probably what they think of.  Diversified technique is a hands-on approach to getting motion back into a joint in which there is dysfunction.  When a joint becomes stuck or is not moving properly it may alter the surrounding structures.  This includes the muscles, tendons, discs, nerves, etc.  When this occurs it can lead to symptoms.  The most common symptoms due to joint dysfunction include pain (low back, neck, mid-back), numbness or tingling, headache, poor posture, stiffness, and tightness.

The adjustment works by applying a high velocity, low amplitude (HVLA) thrust to the stuck area.  By releasing the tension in the area it can help the joint return to normal function.  This may also reduce symptoms.

Many times you may hear an audible release or a pop with this type of adjustment.  This is due to a release of gas from the joint structure almost like a suction cup.  There is no bones rubbing together or anything like that.  If that were the case you would be in excruciating pain.

Hands-on adjusting is the most common type of adjustment that I perform at Express Chiropractic of Frisco.

2. Arthrostim Adjusting

Arthrostime adjusting uses a pneumatic adjusting instrument which pulsates very quickly.  By targeting the stuck spinal bones the Arthrostim stimulates the area to allow for proper motion.  It also affects the other surrounding structures including muscles, scar tissue, and other soft tissues in the area.  By taking pressure off and allowing for movement it can help facilitate healing.

I tend to use the Arthrostim on most of my patients, especially in the beginning. Many times people are coming in due to injury.  The Arthrostim allows me to get movement in the affected area, but also not overdoing it.  Listen, you are already usually sore, it is not worth it to try to fix it in one visit.  Most of the time it takes several visits and the Arthrostim is a great start to getting movement restored in your spine.

I often use the Arthrostim in combination with hands-on adjusting.  In my opinion, it allows me to get your spine its needed movement most efficiently and with the least amount of force.  Plus as a bonus, most people love the way it feels!

3. Drop-Table Technique

Drop table technique is a great method to help adjust the lower back (lumbosacral spine).  This type of adjustment uses a specialized chiropractic table and gravity to help unlock and provide movement into the low back joints.  Whether the affected area is the lumbar spine, sacrum, SI joints, or the hips, using the drop table can help improve motion.

The drop table has special components which cause a piece of the table to lift up.  I then move the joint in its necessary direction and put force into the joint.  The table then “breaks away” which increases the speed by using gravity allowing for joint motion.  The table makes a noise, but there is rarely an audible release from the joint itself.

This technique works great on acute injuries and when the low back joints and muscles are locked up pretty good.

4. Flexion-Distraction Technique

Flexion-Distraction or “F&D” is a technique that again uses the table itself in a specific manner.  The feet are strapped into the table (to provide traction), forward flexion (towards the ground), and lateral rotation (side to side) movements.  When using F&D I am in control of the movements so as much or as little pressure is applied.

This helps to open the discs (mostly in the lower back) and stretch out the spine and surrounding musculature.  So this technique is most commonly applied when there is suspected disc involvement.

5. Activator Technique

The Activator is a highly researched, widely utilized adjusting instrument.  Often called the “clicker,” “stapler,” or many other names.  It gets its nicknames due to the sound it makes.

The Activator is a great instrument to use when patients have acute injuries or don’t like the hands-on type of adjusting.  The Activator provides a specific impulse adjustment at the stuck vertebrae or joint.

I myself am not certified in the actual specific Activator technique, but rather use the instrument like I would my hands.  I find the stuck joint and instead of adjusting with forces applied through my hands I use the Activator on the said area.

As with the other 5 most common adjustment types we use at Express Chiropractic of Frisco we tend to get excellent results.

Every Adjustment is Different

One thing to know is that in our office we use a combination of the 5 most common adjustment types.  You may get them all, a couple, or something completely different.  I palpate and adjust every patient based on what I think they need and will work best for their spine and their condition(s).

As with anything in our office communication is key.  If there is a technique you prefer or do not like, please just let us know!!! You will not hurt my feelings.  Remember, you are the patient and you have the final say in your care.  I will let you know my recommendations and my thoughts but please always know your voice is heard and extremely important in our office.  My only goal is to provide you with the best chiropractic wellness care that you need and deserve.

Express Chiropractic of Frisco

If you have any questions about the 5 most common adjustment types let us know.

If you are a new patient looking for a chiropractor in Frisco, Plano, McKinney, The Colony, or anywhere else close by let us know.  You can give us a call at (469) 362-5711, email us at info@expresschiropracticfrisco.com, or even easier just pop on into our office.

An appointment is never necessary and most of the time we can see you the same day!

We look forward to seeing you soon and helping you with all of your chiropractic health and wellness needs!