Chiropractic Techniques
The needs of each patient are identified during their initial visit and are re-evaluated periodically to assess the specific treatment regimen that would address their concerns. A variety of techniques are utilized by our group and some descriptions are included below.
Diversified
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A very common technique of chiropractic manipulation where a table or block facilitates the delivery of a high—velocity, low-amplitude thrust. The thrust is delivered by hand and usually results in a cavitation (popping noise) of the joint. This technique is applicable to many of the joints and is probably most familiar to patients. In particular, diversified is used to address biomechanical failures of the spine by correcting the associated subluxation. This same technique is also applicable to extremity joints, and is therefore a very beneficial intervention for treating sport injuries as well as other injuries.
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Gonstead
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This chiropractic technique differs from the Diversified technique in the way force is applied. It is performed by hand, and usually results in joint cavitation. X-ray analysis, palpation, and temperature gradient studies may be used in clinical decision-making (i.e., what segment(s) to adjust).
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Thompson
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A variation of the Diversified technique that uses a special table with several segments called drop pieces. These segments can be cocked up a fraction of an inch, so when the thrust is delivered, the table will drop this fraction of an inch. The drop allows distraction (opening) of the joint thereby assisting the thrust, while minimizing the force required for the adjustment. Cavitation of the joint may or may not occur.
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Extremity Manipulating / Adjusting
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The application of chiropractic manipulation to joints other than those of the spine, i.e., shoulder, elbow, wrist/hand/finger, hip, knee, ankle/foot/toe. Examples of conditions treated include carpal tunnel syndrome, gait, or posture-related problems.
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Activator Method
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This method uses a hand-held, spring-loaded instrument to implement the adjustment protocol. Instead of the adjusting forces being delivered by hand, force is generated with the small appliance that delivers a lighter, but quicker, thrust than can be delivered by hand. The activator method can be the primary treatment protocol for all patients or a selective method for patients who may not desire manual adjustment or where it may be contraindicated.
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Cox Flexion / Distraction
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This mechanical and / or hands-on manipulation technique utilizes a table where the spine is tractioned and flexed forward. This technique is primarily utilized to treat cervical and lumbar disc herniations, non-disc spinal disorders, and to increase mobility of spinal joints.
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Trigger Point Therapy
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Injured or overused muscles can develop knotty and sensitive places called trigger points. These points develop when portions of the muscle become adherent and are chemically prevented from returning to a relaxed state. They usually occur in the neck, head, shoulders and lower back due to cumulative trauma, bruises, surgical incisions and joint injuries among others. The presence of these points causes muscle and joint dysfunction as well as inflammation induced pain. This pain can be quite severe, sometimes presenting similar to a herniated disc. Chiropractors are trained to identify trigger points and release the tension in these regions by applying pressure for variable amounts of time. This procedure improves muscle function, relieves pain and restores proper joint function.
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Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT)
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This method uses triangular-shaped blocks usually placed under the pelvis of the prone patient to address low back problems. Low force, slow pressure types of manipulations may be used to address joint problems identified in the skull. SOT may be used as an exclusive treatment technique or as an adjunct method of patient management.
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Applied Kinesiology
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This treatment regimen combines several specific chiropractic procedures. Diversified manipulation may be used with nutritional interventions, together with light massage of various points referred to as neurolymphatic and neurovascular points. Clinical decision-making is often based on testing and evaluating muscle strength.
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Cranial Technique
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This is not a specific chiropractic technique, but possibly several techniques using the application of chiropractic manipulation to joints of the skull (similar to the SOT technique previously mentioned). Since individual anatomy of skull joints is different, the styles of manipulation are different and no cavitation occurs.
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Meric System
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This is a clinical decision-making system used to identify the appropriate spinal levels for adjustment. Spinal segments are adjusted (usually with a diversified technique) corresponding to the nerves that supply the area of patient symptomatology.
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