Chiropractic techniques are hands-on methods chiropractors use to adjust, align, and mobilize the spine and other joints to relieve pain, improve mobility, and support overall health.
Here are the main categories and commonly used chiropractic techniques:
1. Spinal Manipulation (Adjustment)The hallmark of chiropractic practice.Uses controlled, sudden force on specific joints (often the spine).Restores alignment, reduces nerve irritation, and improves function.
Examples:Diversified Technique – the most common method, involving high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts.Gonstead Technique – highly specific adjustments guided by X-rays and palpation.—
2. Spinal Mobilization (Gentle Adjustment)Uses slower, more gradual movements than traditional thrusts.Suitable for patients needing a gentler approach (e.g., elderly, osteoporosis).
Examples:Activator Method – a handheld spring-loaded tool delivers a precise impulse.Thompson Drop-Table Technique – uses a special table with drop pieces to reduce force.—
3. Flexion-Distraction TechniqueUses a specialized table that moves the spine in rhythmic, gentle traction.Commonly applied in disc herniations, sciatica, and lower back pain.—
4. Soft Tissue TherapyAddresses muscles, ligaments, and fascia alongside spinal adjustments.Includes massage, trigger point therapy, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM).—
5. Stretching and MobilizationChiropractors guide patients through stretching exercises.Helps improve range of motion, reduce stiffness, and prevent recurrence.—
6. Extremity AdjustmentsNot only the spine – chiropractors adjust shoulders, knees, ankles, wrists, and hips.Helps with posture, gait, and sports injuries.—
7. Rehabilitative ExercisesOften combined with adjustments.Includes core strengthening, posture correction, and ergonomic training.Here’s a comparison chart of chiropractic techniques that shows their purpose, conditions treated, and level of force:—
✅ In summary:Chiropractic techniques range from high-velocity spinal adjustments to gentle mobilizations and soft tissue therapies, depending on the patient’s needs, condition, and tolerance.
Chiropractic techniques are hands-on methods chiropractors use to adjust, align, and mobilize the spine and other joints to relieve pain, improve mobility, and support overall health.
Here are the main categories and commonly used chiropractic techniques:
1. Spinal Manipulation (Adjustment)The hallmark of chiropractic practice.Uses controlled, sudden force on specific joints (often the spine).Restores alignment, reduces nerve irritation, and improves function.
Examples:Diversified Technique – the most common method, involving high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts.Gonstead Technique – highly specific adjustments guided by X-rays and palpation.—
2. Spinal Mobilization (Gentle Adjustment)Uses slower, more gradual movements than traditional thrusts.Suitable for patients needing a gentler approach (e.g., elderly, osteoporosis).
Examples:Activator Method – a handheld spring-loaded tool delivers a precise impulse.Thompson Drop-Table Technique – uses a special table with drop pieces to reduce force.—
3. Flexion-Distraction TechniqueUses a specialized table that moves the spine in rhythmic, gentle traction.Commonly applied in disc herniations, sciatica, and lower back pain.—
4. Soft Tissue TherapyAddresses muscles, ligaments, and fascia alongside spinal adjustments.Includes massage, trigger point therapy, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM).—
5. Stretching and MobilizationChiropractors guide patients through stretching exercises.Helps improve range of motion, reduce stiffness, and prevent recurrence.—
6. Extremity AdjustmentsNot only the spine – chiropractors adjust shoulders, knees, ankles, wrists, and hips.Helps with posture, gait, and sports injuries.—
7. Rehabilitative ExercisesOften combined with adjustments.Includes core strengthening, posture correction, and ergonomic training.Here’s a comparison chart of chiropractic techniques that shows their purpose, conditions treated, and level of force:—
✅ In summary:Chiropractic techniques range from high-velocity spinal adjustments to gentle mobilizations and soft tissue therapies, depending on the patient’s needs, condition, and tolerance.