5 Common Chiropractic Adjustment Types & When They’re Used

Chiropractic adjustment techniques have helped millions of people find relief from pain and improve their overall health. At Revive Health & Wellness in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, our skilled chiropractors use various adjustment methods to address different conditions and patient needs. Understanding these techniques can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare and know what to expect during your treatment.

Whether you’re dealing with back pain, neck stiffness, or mobility issues, different chiropractic adjustment approaches offer targeted solutions. This guide will walk you through five common adjustment types, explaining when each technique is most effective and what benefits you can expect.

What Are Chiropractic Adjustments?

Chiropractic adjustments are manual therapy techniques that involve applying controlled pressure to specific joints in your spine and other areas of your body. These precise movements help restore proper joint function, reduce pain, and improve your body’s natural healing processes.

Professional chiropractors use their hands or specialized instruments to perform these adjustments. The goal is to correct misalignments (called subluxations) that can interfere with your nervous system and overall health.

1. Diversified Technique

Overview

The Diversified Technique is the most widely used chiropractic adjustment method. This approach involves quick, precise thrusts applied to specific spinal segments using the chiropractor’s hands.

When It’s Used

Acute back pain
Neck pain and stiffness
Headaches and migraines
General spinal misalignments
Joint dysfunction

Benefits

Immediate pain relief
Improved range of motion
Better spinal alignment
Enhanced nerve function

The Diversified Technique works well for patients who respond positively to traditional manual adjustments. Many people experience the satisfying “pop” sound during this type of chiropractic adjustment, which indicates the release of gas bubbles from the joint space.

2. Activator Method

Overview

The Activator Method uses a small, handheld instrument called an Activator to deliver gentle, low-force impulses to targeted areas of the spine and extremities.

When It’s Used

Elderly patients who need gentler treatment
Patients with osteoporosis
Those who prefer instrument-assisted therapy
Specific joint problems
Pediatric chiropractic care

Benefits

Precise targeting of problem areas
Gentle approach with minimal discomfort
Consistent force application
Suitable for sensitive patients

This chiropractic adjustment technique is particularly beneficial for patients who may not be comfortable with traditional manual adjustments or those who require a more controlled approach to treatment.

3. Gonstead Technique

Overview

The Gonstead Technique is a comprehensive approach that involves detailed analysis of your spine using X-rays, visualization, and palpation before performing specific adjustments.

When It’s Used

Complex spinal conditions
Disc problems
Chronic pain conditions
Cases requiring precise diagnosis
Structural abnormalities

Benefits

Highly specific adjustments
Thorough diagnostic approach
Minimal unnecessary manipulation
Effective for difficult cases

Chiropractors trained in the Gonstead method spend considerable time analyzing your condition before treatment. This chiropractic adjustment approach often yields excellent results for patients with challenging spinal issues.

4. Thompson Drop Table Technique

Overview

The Thompson Drop Table Technique uses a specialized table with sections that drop slightly when pressure is applied. This dropping motion assists the adjustment while reducing the force needed from the chiropractor.

When It’s Used

Patients who need gentler adjustments
Leg length discrepancies
Pelvic misalignments
Lower back problems
Patients with muscle tension

Benefits

Reduced force requirements
Comfortable for patients
Effective for pelvic adjustments
Suitable for various body types

The drop table mechanism makes this chiropractic adjustment technique particularly effective for treating pelvic and lower back issues while maintaining patient comfort throughout the treatment.

5. Flexion-Distraction Technique

Overview

Flexion-Distraction uses a specialized table that gently stretches the spine while the chiropractor applies specific pressure to targeted areas. This technique combines spinal decompression with targeted adjustments.

When It’s Used

Disc herniations
Sciatica
Spinal stenosis
Chronic low back pain
Facet joint syndrome

Benefits

Gentle spinal decompression
Improved disc health
Reduced nerve pressure
Non-invasive treatment option

This chiropractic adjustment method is particularly effective for disc-related problems and provides a gentler alternative to more aggressive treatment approaches.

Choosing the Right Chiropractic Adjustment Technique

Your chiropractor will determine the most appropriate technique based on several factors:

Your specific condition and symptoms
Age and overall health status
Previous treatment responses
Personal preferences and comfort level
Severity of your condition

What to Expect During Your Treatment

During your first visit, your chiropractor will:

Review your medical history
Perform a physical examination
Discuss your symptoms and concerns
Recommend appropriate diagnostic tests if needed
Explain the chosen chiropractic adjustment technique
Answer any questions you may have

Safety and Effectiveness

Chiropractic adjustments are generally safe when performed by licensed professionals. Research shows that these treatments are effective for various conditions, particularly back pain, neck pain, and headaches.

Common side effects are typically mild and may include:

Temporary soreness
Slight stiffness
Mild fatigue

These effects usually resolve within 24-48 hours after treatment.

Conclusion

Understanding different chiropractic adjustment techniques can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare. Whether you need gentle instrument-assisted treatment or more traditional manual adjustments, there’s likely a technique that’s right for your specific needs.

Ready to experience the benefits of professional chiropractic care? Contact Revive Health & Wellness today at 732-444-1103 or visit us at 3201 Bridge Ave, Point Pleasant, NJ 08742. Our skilled chiropractors will work with you to determine the best treatment approach for your specific needs and help you achieve optimal health and wellness.