Every year, 35 million Americans see a chiropractor, a health care professional focused on treating the musculoskeletal system. In fact, back pain is so commonplace that 80% of people experience it at some point. If you’re considering seeing a chiropractor, here are a few techniques they commonly use during treatment.

What Adjustments & Techniques Do Chiropractors Commonly Use? 

1. Thompson Technique

The Thompson Technique, also known as the “drop-table” technique, uses a specially designed table that has a degree of leeway built into it. When a doctor thrusts down on the patient’s back, the table flexes with the force.

It doesn’t restrict movement and is more comfortable for both the patient and the doctor. This technique stems from the belief that a healthy spine promotes all-over well-being and is used to treat spinal alignment rather than a specific injury.

2. Diversified Technique

The Diversified Technique uses focused, specific hand movements applied at high speed and low amplitude to problem areas and joints to restore motion.

It’s used mostly for spinal alignment and is one of the classic techniques most associated with chiropractic treatments.

3. Activator Technique

The Activator Technique treats neck and back pain but is perhaps best known for its success in treating chronic headaches and migraines. The Activator is an instrument that issues a reflex tap-like jolt when applied to the tissues at or near the problem area.

Unlike many of the more physical techniques, patients lie completely still during the process, which makes it a safe option for seniors.

4. Gonstead Technique

The Gonstead Technique is used to improve mobility, reduce pain or stiffness, and realign joints. It’s one of the most universally practiced chiropractic techniques.

The patient lies on their side, and the chiropractor adjusts their pelvis and lower back using a hands-on approach. It’s catered specifically to the patient and often involves thermal scans and digital X-rays if required.

5. Flexion Distraction

Flexion Distraction—also known as the Cox® Technic—relieves pain by decompressing the spine. It’s commonly used to treat scoliosis, disc herniation, and facet joint pain.

Doctors use a specially designed adjustment table, which has moving parts to assist with the stretching motions patients feel during treatment. It’s a gentle technique, with lots of slow, repetitive movements.

The team at Cornhusker Chiropractic in Lincoln, NE, has provided relief from back pain and other musculoskeletal injuries and stresses for over 30 years. They see chiropractic treatments as more than just alleviating symptoms and focus on it being a long-term holistic approach to well-being. The family-friendly practice welcomes patients of all ages, successfully treating conditions such as sciatica, neck and back pain, and bulged discs using well-known chiropractic adjustment techniques. Call the experienced team today on (402) 466-1288 or go online to find out more about their offerings.