Chiropractic Techniques
Chiropractic adjustments are by definition “high velocity, low amplitude” impulses delivered to the spine. What this means is that the adjusting “thrust” is very quick but shallow. The key ingredient to an effective adjustment is applying the force in an exact manner that sends the vertebra “home.”
Previous spinal stresses and injuries will subluxate spinal joints. The joint mechanics are restricted, nutrient exchange through the joint is decreased, and nerve irritation and changed proprioception occurs. The chiropractic examination helps the chiropractor identify exactly how the spine is restricted and where the nervous system is being impacted. Understanding the exact direction to apply an adjustment is the result of many years of training for the chiropractor to master this skill. The adjustment is directing the vertebra back to where it should be, but where the body has forgotten how to get it there. An adjustment works with the body’s innate ability to heal and is not forcing the body to do anything it does not want to do. The adjustment is parallel to having a tow truck driver move traffic jams off a busy highway. If the highway is clear, the traffic flows effortlessly. The less traffic jams in our spine and nervous system, the better our bodies function and heal.
Dr. Bruce Lambert is the chiropractor at the Lambert Chiropractic Health Centre in Port Credit, Mississauga. He has been trained in numerous chiropractic adjusting techniques and is able to adjust people of any size and any age. Here are some of the techniques Dr. Lambert chooses from to customize an adjusting program for each individual:
Diversified Technique: A hands-on adjusting method that may release little gas bubbles from the joints.
Thompson Technique: A technique analysis protocol and mechanized adjusting table that has moving zones that allows the doctor to use the patient’s own body weight to assist with the adjustment.
Activator: A technique analysis protocol and hand-held adjusting instrument.
Integrator/Torque Release: A technique analysis protocol and hand-held adjusting instrument.
Sacral Occipital Technique: A technique analysis protocol and adjusting process utilizing specifically placed “wedges” and gentle pressure from the doctor.
Pettibon Technique: A technique analysis protocol that utilizes hands-on adjustments, table assisted adjustments and body positioning to create change.
Myofascial Release: A hands-on soft tissue technique that releases adhesions in connective tissue.
Cranial Adjusting Turner Style: An effective assessment tool and technique to improve the alignment and function of the cranial plates and sutures.
Gonstead Technique: A technique analysis protocol and hand-on adjusting method.
Extremity Adjusting Techniques: Biomechanical analysis and adjusting methods of joints of the limbs.
Upper Cervical Technique: A technique analysis protocol and table assisted adjusting method focused on the function of the first and second vertebrae in the spine.