Chiropractic
Trigger Point Therapy
Chiropractors may use this technique to release tight areas within muscles that can cause pain and discomfort. It involves applying pressure to specific trigger points to alleviate pain and improve muscle function.
Types Of Trigger Point Therapy:
- Manual Trigger Point Therapy.
- Dry Needling.
- Spray and Stretch Technique.
- Ischemic Compression.
- Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization.
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises.
- Post-Isometric Relaxation (PIR) Stretching.
- Myofascial Release.
- Neuromuscular Therapy.
Activator Technique
The Activator Technique is a chiropractic adjustment method that uses a handheld instrument called the Activator Adjusting Instrument. This technique is considered a low-force chiropractic treatment approach and is used as an alternative to manual adjustments performed by hand.
How It Works:
Instrument: The Activator Adjusting Instrument is a small, spring-loaded device that delivers a controlled, gentle impulse to specific joints or vertebrae. It is designed to provide a precise adjustment without the need for twisting or sudden movements.
Adjustment Process: During an Activator Technique session, the chiropractor places the tip of the Activator instrument on the targeted area of the spine or joint. When activated, the instrument delivers a quick, low-force thrust to the area, aiming to restore proper alignment and function.
Applied Kinesiology
Applied Kinesiology is integrates principles from chiropractic, osteopathy, and other holistic therapies, focusing on muscle testing.
Techniques Used in Applied Kinesiology:
Chiropractic Adjustments: AK practitioners may use chiropractic adjustments to correct spinal misalignments believed to affect nerve function and overall health.
Nutritional Counseling: Based on muscle testing outcomes, recommendations may be made for specific vitamins, minerals, herbs.
Emotional Stress Release: AK may involve techniques to identify and address emotional stressors that can impact physical health.
Postural Exercises: Exercises and stretches improve posture, enhance muscle strength, and support structural alignment.
Flexion-Distraction
It is primarily used to treat conditions such as disc herniations, spinal stenosis, facet joint syndrome, and other spinal issues that cause back or neck pain.
How it Works:
- Patient Positioning: The patient lies face down on the table, and the chiropractor uses hand placements and the table’s mechanisms to apply gentle traction and flexion to the affected spinal segment(s).
- Controlled Movements: The chiropractor applies rhythmic pumping motions to the spine, alternating between gentle stretching (distraction) and relaxation (release). This helps to mobilize spinal joints, reduce pressure on spinal discs, and improve spinal alignment.
- Targeted Treatment: Flexion-Distraction is typically focused on specific spinal segments that are identified through physical examination, imaging studies (like X-rays or MRI), and patient symptoms.