Activator Method

An activator is a chiropractic adjusting tool that is used by chiropractic physicians for patients either suffering from osteoporosis, arthritis, general musculoskeletal discomfort or a fear of chiropractic manipulations. It works well with all populations of patients and is especially favorable in adjusting the elderly and in children. The activator tool is a small instrument that fits easily in the palm of your hand. It has a small pogo stick-like appearance. It is spring-loaded, with the tip of the tool placed at the location of the area of the body to be adjusted. Aside from the spine, the activator tool can also be used on the jaw as well as extremity joints such as the knees, ankles and wrists. While some patients prefer the traditional manual adjustment, some patients prefer the activator method for its more gentle, low-force approach to manipulation. The activator is used by nearly 70% of the chiropractic professional population and the technique is taught in almost all chiropractic colleges both in the United States and abroad. Since its invention by Dr. Arlan Fuhr in the 1960’s, the activator has become the most popular adjusting tool in the chiropractic profession.

Leg Lengths

The activator method is employed after an examination of the leg lengths of a patient. The patient will also be examined for any improper body mechanics, joint dysfunction and any potential neurological issues. The concept of the activator is that by applying the gentle mechanical adjustment to the area of the spine needing manipulation, unequal leg length will be improved and any misalignment of the spinal column with be corrected. Some conditions that may benefit from the use of an activator include sciatica, neck and low back pain, whiplash injury, some disc dysfunction, headaches and carpel tunnel pain. Chiropractic physicians who offer activator method services often attend activator method seminars with some seminars allowing a physician to become certified, although these seminars are not required. There have been numerous studies and clinical trials done in regards to the effectiveness and safety of the activator method. While the tool itself and the manipulation it provides appears safe for patients of all ages, there remains a mixed opinion within the chiropractic profession as to whether or not the method is as effective as manual chiropractic adjustments. For a list of chiropractors who have been certified in the activator method, there is a link at www.activator.com to help patients locate a physician near them.

References Cited in this Article

www.wisegeek.com

www.activator.com

www.chiropractor-finder.com