Chiropractic Techniques: Spinal Manipulation and Activator Methods

Spinal Manipulation

Spinal manipulation is one of the most common treatment chiropractor’s use for lower back pain.  It relieves pain by restoring function and mobility in the spine.  Studies show that spinal manipulation is as effective as medical treatments and safe for everyone.  Serious side effects from spinal manipulation are extremely rare and very few cases have been reported.  The most common side effect is soreness from treatment, but pain generally subsides within 1 to 2 days.  In 2007, the American College of Physicians and the American Pain Society stated that spinal manipulation is an effective treatment option for individuals to consider when back pain doesn’t subside from medication.  Research also suggests that spinal manipulation can relieve lower back pain up to 12 months. 

 Activator Method

The activator is an instrument that provides gentle thrusts into the patient’s problem area.  The chiropractor will conduct several isolation tests on the patient to determine where and how the adjustment will be given.  The activator is a hand held device that delivers effective and painless treatment on the spine and other joints.  This versatile technique is commonly performed on athletes because it can be used on areas such as the knees, shoulders, wrists, ankles, and even joints located in the jaw.  Activator is one of the safest chiropractic techniques and can be used on the elderly and even children.