Daniel David Palmer (aka D.D. Palmer) is widely known as the founder of chiropractic care. He opened the very first school of chiropractic in 1897 where he taught his healing techniques and eventually expanded the college to multiple cities all while raising awareness of the benefits of chiropractic. Since then, chiropractic has spread far and wide as a viable non-invasive treatment for many ailments. This growth prompted the development of diverse techniques to address specific needs. In this blog, we will discuss 7 types of chiropractic methods frequently used today. The Palmer Method of ChiropracticThe Palmer Method, named after D.D. Palmer, focuses on misalignments of the upper cervical spine, particularly the atlas (the first vertebra at the base of the skull). It centers on the belief that misalignment of the atlas can disrupt nerve communication and lead to other health problems throughout the body. The Palmer method often operates using a "hole-in-one" technique. This involves using X-rays to pinpoint the exact position of the atlas. Then, through gentle manipulations of the head and neck, the chiropractor aims to guide the atlas back into its ideal alignment. The Gonstead TechniqueThe Gonstead Technique is centered around the idea that the body’s foundation is the pelvic girdle. When this structure is normal, balance and stability are also normal. However, if any of the vertebrae become misaligned, changes will be prevalent throughout the whole body. The original philosophy behind this method is to find the misalignment, correct it, and leave it be unless it causes further problems. While focusing on the spine, Gonstead practitioners consider overall health and may recommend lifestyle changes or complementary therapies. The Diversified Chiropractic TechniqueOne of the most common chiropractic methods used in modern practices, the Diversified Technique, employs the techniques you might imagine when you think of the term “chiropractic.” The chiropractor uses their hands or instruments to apply a quick, controlled thrust to a specific joint with restricted movement. Its objective is to restore proper mobility and range of motion via “high velocity and low amplitude” thrusts within each joint that’s affected. The Thompson Drop TechniqueThis technique involves something called the Thompson Drop Table, a specialized treatment table that has segments that “drop” with the portion of the body being treated during high velocity, low amplitude thrusts. The table facilitates joint movement and is considered a gentle healing technique. The Activator MethodThe Activator Method is the 2nd most common technique used in chiropractic care. It’s unlike traditional spinal manipulation because it uses a small tool called the “Activator Adjusting Instrument.” This tool delivers low-force, high-speed adjustments to a specific, single, targeted vertebra. The activator method emphasizes precise targeting and claims to be gentler than traditional manual adjustments, making it potentially suitable for individuals who prefer a less forceful approach. The Sacro-Occipital TechniqueThe Sacro-Occipital technique (SOT) is a comprehensive chiropractic method that focuses on restoring balance and function to the neuromusculoskeletal system, particularly focusing on the relationship between the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) and the occiput (the bone at the back of the head). It came about when an engineer, Major Bertrand DeJarnette, suffered a major injury and received chiropractic treatment. He applied his engineering expertise to chiropractic, stressing the importance of indicators and patterns within the body, acknowledging that pain in one area could be caused by misalignments in another. Using this method allows chiropractors to know when spinal corrections are not enough so they can employ other methods. The Toggle Recoil TechniqueToggle Recoil is a chiropractic method invented by BJ Palmer, the son of D.D. Palmer, in 1910. It corrects the upper cervical vertebra (in the neck) without twisting or bending the neck and is considered a gentle healing technique. The use of a drop table is required so the chiropractor can use minimal force with extreme precision and maximum results. Schedule a Chiropractic AppointmentDr. Petrak was trained at the Palmer College of Chiropractic and uses the Palmer Method every day to help patients live healthier and happier lives. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
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