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A very good morning, everyone!
This is Ollie, your girl who loves matcha and everything health and wellness.
I had such a beautiful morning—nothing better than starting my day with a brisk walk, my favourite pastry, and a perfectly brewed Japanese matcha. Sydney’s weather is finally gorgeous, and the harbour’s sun-kissed waters are sparkling like a dream.
Key Takeaways in Less Than 3 Minutes:
- Why knowing different chiropractic techniques matters.
- The 5 most popular chiropractic techniques you need to know.
- A simple guide to choosing the best technique for your needs.
Why Do Chiropractic Techniques Matter to You?
Let’s face it—neck and back pain aren’t just uncomfortable; they can disrupt your emotional health, work, romance, uni studies, etc. That’s where chiropractic care comes in. But here’s the catch: not all chiropractic techniques are the same. With over 150 different approaches, each targets specific needs. Some like SOT, Thompson drop piece are designed for gentle, low-force adjustments, while others like Gonstead, Activator use precision tools or hands-on methods to target problem areas. Understanding Chiro techniques is not only Chiropractor’s responsibility, you as patient have the agency and power to choose the right treatment for your body and pain. The more you know about your body and treatment plans, the better your health results.
Chiropractic Technique Types: The 5 Most Popular
1. Diversified Technique
What: The most commonly used technique worldwide and taught at renowned institutions like Macquarie University.
Philosophy: Diversified focuses on restoring biomechanical function and improving spinal alignment.
How They Treat You: Chiropractors use hands-on, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts to specific joints. It’s versatile and suitable for most conditions.
2. Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT)
What: A gentle, low-force technique focusing on the relationship between the sacrum and the skull.
Philosophy: Balances the body’s cerebrospinal (cerebral = spine) fluid flow, which is essential for overall wellness.
How They Treat You: Chiropractors use pelvic blocks, cranial adjustments, and soft tissue work to improve nervous system function. Ideal for people who prefer subtle, non-invasive care.
3. Applied Kinesiology
What: A holistic diagnostic and treatment method that combines chiropractic with muscle testing.
Philosophy: Relates to TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), Meridian energy flow, Accupoints, Believes that muscle strength or weakness reflects imbalances in the body.
How They Treat You: The chiropractor evaluates muscle responses to identify problem areas, then uses adjustments, nutrition advice, or acupressure to correct imbalances.
4. Drop-Piece (Thompson Technique)
What: A technique using a specialised chiropractic table with drop pieces for precision.
Philosophy: Focuses on speed and gentle force to adjust the spine.
How They Treat You: The chiropractor applies a quick thrust, and the table’s (part of it literally drops) mechanism helps with the adjustment. It’s ideal for patients who prefer most minimal manual force.
5. Activator Method
What: A low-force method using a small handheld spring-loaded device called an activator.
Philosophy: Targets specific joints or vertebrae for precise, pain-free adjustments.
How They Treat You: Chiropractors use the activator to deliver controlled, quick impulses. Great for infants, babies, pregnant women, or those who dislike traditional manual adjustments.
Which One Should I Pick?
Choosing the right chiropractic technique depends on your comfort level, health goals, and specific needs. Here’s how to decide:
1. Understand Your Pain and Goals
Your specific condition and health objectives will determine the most suitable technique. Consider the following:
- Acute Pain (e.g., sudden back or neck pain): Techniques like Activator, Diversified, or Thompson Drop-Pieceare excellent for immediate relief and reducing inflammation.
- Chronic Pain or Postural Issues: If you’re dealing with long-standing pain or misalignment, Gonstead or Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP) focus on long-term structural correction.
- Sensitive Conditions (e.g., osteoporosis, fibromyalgia): Techniques like Activator or SOT (Sacro-Occipital Technique) are gentle and low force, minimising strain on fragile areas.
2. Consider Your Comfort Level
Every patient has different preferences regarding how they want to be treated:
- Discomfort with Manual Adjustments: If twisting or cracking makes you uneasy, try the Activator Method, which uses a handheld device for gentle adjustments.
- Preference for Hands-On Techniques: If you enjoy a more traditional, hands-on approach, Diversified or Gonstead are reliable choices.
3. Discuss Your Chiropractor’s Expertise
Chiropractors are trained in multiple techniques but often specialize in a few. Ask them:
- What techniques do you specialise in?
- Why are you recommending this technique for my condition?
- Do you have experience treating my specific issue?
Evidence shows that patient outcomes improve when the chiropractor’s technique matches the condition. For example:
- Gonstead has shown success in addressing mechanical spinal issues like herniated discs (A herniated disc is when a soft cushion pads (disc) between the bones in your spine gets squished and pushes out, pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain or tingling)
- Activator is supported by studies for precision and effectiveness in reducing localised pain.
4. Be Open to Trying Different Techniques
Sometimes, finding the right approach requires trial and error. If one technique doesn’t provide the desired relief, discuss alternative options with your chiropractor. Techniques like Thompson Drop-Piece and Flexion-Distraction can be effective backups for common conditions like lower back pain or sciatica.
5. Look for Research and Evidence
Evidence-backed recommendations for specific conditions include:
- Lower Back Pain: Studies support Diversified and Activator Method for reducing lower back pain quickly and effectively.
- Neck Pain: Research indicates that Cervical Gonstead Adjustments or Activator can provide significant relief.
- Sciatica: Techniques like Flexion-Distraction show promising results in improving nerve mobility and reducing pain.
Patient Pro Tip: Ask These Key Questions
When visiting a chiropractor, ask these practical questions:
- What’s your plan for my treatment? Ensure it includes clear goals and progress tracking.
- How many numbers of sessions will I need? Be wary of indefinite recommendations without measurable milestones.
- What results can I realistically expect? Honest communication builds trust and sets expectations.
How Do I Know Which Technique My Chiropractor Uses?
Simple! Just ask. Or look it up on their website. Chiropractors are more than happy to explain their methods, and understanding their philosophy can help build trust.
You go, girls and boys! Take charge of your health, and always remember—
Stay fab,
Ollie xoxo
