Chiropractic Treatment A 2 Z

A chiropractor is a qualified medical professional specializing in disorders, pains and aches that are related to the musculoskeletal system. They most commonly deal with injuries and pains related to the spine, which ultimately affects various segments of the nervous system.

Chiropractic is often seen as an alternative therapy, simply because the treatments are generally drug and surgery free.

There are many reasons for visiting a chiropractor, most commonly when injuries, pain or discomfort occur. However, treatments known as subluxations are apparently beneficial, even if you have no pain or discomfort at all.

A chiropractor is able to diagnose and often treat nerve-related pains and discomfort by performing specialized techniques. The most common technique is manipulation of the spine and vertebrae. As the spine protects the spinal column, which controls all the nerves and sensations throughout the body, oftentimes a slipped, herniated or bulging disk (between the vertebrae) can put pressure on the spinal column, which results in pains and aches on various body parts.

The guide below will give you a brief understanding of the various chiropractic treatments and techniques available:

Subluxation

Chiropractors can set the subluxation of the spine, which basically involves aligning it, to avoid added pressure on the nerves. This kind of treatment can be done even if you have no pain or discomfort and is seen as a good method to ensure optimal spinal alignment.

Specialized Chiropractic Treatments

There are many chiropractic treatments that are used to treat pain, injury and discomfort. Some chiropractors specialize in one treatment; however, most of them use several techniques to treat the condition holistically. The most common treatment method is spinal adjustments and manipulation of the spine.

Chiropractors generally use spinal manipulation and other therapies to try and correct the alignment of the affected nerve with the aim of easing the pain and discomfort. Some of these therapies include:

• Activator uses a small, specialized tool which moves the vertebrae, delivering a measured force to correctly align the body.

• Bio-Energetic Synchronization Technique is used to correct imbalances that occur within the body's electromagnetic field. This technique uses specific pressure points to help relieve the pain and discomfort.

• Cox Flexion Distraction Technique is not a manipulation technique; however, it involves stretching the spine on a specialized, movable table.

• Gonstead Technique uses X-rays to help determine a detailed analysis of the spine; specific adjustments are performed on the patient.

• Logan Basic Technique uses the pressure of the thumb to correct the sacrum at the base of the spine, which is said to correct the rest of the spine as well.

• Manipulation is the most common method and involves various techniques to manipulate and move the vertebrae within the spine.

• Mobilization involves stretching techniques to help improve the range of motion for a specific muscle or joint area.

• Motion Palpitation helps the chiropractor to identify fixations of the joints, by feeling the spinal areas as the patient moves.

• Nimmo Technique is a technique that involves pulling the vertebrae out of alignment with the use of digital pressure that is applied to specific trigger points. This type of treatment is said to release muscles from a spasm.

• Neural Organization Technique (NOT) uses muscle testing to help pinpoint and correct food allergies and dysfunctions that may be affecting the optimal flow of cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain.

• Palmer Toggle Recoil Technique is a manipulation and adjustment technique that is performed with a quick forward thrust (toggle), followed immediately by a quick withdrawal (recoil). The chiropractor uses his or her hands to perform this technique.

• Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) is a type of treatment that involves analyzing and correcting distortions of the pelvis and base of the spine, which ultimately improves the circulation of the fluid within the spine, known as cerebrospinal fluid.

  This method is performed using padded blocks, which are placed under the pelvic area. The positioning of the blocks allows the body to adjust itself to relieve muscle tension and improve the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid.

• Thompson Terminal Point is generally performed on a special drop table. The cushions of the table move, (drop down) when pressure is applied to the spine.

Author: Dimi Ingle.
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