The Adjustment Room

Dr. Mitchell adjusting patient

X-Ray Room

Chiropractic Techniques

Diversified Technique or Full-Spine Specific (FSS)

This is a widely used type of chiropractic manipulation/ adjustment that
includes most of the procedures taught at chiropractic schools. This technique
is the most commonly used of all chiropractic techniques and is the one pro-
bably most familiar to patients. The Diversified manipulation/adjustment
entails a highvelocity, low-amplitude thrust that usually results in a cavitation
of a joint (quick, shallow thrusts that cause the popping noise often associated with a chiropractic manipulation/adjustment). As the name implies, the Diversified Technique can be used to treat many of the joints in the body.

Extremity Manipulating/Adjusting

This is the application of chiropractic manipulation/adjustment to joints other than those of the spine, i.e., shoulder, elbow, wrist/hand/finger, hip, knee, ankle/foot/toe. Examples of conditions treated by extremity manipulation/ adjustment: carpal tunnel syndrome, gait, or posture-related problems.

Activator Method

This is a hand-held, spring-loaded instrument-based manipulation/adjust-
ment protocol. Instead of the manipulating/adjusting forces being delivered
by hand, force is generated with the small appliance that delivers a lighter,
but quicker, thrust than can be delivered by hand. Activator can be used as
a primary treatment protocol for all patients or a selective method for patients who may not desire manual manipulation/adjustment or where manual manipulation/adjustment may be contraindicated.

Gonstead Technique

This is a specific chiropractic technique and is a variation of the Diversified technique that utilizes manipulation/adjustment by hand that usually results
in joint cavitation. X-ray analysis, palpation, and temperature gradient
studies may be used in clinical decision-making (i.e., what segment(s) to manipulate/adjust).

Flexion/Distraction

This is a specific chiropractic technique that uses mechanical and hands-on manipulation/ adjustment utilizing a special table where the spine is tractioned and flexed forward. This technique is primarily utilized to treat cervical and lumbar disc herniations, nondisc spinal disorders, and to increase mobility of spinal joints.

Thompson Technique

This is a specific chiropractic method and is a variation of the Diversified technique that uses a special table with several segments called drop
pieces. These segments can be cocked up a fraction of an inch, so when
the thrust is delivered, the table will drop this fraction of an inch. The drop pieces assist the thrust while minimizing the force used for the manipulation/
adjustment. Cavitation of the joint may or may not occur.