Low-Force Chiropractic Technique

What do you think of when you hear the words “chiropractic adjustment”? For a lot of people, the first thing they think of is the audible cracking and popping associated with a manual chiropractic adjustment. While there’s certainly nothing wrong with this safe and effective method of chiropractic care, there are alternatives out there for those who prefer a gentler, less intimidating approach. 

Most chiropractic adjustments are done using the “high velocity, low amplitude” (HVLA) approach, consisting of quick, short movements over restricted joints. The most popular form of HVLA manipulation is called the Diversified Technique and is what most people are generally thinking of when chiropractic care is mentioned. This technique involves the doctor placing the patient in different positions and using their hands and body weight to thrust into specific points on the patient’s spine. Low-force techniques have the same end goal– to realign the joints, relieve pain, and restore proper range of motion– but without the twisting and torquing that characterizes HVLA adjustments. 

At Dunwoody Chiropractic Center, our chiropractor uses one of the most well-known low-force techniques called the Activator Method. This method utilizes a handheld, spring-loaded device called an Activator to perform its adjustments. Instead of contorting your body and then thrusting into your spine, our chiropractor uses isolation tests to determine which segments need to be adjusted and then uses the Activator to deliver several quick taps to the desired joint. There is no popping or cracking with these adjustments, the risk of accidental injury is greatly reduced, and treatments can be more effective since patients are less likely to tense up in anticipation of the thrust. These extremely precise, targeted adjustments are designed to specifically care for just the right areas without putting undue stress on the rest of your body.

While we believe that everyone can benefit from regular chiropractic care, some people just aren’t good candidates for traditional chiropractic methods. This is one very important reason why our office prefers to use a low-force technique. Because these adjustments are so gentle, they are ideal for infants, the elderly, auto injury and personal injury victims, those new to chiropractic care, and anyone experiencing pain that limits their mobility.  Low-force techniques are also safer for patients with degenerative conditions like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, for which chiropractic manipulation is typically contraindicated. If you think you might benefit from a gentler, low-force chiropractic adjustment, call us today to book an appointment with our experienced Dunwoody chiropractor.