Flexion-Distraction Technique

A chiropractor's hands are by far his or her most valuable tool. It is with their skilled and highly-trained hands that chiropractors help cure aches and pains for a myriad of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system. It’s admirable work. Many chiropractors will tell you that the table used in treatment is just as important as the extensive training they receive. Chiropractor tables come with a variety of specialized features specific to certain treatment techniques.

As there is no single chiropractic technique that is best for all conditions, no one table type is suitable either. The type of care and the treatments you employ will vary by each individual case and each technique may be improved by selecting the right chiropractic table. Some tables, like the Lojer Manuthera® 242 Table, offer the functionality of many table types all-in-one making it an industry favorite.  

ABC Chiropractic Technique 

The ABC (Advanced Biostructural Correction) technique focuses on making manual adjustments to only to misaligned joints allowing the rest of the body to correct naturally. This uncomplicated but effective technique can result in better posture, and therefore, relief from persistent aches and pains.  Although the ABC technique does not require a specific table an adjustment bench or a HyLo Table, are practical options. 

Diversified Technique 

The Diversified Technique is one of the most popular among seasoned chiropractors and patients alike. This technique uses quick shallow thrusts to correct spinal alignment, improve mobility and repair joint dysfunction. In order to treat clients of all shapes and sizes, providers often choose a height adjustable elevation table to practice this technique.  

Gonstead Technique

The Gonstead Technique is one of the most precise techniques for optimal spinal alignment particularly along the lower back or pelvis. The patient typically lays on his or her side while the chiropractor targets joints causing pain or limiting mobility. Although many different chiropractic tables can be used for the Gonstead Technique, Hi-Lo tables and Knee-Chest Tables are most popular. To perform Gonstead cervical alignment the patient will sit on an adjusting chair instead of lying down. 

Graston Technique 

The Graston Technique is commonly used to reduce the appearance and pain associated with muscle knots, scars, or collagen build-up. The patient sits or lays on a chiropractic exam table. Then, the specialist uses ergonomic tools to loosen the scar tissue. The chiropractor rubs over the area that is causing pain. Rubbing the area causes the body to send blood to the area being rubbed. Scar tissue has very little to no blood flow and so this practice helps to remedy that. Increasing blood flow reduces some, if not all, pain.

Thompson Technique 

The Thompson Technique is sometimes referred to as the Drop Technique. This technique uses a Drop Chiropractic Table to create impact by moving specific sections of the table to manipulate the spine. The slower movement reduces, and can even eliminate, pain during the adjustment. 

Activator Method 

The Activator Method is different from many of the other techniques discussed here. The Activator Method requires a tool rather than a table. The Activator creates gentle impulses that assist in the alignment. The patient lays comfortably on a table – like the portable chiropractic table. The chiropractor then gently uses the Activator tool along the spine and back. This tool is great for patients who complain of headaches and lower back pain. 

Active Release Technique 

Active Release Therapy is an involved and painful technique that identifies and resolves soft tissue adhesions with a combination of manual manipulation and movement. This technique was created by a chiropractor to treat elite athletes over 30 years ago and is currently practiced by physicians, massage and physical therapists, as well as chiropractors. In addition to traditional chiropractic techniques, ART often encompasses dry needling, the Graston Technique, or deep tissue massage. While some chiropractic tables offer automated movement that may make the technique easier without the help of an assistant, any exam table could be used. A simple economically-friendly table, like a mat platform table, might be the best option to provide ample space to work.   

Blair Chiropractic Technique 

The highly-specific Blair Chiropractic Technique aims to correct subluxations of the cervical vertebrae through the use of neurological testings, x-rays, and heat-sensing devices. Proponents of the Blair technique typically perform adjustments while the patient lies on their side posture on a chiropractic adjusting table with a dropping headpiece.

Other Tables to Consider 

The more diverse a table, the better. Consider creating flexibility by having several tables with different functions or investing in advanced systems with multiple uses.

Flexion-Distraction Table – The Flexion-Distraction Table is unlike other chiropractic tables. This type of table is engineered to flex and distract the spine in a rhythmic motion during manual adjustment. Typically utilized to resolve cervical and lumbar disorders with associated leg and back pain, the flexion-distraction technique is considered to be nearly pain-free for patients.

Traction Tables – Spinal decompression techniques utilize an automated traction table to stretch muscles and manipulate discs to alleviate pressure and pain by creating more space between the vertebrae and within the discs themselves. Traction table packages, like the Triton DTS 6M, are invaluable tools in achieving positive results. 

Chiropractic Table Accessories – To enhance service capabilities, provide individualized care, and enhance patient comfort, chiropractic table accessories like leg rests, headpieces, table extensions, and positioning wedges, cushions, and bolsters are invaluable.  

Complimentary Chiropractic Essentials 

Chiropractors help their patients in so many ways. They relieve pain, teach about mobility, and offer invaluable support during the recovery process from a plethora of injuries and conditions. Like a great mechanic needs a wrench in his hand, chiropractors need quality tables. Good tables will provide the basic foundation for efficient services. A chiropractor's preferred techniques will help direct them to choose the best tables for his or her practice. The ideal combination of the proper table and skilled hands equals success for both chiropractors and patients.

 

For more information on quality Chiropractic Tables, contact the knowledgeable Scriphessco.com sales team at 1-800-747-3488. We would love to hear from you!