There are many different techniques that a chiropractor uses to help ease their patients’ pain. Chiropractors can use maipulations and adjustments on all different areas of the body to realign bones which in turn eases pressure and discomfort. This type of treatment has gotten a bad rep from the medical community but it is quickly becoming more and more popular because it is minimally invasive with a natural, hands on approach.

The first type of chiropractic adjustment is spinal manipulation. With this treatment, the chiropractor quite literally adjusts the spine. The ultimate goal of this type of adjustment is to “train” the spine to sit in a more comfortable position within the body. A misaligned spine is a major cause of pain throughout the body. The spine literally holds the entire body together and upright so if it is out of whack, every part of your body can suffer.

Another type of chiropractic treatment is the manipulation and adjustment of the extremities. Many people suffer from stiff joints and sore muscles. By adjusting the extremities, chiropractors aim to restore muscular mobility which increases blood flow thus reducing stiffness. When your muscles and joints feel loose, your entire mind and body feels better.

There are two specific type of chiropractic adjustments called the Acitvator Method and the Thompson Technique. Both of these techniques relate to the legs and how the hips and pelvis are aligned. The Activator method takes a close look at how each person stands and how the length of their legs could possibly affect their pelvic alignment. The chiropractor manipulates the affected vertebrae and pelvic bones to acheieve realignment. With the Thompson Technique, the chiropractor adjusts the legs, pushing them back into the hip sockets to help realign them. Over a long period of time, the way a person stands can affect the hip joints and become painful. By adjusting these joints, everything in the lower body can be realigned relieving pain.

Two other type of techniques related to spinal manipulation can help a patient suffering from a variety of symptoms. The first is the Gonstead Technique which is utilized when spinal misalignment is causing a pinched nerve. By applying pressure to the correct areas, the pinched nerve can be relaxed , in turn giving the patient much needed relief. The other type of manipulation is the Cox flexion/distraction technique. This is a popular technique used on patients who suffer anything from headaches to herniated discs. The Cox flexion/distraction technique bends muscles and joints to achieve realignment.

The best course of action is to talk to your doctor about what type of treatment is best for you, but it can never hurt to go in confident and full of knowledge. Always be honest with your chiropractor and tell them everything that is ailing you. By being completely upfront about all of your symptoms your chiropractor will be able to provide you with the best care possible giving you the best chance of relieving all your pain.

Author Bio: Dr. Mason Sheehan II is a Richmond chiropractor with HealthSource Chiropractic & Progressive Rehab. HealthSource offers services such as Richmond spinal decompression therapy, Richmond cold laser therapy, and much more. HealthSource can be found online at: RichmondChiro.net .