Activator Technique
In the world of chiropractic, if you were to survey a hundred practitioners, you would hear a hundred different techniques or nuances in adjustment techniques. Some are very aggressive, designed to effect the mechanoreceptors in the joints. Others were developed as a more conservative effort to manipulate the joint and restore proper movement.
In my office, I utilize many different techniques. The number one determinant is the comfort level of the patient and number two is the nature of the injury. Some injuries require very precise manipulation without engaging the adjacent structures. Take for example a sprain/ strain injury of the neck. By its nature alone, some structures in the region are damaged, compromising the integrity of the stabilizing structures. Intense or aggressive adjustments have the ability to re-injure or exacerbate the inflammatory response already present. Until the inflammation has been deemed under control, I utilize instrument adjusting. I can specifically target the misaligned segments and restore them to their proper position. 
The Activator Adjusting Method was discovered by Dr. Arlan Fuhr, utilizing an instrument to deliver chiropractic adjustments. The Activator, in plain sight, appears to resemble a hypodermic needle. It weighs just a few ounces but delivers superb results. The rubber tip minimizes the impact of the metal instrument and allows for multiple uses along the spine. In addition to correcting the position of the segments, it also allows the practitioner to effect the muscular tone and presentation.
As I tell all of my patients, Chiropractic Works! The flip side is that not everyone responds to the same techniques. Therefore, I knew that it was necessary to submerge myself in many complimentary techniques. I am pleased to be able to discuss this type of technique with you. If you have any questions regarding this or any other technique, feel free to reach out to us. In our next blog, we will discuss the benefits of Extremity Adjusting and the benefits to homeostasis. Until then, live well and healthy.