TECHNIQUES & SERVICES
DIVERSIFIED ~ ACTIVATOR
The techniques we utilize to apply Chiropractic Manipulative Therapy (CMT):
1) Diversified Adjusting - utilizes the hands to apply a high velocity (fast), low amplitude (gentle) force over a restricted joint space with the goal of restoring a normal, healthy range of motion to the joint. You may, or may not experience a cavitation (the popping sound) during the adjustment.
2) Activator Adjusting - utilizes this small tool to apply a high velocity, low amplitude force over a restricted joint space. It is great for patients who are extremely sensitive due to their pain level, have a limited range of motion due to arthritic change, for patients who are higher in age and may not have a healthy bone density; for infants and children; and/or for any patients who are not comfortable with being adjusted by hand. This tool is very fast, and very gentle. It may not look like much, but it is highly effective.
WHAT IS THE POPPING SOUND?
A cavitation is the "popping" sound one hears when being adjusted. It is actually a common misconception for many people to think that we are moving bones when we perform an adjustment. There are a series of complex physiological changes that take place during the adjustment. Here's a quick and simple explanation of what actually happens:
First, it is important to understand that the space between the bones (the joint spaces) tend to lack a direct source of blood supply. Instead, they rely on the fluid within the space (synovial fluid) to circulate and replenish the nutrients to the surrounding joint surfaces. This occurs with exercise/regular movement, but it can also be performed during an adjustment.
At its simplest form, an adjustment causes the synovial fluid to circulate so quickly that it releases gas bubbles that collapse on themselves.
A resulting popping sound indicates that gas has been released from the joint space to the surrounding blood vessels to increase circulation and promote healing within the surrounding areas. It also indicates that the fluid has replenished the surfaces of the joint.
This explains why we feel so relaxed following an adjustment.
MYOFASCIAL RELEASE TECHNQUE ~ TRIGGER POINT THERAPY ~ STRETCHING
Myofascial release and other soft tissue therapies are implemented to target the muscle and fascial systems. When utilized correctly, they promote flexibility and mobility to the body's connective tissues; and help reduce chronic inflammation, sensitivity, and pain.
It is not uncommon to experience some pain in the form of soreness following your treatment. Since inflammation is at its peak within 24-48 hours (1-2 days), it is critical to apply an ice pack to the surrounding tissues to control blood flow to the area and optimize the healing process. Make sure to wrap the ice in a towel and only apply it to the middle of the muscle for 10-15 minutes per hour max (for large muscles), or 5-10 minutes per hour max (for smaller muscles). You are free to move the ice to a different location after the round, and your goal is to ice each area over the course of 3-4 hours, or for 3-4 cycles.
REHABILITATION ~ NUTRITION
We implement neuromuscular reeducation, functional movement patters, and various exercises to develop and improve balance, coordination, kinesthetic sense, posture, core stability, efficiency of muscle contraction, and improve motor recruitment patterns. This phase is critical in promoting stability to the joint, establishing the patient's independence, and maintaining or improving the benefits of your treatment.
Research suggests that dietary changes reduce systemic inflammation which, in turn, alleviate pain and other clinical symptoms. Food is used to bring health and wellness to the body. Eating more organic fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats (like omega-3 fatty acids), combined with avoiding processed foods and drinking more water (half your body weight in ounces), helps reduce inflammation, which can help reduce the symptoms of your condition. We incorporate nutritional guidance as a part of our care to educate you on how a balanced diet, and consistent vitamin supplementation can improve your healing process and benefit your overall health.
COMMON CONDITIONS TREATED:
TMJ/JAW PAIN ~ NECK PAIN ~ BACK PAIN ~ HIP/SI JOINT PAIN ~ SCIATICA
ANKLE/FOOT PAIN ~ SHOULDER PAIN ~ ELBOW PAIN ~ WRIST/HAND PAIN
PLANTAR FASCITIS ~ FROZEN SHOULDER ~ CARPAL TUNNEL ~ BURSITIS
TENDINITIS ~ SPORTS INJURIES ~ PINCHED NERVES ~ NUMBNESS/TINGLING
ARTHRITIC JOINT PAIN ~ KNEE PAIN ~ HEADACHES/MIGRAINES ~ MUSCULAR TENSION