Traditional Chiropractic Techniques in Snohomish

Snohomish Chiropractic & Nutrition in Snohomish uses this sophisticated upper cervical technique that aligns each vertebra up according to the center of the spinal cord. It uses sophisticated analysis and x-rays to determine the current and optimal positions of each bone in the neck. Sometimes three-dimensional x-rays are even taken for more precision. Blair is the only upper cervical technique that analyses as low as the 5th neck bone. Dr. Blair worked very closely with B.J. Palmer in Davenport Iowa.

This technique is the most common approach to spinal manipulation worldwide. Joe Janse, D.C It is most commonly credited for formalizing Diversified. Diversified is the most common spine manipulation technique used by chiropractors. In fact, approximately 96% of chiropractors use it for approximately 70% of their patients. Interestingly, diversified is the only spine manipulation technique taught in Canadian chiropractic programs. Like many chiropractic manipulative techniques, Diversified is characterized by a high-velocity, short-lever thrust. It is considered the most generic chiropractic manipulative technique and is aimed at restoration of proper movement and alignment of the spine and spinal joints.

Logan Basic Technique was developed by H.B. Logan, DC. It is a very low-force manual technique. In this technique, light and constant pressure or force are applied against a specific contact point at the base of the spine, on the sacrum. In fact, while most techniques use high velocity and a short lever, Logan Basic uses slow pressure. This technique uses the musculature as a lever to balance the spinal structure.

Dr. Clarence Gonstead was a structural designer before entering chiropractic school. As a result, he brought the basic engineering principles of foundation and structure with him developing his own system of chiropractic. Gonstead technique is based on the foundation theory. If the foundation is not aligned, everything above it will be under stress. Gonstead focuses on looking at the way each spinal segment functions compared to the one below it. If the foundation is sound, everything above it will be sound. Dr. Clarence Gonstead proved the sacroiliac joint was a movable joint. A concept now accepted in the medical field. He also pioneered the side posture technique as well as the cervical chair and the knee-chest table.

Palmer toggle is an upper cervical technique. Chiropractic went through a phase where it was believed only two bones in the spine needed to be adjusted. They were the top two bones, known as C1 and C2 or Atlas and Axis respectively. While most chiropractors have abandoned that idea many of us still understand that it is a very important area of the spine. Why? That’s where the brainstem is located. The brainstem is responsible for controlling all of the vital functions that keep you alive. Palmer maintained that only the atlas could misalign itself, or cause misalignment below that point, thus putting pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves and causing disease.

Pierce was the first corrective chiropractic system.  That is, not only did the Pierce system strive to locate and remove the subluxation, but it also was aimed at improving overall spinal shape and function.  It was developed by Vernon Pierce, D.C., Sr and consists of a biomechanical analysis of spine kinematics (or spinal motion).  Its main goal is to reduce or eliminate scoliosis and restore optimal curves to the spine (front to back).

Have you ever been to a chiropractor who used a lever to lift a section of the table up slightly? He or she then applied a rapid, gentle force into your spine or pelvis which caused the lifted piece to drop rapidly. A chiropractor by the name of Clay Thompson pioneered this approach. The Thompson Technique utilizes a “Segmental Drop Table” to enhance the motion force imparted towards the specific area of the spine. Dr. Thompson discovered that by using “drop tables”, one could deliver a treatment that was just as effective with less force. This made life easier on both the patient AND the treating doctor. The “Segmental Drop System” takes advantage of the spine’s inherent design of the joints in order to move specific spinal bones in a specific corrective direction. This will improve the motion and restore joint health.