Doctors of chiropractic (DCs) tend to specialize in one or more of the different chiropractic techniques / procedures.

Below are some of the more popular techniques used in a Calgary chiropractic clinic.

Diversified Technique

This technique also called Full-Spine Specific (FSS) is the most widely used chiropractic adjustment technique. In this technique the chiropractor uses high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts in the manipulation /adjustment treatment of a patient. The diversified technique is most frequently used in treating the joints in the body.

Extremity Manipulating/Adjusting Technique

As the name implies this chiropractic procedure focuses on chiropractic adjustments to the extremity joints such as the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hands and fingers, hip, knees, ankle and toes. Here the most common conditions would include posture-linked problems, carpal tunnel syndrome, and gait.

Activator Methods Technique

This technique uses a hand-held, spring-loaded instrument called an activator to perform the adjustment/manipulation. The big advantage of the activator methods is that the activator delivers a lighter and quicker thrust than can be performed by using the hand. Another advantage is that the activator is suitable to be used as a primary treatment basis for all patients even in some cases where manual adjustment may be contraindicated.

Cold Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy is a new specialized non-invasive treatment using a specific type of light generated by a low level laser. This low level laser light penetrates the skin's surface and stimulates the underlying tissue. The cold laser treatment is also known as chiropractic laser therapy, and phototherapy.

The Koren Specific Technique (KST)

The Koren Specific Technique (KST) is a fairly new and innovative chiropractic technique, now offered in Calgary. It is a very effective therapy, that involves specific yet gentle adjustments to treat subluxations misalignment anywhere in the body.

Gonstead Technique

This specific technique, which is a variation of the Diversified technique, emphasizes five criteria in determining the presence of a vertebral subluxation complex. These five criteria include: visualization, instrumentation, static palpation (feeling), motion palpation, and X-ray analysis.

Cox Flexion/Distraction Technique

This specific chiropractic technique uses the hands-on manipulation/ adjustment technique together with a special table designed to traction and flex the spine forward. This technique is frequently used, to in the treatment of disc herniations, and to increase the mobility of the spine.

Thompson Technique

This is another specific chiropractic method which is also a variation of the Diversified technique. The Thompson Technique uses a unique "Segmental Drop Table" with drop pieces for adjusting the dorsal, lumbar, and pelvic regions of the spine.

Another important procedure of the Thompson Technique is the "Leg Length System" an analysis system which is used to determine if there is any imbalance in the length of the legs while the patient is in a prone position on the table.

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