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There are countless different chiropractic techniques. Below are some of the more common ones you'll find in Vancouver chiropractic offices. 

Diversified Technique

This technique is the traditional joint manipulation or adjustment most people think of when the think chiropractic. It involves gentle, specific movement to the restricted joint. It involves a short, controlled thrust aimed at restoring normal, pain-free range of motion to the joint. 

These restricted joints can be thought of as feeling "locked up", or not moving properly. An adjustment or manipulation releases joint restrictions, and both restores and adds normal movement to the joint. This also stimulates positional receptors, which subsequently inhibit pain receptors.

The adjustment also helps to break up any fibrous adhesions that may have formed around the joints, which  would otherwise increase stress to the restricted joint. So, adjustments/manipulations promote a gradual return to more favorable biomechanical function. Check out an example of this technique, applied to the extremities, in the video below.

Thompson Technique

This technique is useful for those who are sensitive to more common diversified technique. It uses a segmental drop table that "drops" slightly under the patient when force is applied. This reduces stress on the body.

Active Release Technique (A.R.T.) / Manual Soft Tissue Therapy

A.R.T. is a movement-based massage technique used to effectively release accumulations of scar tissue. It has successfully been used to diagnose and treat cumulative trauma disorders (ie. intensive athletic training). 

A.R.T. effectively breaks down the accumulation of adhesions and scar tissue that form abnormal bands of tissue that grow together in an abnormal way. Adhesions can form between joints and attach to muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels, causing restricted movement and occasionally numbness or tingling, if nervous structures are affected. Check out an example of A.R.T. in the video below.

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy

This type of therapy can effectively be used to break down adhesions and scar tissue. Adhesions in the soft tissue can develop as a result of surgery, immobilization, or repetitive strain, among other things. Specific instruments are used that vibrate and emit sound waves when scar tissue is detected. This allows the chiropractor to effectively locate the exact tissues involved, accurately assess the full extent of the injury and monitor the degree of improvement. 

The instruments produce a controlled microtrauma to the affected soft tissue, and stimulate a localized inflammatory response. This subsequently results in the absorption of abnormal fibrosis or excessive scar tissue, and facilitates a healing response that essentially remodels the affected soft tissue structures. 

Arthrostim®

The Arthrostim® is a specialized adjusting instrument that can be used in place of a hand during adjustments. Instead of applying thrusts to the affected joints, chiropractors use the Arthrostim® to deliver a series of taps. The taps are delivered so quickly that patients don't have a chance to tense up, or "guard" themselves, which may be more effective. 

Active Rehabilitation 

A chiropractor may test for any muscular weaknesses or inhibitions and provide directed home exercises designed to improve long-term relief and functional ability. Such home exercises are intended to help patients return to daily activities and minimize the potential for recurrent symptoms. 

Sources:

http://www.vancouver-chiropractor.com/doctor/chiropractor/14L/vancouver-chiropractor/techniques.htm

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