Low-Force Chiropractic Techniques

Some patients do not care for the “snap, crackle, and pop” sounds of traditional Diversified chiropractic technique, or they have health conditions which preclude the use of manual manipulations of the spine. For example, a patient who has metal rods or screws in the neck or back could not, and should not, be adjusted using force in those areas. Or a patient may just have too much pain and spasm to tolerate Diversified chiropractic adjustments. Does this mean they cannot benefit from chiropractic?

Not at all--chiropractic still has much to offer these patients. As early as the 1920’s, chiropractors were developing “low force” techniques that may be safely used on anyone. Dr. John Hurley described what came to be known as “Biomechanics Technique,” and Dr. Hugh Logan founded the similar “Logan Basic Technique,” still taught at chiropractic colleges around the country. Other gentle techniques developed out of these were Toftness Technique, Nimmo Technique (or Receptor Tonus Technique), and Active Release. 

In the 1970’s, Dr. Arlan Fuhr was the first to develop an instrument capable of delivering a gentle, controlled thrust to the vertebrae. This instrument, called the “Activator,” is still used by many chiropractors. Later, Dr. John D. Grostic would develop a very specific upper cervical technique using a similar adjusting instrument. Further advancements have been made in the area of instrument adjusting of the spine in recent years. 

Dr. Jeffrey A. Young conducted research under Dr. Grostic at Life University and has studied with senior teachers of all these chiropractic techniques throughout the years in an effort to develop low force chiropractic methods suitable for everyone, regardless of age or condition.