Chiropractic Manipulation
Chiropractic Manipulation | Physiotherapy
Chiropractic Manipulation
A unique treatment performed by a chiropractic physician to reduce spinal injuries or pain is the adjustment, or manipulation, of specific vertebrae or joints. Manipulation is the specific mobilization of one or more vertebrae that have been found through examination to be lacking proper mobility, function or nerve stimulation. There are numerous techniques used by your Natural Health Physician to aid in the healing process.
Manipulation involves the use of varying degrees of torque or thrust applied by the physician’s hands to a specific vertebra or joint (or the spine or extremities) to facilitate increased ranges of motion and a decrease in pressure on discs, nerves, ligaments and muscles.
We also use alternative techniques that do not involve torque or “cracking” including flexion distraction and activator.
Other types of manipulation include trigger point therapy (TPT) and soft tissue manipulation (STM). Trigger point therapy involves the application of pressure to specific areas or “points” on a muscle to reduce a spasm or increase circulation to the area. Soft tissue manipulation involves the application of light massage to areas requiring increased circulation and a reduction in muscle tension.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is used in the treatment of muscle, tendon or ligament pain, swelling or spasms. Your Natural Health Physician will often incorporate the use of physiotherapy modalities with other treatment protocol to enhance or ensure your recovery. Physiotherapy may include one of or a combination of the following:
Electrotherapy (also known as electric stim, interferential, microcurrent) involves the use of therapeutic electric current for the purpose of reducing pain and swelling, to relax muscle spasms and to increase local blood circulation.
Ultrasound has been in medical use for more than 50 years to treat soft tissue ailments and pain such as bursitis and muscle strain. Ultrasound is a sound wave using various frequencies to penetrate tissues to decrease swelling, reduce pain and promote the body’s healing abilities.
Superficial heat is used to increase circulation, reduce joint stiffness, and relax muscle tension. This is often performed using hot moist packs or warm moist towels.
Cryotherapy is the application of ice to constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, relax muscle spasms and numb painful tissues.