Chiropractic methods and techniques
In each of the eleven AFC Chiropractic offices our team of experienced doctors employ a wide array of chiropractic methods and techniques designed and proved to bring tangible relief to patients suffering from many types of pain or discomfort.
Diversified Technique is the most commonly used adjustment technique. It is characterized by a high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust. Diversified is considered the most generic manipulative technique. Its objective is to restore proper movement and the spine/joint dysfunction.
The Activator Method is a chiropractic treatment device that is an alternative to manual manipulation of the spine. The device gives consistent mechanical low-force, high speed chicks to the body. This is a great option for some more sensitive patients.
Gonstead Technique was developed by an automotive engineer turned chiropractor, this technique uses very specific method of analysis to determine the precise adjusting techniques.
Thompson Drop Technique uses a precision adjusting table with a weighing mechanism which adds only enough tension to hold the patient in the up position before the thrust was given
Most frequently used techniques
Chiropractors may include any of hundreds of available techniques and methods in their practices. The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners has rated the following as the most frequently used techniques, here listed with percentages of chiropractors who use them and patients who are treated with them.
| Technique | % of Chiropractors using technique |
% of Patients treated with technique |
| 1. Diversified technique | 96.2 | 71.5 |
| 2. Extremity manipulating/adjusting | 95.4 | 46.8 |
| 3. Activator Methods | 69.9 | 23.9 |
| 4. Thompson | 61.3 | 28.2 |
| 5. Gonstead | 57.2 | 26.2 |
| 6. Cox Flexion/Distraction | 56.5 | 23.5 |
| 7. Sacro Occipital Technique [SOT] | 49.6 | 15.3 |
| 8. Manipulative/Adjustive Instruments | 40.3 | 15.7 |
| 9. Cranial | 38.0 | 10.3 |
| 10. Applied Kinesiology | 37.6 | 12.9 |
| 11. NIMMO/Receptor Tonus | 33.6 | 13.4 |
| 12. Logan Basic | 26.0 | 5.2 |
| 13. Palmer upper cervical [HIO] (Hole-in-One) | 25.7 | 6.7 |
| 14. Pierce-Stillwagon | 15.4 | 5.1 |
| 15. Meric | 15.1 | 4.3 |
| 16. Other | 12.5 | 10.4 |