Thursday, 09 September 2010
Chiropractors are More Than Just "Back Doctors"
Doctors of Chiropractor are more than just “back doctors”. Although it is true Doctors of Chiropractic are trained to perform adjustments to subluxations of the spine, the perception of the DC as just a "back doctor" is very much incomplete. Doctors of Chiropractic are a highly appropriate resource in matters of work-place safety, stress management, injury prevention, postural correction and nutritional counseling."
 
PDF Print E-mail
Graston Technique
The Graston Technique is an advanced form of myofascial release for soft-tissue problems. Scar tissue, adhesions and restrictions, often results in pain, weakness and functional limitation for the patient. The Graston Technique uses non-surgical, non-invasive, patented stainless steel instruments, which are contoured to complement the body's shapes and curves. The instruments are designed to enhance Dr. Spencer’s ability to detect fascial adhesions and restrictions and have been clinically proven to achieve quicker and better outcomes in treating both acute and chronic conditions. The Graston Technique is being used by more than 35 professional and amateur sports organizations.

Diversified Technique

Diversified technique is an amalgamation of many different methods. Diversified stresses the integration of a detailed history and thorough biomechanical examination which involves both your nervous and musculoskeletal systems. The treatment protocol may include adjustments, physiotherapeutic modalities, stretches, nutritional supplements, orthotics and other aids.

Extremity Manipulating/Adjusting

This is the application of chiropractic manipulation/adjustment to joints other than those of the spine, i.e., shoulder, elbow, wrist/hand/finger, hip, knee, ankle/foot/toe. Examples of conditions treated by extremity manipulation/ adjustment: carpal tunnel syndrome, gait, or posture-related problems.

Activator Method
The activator method utilizes a hand-held instrument referred to as an activator. This instrument delivers a precise adjustment with consistent velocity. The activator may be used on any joint, however it is particularly useful in treating the smaller joints of the hands and feet. The activator method is also a good alternative for people who are sensitive to being touched or for those with Osteoporosis or Arthritis.

Thompson Technique
The Thompson Technique utilizes a "Segmental Drop Table" to enhance the motion force imparted towards the segment or area to be Adjusted.

The spinal joints face front to back and have an incline which slopes more naturally backwards. The "Segmental Drop System" takes advantage of the spines inherent design of the joints in order to move the spinal segment in the direction that will improve the motion of the segment with the one above and below. The majority of the spinal adjusting utilizing the Thompson Technique has the patient lying face down.

Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger point therapy is a bodywork technique that involves the applying of pressure to tender muscle tissue in order to relieve pain and dysfunction in other parts of the body. Sometimes massage and trigger point therapy are performed together.

Trigger points are areas of tenderness in a muscle. There are two basic types of trigger points: active and latent. Active trigger points cause muscular pain and will refer pain and tenderness to another area of the body when pressure is applied. Latent trigger points only exhibit pain when compressed, they do not refer pain to other areas of the body. Latent trigger points are believed to be one of the causes of stiff joints and restricted range of motion of aging.

Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) Therapy

Dr. Spencer uses Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) to gently sooth muscle groups that a patient is unable to relax.  EMS Therapy involves stimulating the nerves to send signals to a patient’s muscle to expand and contract through gentle low-voltage electric currents. EMS delivers gentle impulses to a patient’s muscles via soft pads connected through wires to the EMS machine. Muscles respond to the impulses that are generated by contracting and relaxing rhythmically. EMS has been scientifically designed and proven to reduce recovery time after injuries or surgeries, promoting healthy muscle activity and increase the mobility and range of motion.

Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy uses high-energy sound waves (those above the range we hear) to help ease painful joints and muscles. When applied to soft tissues and joints, the sound waves are a form of micro-massage that help reduce swelling, increase blood flow, and decrease pain, stiffness, and spasms.

Physical Rehabilitation

Dr. Spencer commonly prescribes specific strengthening exercises for her patients with back, neck, and extremity problems. These exercises can decrease pain, prevent muscle deterioration, promote joint health, increase strength, stability and range of motion, and protect against new or recurring injuries.

Dr. Spencer will show you how to do the exercises and supervise you until you are comfortable doing them on you own. It's important to keep up with your exercises as prescribed (similarly to drug prescriptions). Studies show that individuals who follow their exercise instructions heal faster than those who do not.

Back to Top | Privacy Policy | Home
© 2006 Spencer Chiropractic, LLC. — All rights reserved.
 
Web site by Rich Spencer Design