Question : What exactly does a chiropractor look for when adjusting your spine and neck?
I am doing a project on chiropractic care. I would like to know what exactly does a chiropractor look for when they are checking your spine. Like when they run their hands down your back, what do they look for. And how do they know where to apply pressure? Please help me understand the process of their methods and techniques. Thank you!
chiropractor

Best answer:

Answer by DrWendy
There are many techniques used for detecting subluxations. The most common utilize x-rays, motion palpation, and static palpation.

Chiropractors are trained to detect slight misalignments (subluxations), via a series of measurements, in plain film radiographs (x-rays). Most of these x-rays need to be taken in a weight-bearing position (ie: standing) in order to visualize how the vertebrae relate to one another in stress. Some chiropractors also use motion x-rays (flouroscopy) to get a picture of how they relate to one another in motion.

Motion palpation is used to help the chiropractor feel any restricted motion between vertebrae. Most chiropractors spend years practicing this, as it’s truly an art. It’s difficult to feel when there is a slight decrease in motion between segments (vertebrae). A lot of practice is also necessary to be cognizant of the slight differences in the movements between vertebrae in different areas of the spine.

Static palpation is what the chiropractor is doing when he or she is running his hand down your spine. What they’re looking for is difference in skin temperature, sudoriferous (sweating) changes, swelling, and any discomfort elicited in the patient.

Other ways to detect subluxation include leg-length analysis, muscle testing, and reflex testing. Many of the above are used along with these for the most accurate findings.

As far as techniques go, there are too many to be able to explain them all here. If you want more info on techniques you can look them up individually. Here are a few to start with: Gonstead, Toggle, Diversified, Thomson, Activator, Nucca, Network, Pettibon, and Sacro-occipital Technique (SOT).

Good luck with your project!