Activator Method Adjustments

The activator method chiropractic technique is a treatment that uses a device as an alternative to manual manipulation of the spine. At Wetherington Chiropractic Clinic, we find many patients who benefit from this type of technique.

The device is categorized as a mechanical force manual-assisted instrument, which is generally regarded as a much softer chiropractic treatment technique than the regular chiropractic adjustments by hand.

The activator is a small handheld spring-loaded instrument that delivers a small impulse to the spine. Dr. Wetherington first locates a vertebra that is out of alignment, positions the activator in just the right location, and then gently squeezes the handle.

When the activator releases, it gives off around 0.3 J of kinetic energy in a 3-millisecond pulse. The aim is to produce enough force to move the vertebrae back into place but not enough to cause injury.

There are two theoretical advantages of an activator instrument-assisted treatment.

The first is based on the speed of the device. The instrument is so quick that the body’s muscles are less likely to tense in response, and resist the treatment. The lack of muscle resistance may facilitate the treatment effectiveness. The second is that the applied force is localized and there is no twisting or turning with this method, which many of our patients seem to enjoy.

If you think that the activator method may work for you, let Dr. Wetherington know. Schedule a free consultation at either our Savannah or Pooler location. Each patient responds to treatment differently and know that whatever treatment plan we come up with is the right one for you.