Chiropractors

Short-lever techniques take a more subtle approach. Rather than torquing or twisting the body, the patient is kept in a neutral position, usually lying facedown on the table. Instead of applying pressure to the leg, arm, or shoulder, the chiropractor puts his or her hands right on the affected vertebra and pushes on it in a very specific direction.

Often this type of chiropractic utilizes a piece of equipment called a drop table. Drop tables are intricately constructed so that different sections of the body can be positioned at a particular level. When the chiropractic thrust is applied, that section of the table drops by a certain amount in response. The drop is only a small amount, less than an inch. Using a drop table actually makes the adjustment less forceful and more precise, as the table absorbs most of the energy of the adjustment.

In some cases, chiropractors will find it necessary to use high-force adjustments to free a joint or bone that is locked in such a way that medium force will not release it. The principle of long-lever adjusting is used, but the chiropractor applies more energy to the thrust. High-force adjustments are rare, however, since most chiropractors prefer to use the least amount of force necessary to release the joint and eliminate the subluxation.

It's useful to know the level of force your chiropractor uses for the adjustments. If you go to a low-force chiropractor expecting a more forceful adjustment, you probably will be disappointed. On the other hand, if you are sensitive to pressure or pain, or if you are worried about having an adjustment for any reason, a low-force chiropractor may seem gentler and more suited to your needs.

The good news is that most chiropractic techniques work regardless of their level of force, the equipment used, even the area of the spine to be treated. Which one you choose is simply based on your own individual taste.