Definitions of Chiropractic terms as used by Back 2 Back Chiropractic in Canton, GA. 22 terms defined.
The Activator Method is a chiropractic technique that uses a small, handheld spring-loaded instrument to deliver a quick, low-force impulse to targeted vertebrae. It is considered gentler than manual adjustments and is often preferred for patients who want a lower-force approach, including seniors and children.
A cervical adjustment is a chiropractic manipulation targeting the seven vertebrae of the neck. It is used to relieve neck pain, headaches, and stiffness while restoring proper motion to the joints. Techniques range from manual thrusts to low-force instrument adjustments depending on patient needs.
Cold laser therapy, also called low-level laser therapy, uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular repair and reduce inflammation. It is a non-invasive, painless treatment often used for soft tissue injuries, joint pain, and chronic conditions. Sessions typically last only a few minutes per area.
Degenerative disc disease is an age-related condition where spinal discs lose hydration, height, and flexibility, leading to pain and reduced mobility. It commonly affects the lower back and neck. Chiropractic care, spinal decompression, and targeted exercises may help manage symptoms and slow progression.
The Diversified Technique is the most widely used chiropractic adjustment method, involving manual thrusts to restore proper joint alignment and motion. It is known for the characteristic popping sound and is typically applied to the spine, pelvis, and extremities to address a broad range of musculoskeletal conditions.
Electrical muscle stimulation, or e-stim, uses low-level electrical currents delivered through skin electrodes to reduce pain, ease muscle spasms, and promote healing. It is often used as a complementary therapy alongside chiropractic adjustments to relax tight muscles and improve circulation in the treatment area.
A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in its tougher outer layer. This can irritate nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs. Non-surgical chiropractic treatments like spinal decompression may help manage symptoms.
A lumbar adjustment focuses on the lower back, where five large vertebrae bear much of the body's weight. Chiropractors use this technique to address low back pain, sciatica, and stiffness caused by misalignment or muscle imbalance. Proper lumbar function is essential for posture and mobility.
Myofascial release is a manual therapy technique that applies sustained pressure to the connective tissue, or fascia, surrounding muscles. It helps eliminate pain, restore motion, and release tightness in restricted areas. Chiropractors often combine it with adjustments for a more complete musculoskeletal treatment.
Postural correction is a treatment approach that addresses poor posture habits contributing to spinal misalignment, muscle imbalances, and chronic pain. It typically includes chiropractic adjustments, ergonomic guidance, and corrective exercises. Improved posture reduces strain on the spine and supports long-term musculoskeletal health.
Prenatal chiropractic care uses gentle, pregnancy-safe techniques to relieve back pain, hip discomfort, and pelvic misalignment during pregnancy. Adjustments help maintain proper pelvic balance, which may support easier labor and delivery. Chiropractors often use specialized tables and the Webster Technique for expecting mothers.
Range of motion refers to how far a joint can move in different directions before being restricted by surrounding tissues. Chiropractors measure it during exams to assess injury, stiffness, or dysfunction. Improving range of motion is a common goal of adjustments, stretching, and rehabilitative therapy.
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction refers to pain caused by abnormal motion or misalignment of the SI joints, which connect the spine to the pelvis. It often results in lower back, hip, or buttock pain. Chiropractic adjustments and stabilization exercises are commonly used to restore function.
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. It is typically caused by a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis compressing the nerve. Chiropractic care often helps relieve pressure and reduce symptoms.
A spinal adjustment, also called spinal manipulation, is a hands-on technique where a chiropractor applies controlled force to a specific joint of the spine. The goal is to restore mobility, reduce nerve irritation, and improve overall alignment. Patients often hear a popping sound caused by gas releasing from the joint.
Spinal decompression is a non-surgical therapy that gently stretches the spine using a motorized traction table. This creates negative pressure within the discs, which may help retract herniated or bulging material and promote healing. It is commonly used for chronic back pain, sciatica, and degenerative disc disease.
Sports chiropractic is a specialty focused on treating and preventing injuries in athletes and active individuals. It combines adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and rehabilitation exercises to improve performance, speed recovery, and address issues like sprains, strains, and joint dysfunction common in sports.
A subluxation is a partial misalignment of the vertebrae in the spine that can interfere with nerve function and cause pain, stiffness, or reduced range of motion. Chiropractors identify subluxations through physical exams and imaging, then correct them with targeted adjustments to restore proper joint mechanics.
Tech neck is a repetitive strain injury caused by prolonged forward head posture while looking down at phones, tablets, or computers. It leads to neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and upper back tension. Chiropractic care, posture correction, and stretching exercises are commonly recommended to manage the condition.
Trigger point therapy focuses on relieving tight knots within muscles that refer pain to other areas of the body. Practitioners apply direct pressure to these points to release tension and improve blood flow. It is often used alongside chiropractic care to address chronic muscle pain and headaches.
The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment method designed for pregnant women. It focuses on balancing pelvic alignment, muscles, and ligaments to reduce tension and create optimal space for the baby. Many midwives and OB-GYNs refer patients for this technique in the third trimester.
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a rapid back-and-forth motion of the head, most often from rear-end car accidents. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and reduced range of motion. Chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue therapy can help restore mobility and reduce inflammation.