How Automatic Flexion Distraction Tables Can Increase the Benefits of Chiropractic Care

While a talented chiropractor can do wonders to improve a patient's physical health, he can only do so with the right tools. A quality adjustment table is the most important tool for a chiropractor—beyond his own hands.

Chiropractic tables come in several different styles and designs intended for different chiropractic methods. One of the most effective and popular methods is flexion distraction, and we will explore below how these automatic flexion distraction tables maximize the benefits of chiropractic care.

First, we will examine why so many people choose chiropractic care to improve their overall health and quality of life.

Chiropractic Care: Treating More than Just the Spine

Many people think of chiropractic care as something to seek after a fender bender or a necessity only for older patients who may have more wear and tear on their spines. In fact, chiropractic care can begin at a young age and enhance health and well-being for a lifetime.

Chiropractic care is especially helpful for those suffering from neck or back pain, but a misaligned spine can also affect many other areas of our health and the way our bodies function. Chiropractic adjustments that improve spinal alignment can also:

• Help us target and reduce inflammation in our bodies, which is the root cause of many ailments
• Boost the immune system to stave off common colds and other minor illnesses
• Enhance and increase flexibility and range of motion, making exercise more enjoyable
• Increase our lung function by helping us breathe more deeply without back pain
• Improve our sleep quality

In addition to these benefits, some chiropractic patients find that regular adjustments can help reduce allergy symptoms, improve digestive functions, and even lower blood pressure.

Chiropractic Techniques: An Overview

Most chiropractic clinics will specialize in a particular technique or combine several of the methods below.

Activator: With this method, the chiropractor uses a handheld tool to create gentle impulses on the spine. It is among the most gentle methods, which is one of the reasons it is so popular. Sometimes, injured or elderly patients can only tolerate gentle pressure, and the activator method works well on them.

Diversified: This method relies on hands-on thrusts of pressure to realign the spine. It is widely used to help patients restore range of motion and reduce back and neck pain.

Flexion Distraction: This method requires a specially designed automatic flexion distraction table and involves a gentle stretching motion while the patient's ankles are secured in place. This gentle technique is especially good for treating herniated discs.

Gonstead: The hallmark feature of the Gonstead method is that a patient lies on her side; from that position, the chiropractor adjusts the pelvis and lower back to alleviate pressure and pain.

Thompson (Drop Table): Another method that requires a specially designed table, the Thompson technique employs a quick dropping motion and the force of the table to adjust the spine. An added benefit of a drop table is the fact that it puts less strain and risk of injury on the chiropractor, who can rely on the table to do much of the work for them.

The Benefits of Automatic Flexion Distraction Tables

Most industry estimates suggest that a little more than half of all chiropractors use automatic flexion distraction tables and techniques as a regular part of their practice. Not only is it a proven and effective method but it can also be useful in terms of alleviating the fears and concerns of some nervous first-timers.

The idea of chiropractic adjustments can overwhelm some patients, and providers are able to demonstrate flexion distraction as a safe and gentle way to address the spine. It also gives chiropractors a tool to address so many of the conditions and injuries that bring patients to their doors, including:

• Arthritis
• Bulging or herniated discs
• Lower back pain
• Scoliosis
• Spinal stenosis

Flexion distraction can also be used in combination with other techniques as needed. Both chiropractors and their patients are often extremely satisfied with the benefits they see from regular flexion distraction work, including

• Relief from pain and stiffness
• An increased range of motion and improved mobility
• Better posture and improved disc health
• Elimination of numbness that affects not only the back but can also extend to the arms and legs

Flexion distraction is a proven and trusted technique for managing bulging or herniated discs. It will often be the chiropractor's first line of defense when it comes to new patients who are shown to suffer in this way. Flexion distraction is also extremely beneficial in that it may prevent or delay the need for a surgical procedure.

Is Flexion Distraction Right for Me?

If you are a patient considering flexion distraction, discuss the treatment with both your primary care provider and your chiropractor if you have specific concerns. For example, if you are recovering from surgery, you may only be a candidate for the technique once your recovery is complete. Your healthcare providers will know what is best for you based on your unique circumstances.

If you are a chiropractor, physical therapist, or medical spa owner considering exam chairs and tables, contact Spa Source for more information on the high-quality equipment we offer to outfit your practice and ensure client safety and satisfaction.

We can set you up with everything from tables for flexion distraction techniques to magnifier lamps and more.