What does it mean if a chiropractor is rated as "Advanced Proficiency" with Activator Methods International?

Well, it is the highest honor bestowed on a chiropractor whose goal is to serve patients with a thorough chiropractic analysis at every visit and to treat patients with research-tested low-force chiropractic adjustments.

Activator Methods only bestows Advanced Proficiency Ratings on doctors who demonstrate knowledge of the technique through written and practical testing, who are committed to using the Activator Methods technique to serve patients, and who continue their education in the Activator Method on an annual basis. Thismeans that patients who are treated by an Advanced Proficiency chiropractor can be confident that their doctor has the latest knowledge, tools, and resources for their care.

The Activator Chiropractic Technique is a gentle, low-force approach to chiropractic care. The technique has been used safely on patients of all ages since the late 1960s, bringing relief to people with a variety of health concerns. Incorporating the latest advances in orthopedic, neurological and chiropractic examinations, this unique system of administering spinal adjustments using research-based analysis and the Activator Adjusting Instrument can help restore spinal balance safely and comfortably.

How does the Activator work?

Restoring spinal balance effectively and gentle nature, the Activator Method has grown to become the world’s most widely-used instrument chiropractic technique. The technique utilizes specific protocols to detect spinal joint dysfunction, analyze leg length inequality, identify issues with body mechanics, and test neurological reflexes. By analyzing results of these examinations, an Activator doctor can initiate the process of restoring spinal balance in the patient, gently and effectively.

The Activator Adjusting Instrument is the tool more doctors choose to deliver low-force chiropractic adjustments. This unique hand-held instrument has been studied extensively with results published in hundreds of peer-reviewed research papers, and was designed to give patients a specific and gentle adjustment.

The Activator provides a controlled, fast thrust that is comfortable for the patient. In fact, adjustments with the Activator are so quick and measured, the body’s muscles are less likely to resist, allowing for a more precise and accurate adjustment.

Patients from all ages can enjoy the benefits of an Activator adjustment. The technique is especially helpful for children who sometimes have trouble laying still. The Activator adjustment is so quick and comfortable, children often look forward to their next visit! Older patients, or those with arthritis, osteoporosis or other bone-weakening conditions find the Activator Method to be effective and gentle. The low-force thrust of the Activator Adjusting Instrument, and the doctor’s ability to pin point the exact location of the problem through Activator analysis, can relieve a patient’s pain without discomfort.

Chiropractic is a healing art that recognizes the nervous system as the primary determining factor of a person's health. The human nervous system regulates all life-sustaining functions such as movement, blood circulation, digestion, breathing, and immunity from disease. The nervous system is comprised of the brain and spinal cord, which resides inside the spine. Nerves branch out from the spinal cord, exit from between the bones of the spine (vertebrae), and divide numerous times until every cell in the body is reached. Nerves are like electrical wires that run through our body, and the brain is like a "generator" sending electrical impulses through these nerves to every single cell, telling them what to do. Thanks to this miraculous system, living in good health is possible-our digestive system automatically converts our meals into living tissue; our lungs automatically take in and extract oxygen from air; cuts and wounds automatically heal; and invading germs are automatically attacked and destroyed. Whenever the nervous system is functioning properly, optimum health is possible.

The spine, although designed to protect the spinal cord and its delicate nerves, very often does the opposite. In the course of living, we encounter minor and major trauma to the spine, such as the birthing (delivery) process, slips and falls, sporting accidents, car accidents (whiplash), repetitive/cumulative trauma associated with work (typing, lifting) or a hobby (tennis, crocheting, etc.); poor posture, and obesity. Over time, these events can cause the spine to change shape, or misalign, and irritate the nerves within. This results in body dysfunction and ill-health. Symptoms of spinal misalignment can include pain, numbness, and tingling in the spine or limbs; chronic headaches; frequent colds, and the feeling of fatigue and stress.

Why an adjustment is done

Most often people seek chiropractic adjustment as a remedy for pain conditions, including: Low back pain Neck pain Headache, Sciatica, numbness and tingling.

Each year in the United States, 1 in 4 adults experiences low back pain — a condition that can be frustrating and difficult to treat. Low back pain is the main reason why people seek chiropractic care. Research shows that chiropractic adjustment may offer mild to moderate relief from low back pain.

Chiropractic was developed in 1895 by Brian David Palmer. He found that by working with the spine to remove fixations, could also give substantial pain relief. While Chiropractic has been predominately used as a way to relieve neck and back pain, it has also become a way of pursuing health and well being for many. Chiropractic is and should be part of every person's overall health regimen. By creating better motion in the spine, it helps the joints of the spine stay healthier longer and delays the onset of the degenerative processes that often affect the spine.