Chiropractic Technique Spotlight: Diversified Technique

Diversified Technique is perhaps the most commonly used technique by modern chiropractors. It uses hands-on force to create change.

The forces used by a chiropractor using the Diversified Technique are known as HVLA thrusts. This stands for high-velocity, low-amplitude, and basically translates to quick and specific adjustments.

When receiving a Diversified adjustment, the patient will be instructed to assume a position on the table. This could be face down, face up, seated, or side-lying. The doctor will place one or two hands on the specific area of the body that will be getting adjusted. For example, if the doctor is trying to adjust your mid back, you will feel one or two hands on one or both sides of your spine.

After the doctor places their hands in the correct position(s), you will feel some pressure as they bring you to “pre-tension.” By adding some force before the HVLA thrust, the chiropractor is reducing the amount they have to move your body and the force they have to use to complete the adjustment. This protects you and ensures the adjustment won’t be uncomfortable.

After reaching pre-tension, the chiropractor will deliver the small HVLA thrust, and you may experience a sense of release or hear the “popping” sounds normally associated with chiropractic. Rest assured, nothing is breaking, these sounds are simply the result of motion in the spinal segments.