While chiropractors are best known for their spinal manipulations, there are a variety of different treatment modalities that Equilibrium chiropractors use to best serve their patients’ needs. Activator, Drop Table, Ultrasound, Microcurrent… Maybe you’ve experienced some of these treatments but you’re not sure what exactly they do and why they’re used, or maybe you want to know what your options are. We’ve compiled a list of the most common modalities we use in our clinic with descriptions of why and when they are used.

If you ever have questions about a specific modality your doctor is using, don’t hesitate to ask for more information. We love educating our patients about their treatment and their health options!

Activator

The Activator is a small, spring-loaded instrument that delivers a quick, low-force impulse at specific points. The speed of the impact can help the patient remain relaxed rather than tensing muscles in anticipation, and the specificity of the instrument allows for localized adjustments without putting the joint in any compromising positions.

Drop Table

Our chiropractic treatment rooms are equipped with what is called a drop table. The drop table has individual sections that can be set up to drop away in a controlled manner when the chiropractor performs a thrust toward the joints of the spine or extremities. This allows lighter force to be used for an effective adjustment, which is easier on the patient’s body as well as the chiropractor’s. Some patients also like that the sound of the drop table covers up the “cracking” sound that sometimes occurs during adjustments.

Ultrasound

Isn’t that for pregnant women? Yes, ultrasound imaging is used for prenatal check-ups, but the applications of ultrasound imaging and ultrasound therapy are numerous. Ultrasound waves create deep heat therapy that is applied to the soft tissues and joints. This creates a micro-massage, helping to reduce pain, stiffness, and spasms; increasing blood flow, and accelerating the healing process. Ultrasound therapy allows practitioners to treat a wider variety of ailments effectively and in a safe way.

Microcurrent Therapy

Microcurrent therapy is similar to ultrasound, but instead of sound waves, electrical waves are applied to the body to provide pain relief. Your body has a natural electrical current that allows cells to communicate. When you have an injury, these electromagnetic signals are disrupted or diminished, causing your cells to work less efficiently. Microcurrent therapy helps to restore cellular communication and helps injured cells repair themselves.

A similar technique is used in acupuncture wherein electric currents are directed through acupuncture needles into acupoints. This treatment has been widely used for arthritis, pain relief, and chemotherapy-induced nausea.