"Will you crack my back?" is one of the first things new patients ask. Sometimes, and only if you are comfortable with it. There are several ways to adjust a joint, and a chiropractor on the Sunshine Coast will normally be trained in more than one. This is a plain guide to the techniques used at our clinics.
Manual adjusting and Gonstead
This is the hands-on adjustment most people picture: a quick, controlled movement applied to one joint, sometimes with a popping sound. That sound is gas releasing within the joint. Gonstead is a specific-contact form of manual adjusting that relies on a detailed examination, and X-ray where it is warranted, to identify the segment to be adjusted. It suits people who are comfortable with a firmer adjustment.
Diversified
Diversified is the most widely taught manual method. It uses a short, precise thrust to restore movement to a restricted joint, in the spine or in the limbs. Julie Hunter uses it as her main approach at Nambour.
Activator
The Activator is a small hand-held instrument that delivers a fast, light impulse to a single joint. There is no twisting and no cracking sound. It is commonly chosen for people who are nervous about manual adjusting, older patients, children, and areas that are too sore for a manual technique. All of our chiropractors are trained in it.
Drop table
A drop table has sections that give way by a couple of centimetres as the adjustment is made, so less force is needed. It is often used for the pelvis, hips and lower back.
Need to see someone on the Sunshine Coast?
Our chiropractors and physiotherapists consult in Mooloolaba and Nambour six days a week — same-day appointments are often available.
SOT and cranial work
Sacro-Occipital Technique uses padded wedges placed under the pelvis so that your own body weight does the work. It is slow and gentle, and is often used for people who do not tolerate firmer techniques.
How the technique is chosen
| Technique | Force | Sound | Often chosen for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual / Gonstead / Diversified | Moderate | Sometimes a pop | Patients comfortable with a hands-on adjustment |
| Activator | Very light | A click from the instrument | Nervous, older or younger patients; sore areas |
| Drop table | Light | The table dropping | Pelvis, hips and lower back |
| SOT | Minimal | None | People who prefer the gentlest option |
The choice depends on your examination findings, your age and build, any conditions that rule out a firmer technique, and your preference. Most care also includes soft-tissue work, exercise and advice.
You can state a preference
If you would rather not have a manual adjustment, tell us when you book or at the start of your visit. It is a common request. Each practitioner's techniques are listed on their profile on the team page, and the wider process is on our chiropractic care page.
Next step
Call (07) 5478 2333 for Mooloolaba or (07) 5441 4768 for Nambour, or book online.
