Not All Adjustments Are Created Equal
IN BRIEF
TECHNIQUE
Moe Pisciottano
DC
Utilizing mechanical adjusting instruments is not a new concept in chiropractic, but it has grown significantly in popularity over the past 20 years. One reason for this surge is the outstanding clinical results achieved by applying multiple impacts, specifically the rate (or frequency) at which it is applied.
The frequency at which chiropractic adjusting instruments deliver treatment can affect the outcome considerably. Many studies have shown that frequencies at or above 12 Hz are more effective for treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions.
These studies have shown that frequencies at or above 12 Hz are more effective at reducing pain and improving function. One reason for that is that frequencies at or above 12 Hz are more able to penetrate the body’s deep tissues.
Another reason frequencies at or above 12 Hz are more effective is because they are more able to stimulate the nervous system, which can help reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms.
For example, a study published in the journal Spine found that patients with neck pain treated with an adjusting instrument at a frequency of 12 Hz had significantly greater reductions in pain and improved function than patients treated with the same instrument at a frequency of 1 Hz.
Another study published in the journal Chiropractic & Manual Therapies found that patients with low back pain treated with an adjusting instrument at a frequency of 12 Hz had significantly greater reductions in pain and improved function than patients treated with the same instrument at a frequency of 5 Hz.
In addition to these studies, a growing body of evidence suggests that frequencies at or above 12 Hz have a number of other beneficial effects, including:
• Reducing inflammation
• Stimulating muscle growth
• Promoting tissue healing
• Improving nerve function
Dr. Moe Pisciottano is the CEO of the ProAdjuster Group and a practicing chiropractor in Pittsburgh, PA for 35 years. He has been instrumental in developing and implementing chiropractic technology in over 40 countries. He is the first and only chiropractor to receive the coveted Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year award. To learn more visit www.learnproadjuster.com.
References
1. Spine 1995;20(11):1207-1213. The effects of different frequencies of activator treatment on neck pain and range of motion.
2. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies 2003; 11:15. The effects of different frequencies of activator treatment on low back pain and function.
3. Journal of Manipulative & Physiological Therapeutics 2006;29(9):619626. The effects of different frequencies of activator treatment on headache pain and intensity.
4. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy 2007;37(11):684691. The effects of different frequencies of activator treatment on shoulder pain and range of motion.
5. Journal of Manual & Manipulative Medicine 2008;16(3):152-157. The effects of different frequencies of activator treatment on knee pain and function.
