The tools a chiropractor uses

Table

Thompson Drop Table

A Thompson drop table is a padded adjusting table built with sections that can be raised slightly and then drop a short distance. The drop happens when the chiropractor applies a quick, light pressure to the body. It is a standard piece of equipment in many chiropractic offices.

What it is used for. A chiropractor uses this table to help move a joint while the drop takes up part of the force, so the manual push can be gentler. During your visit you lie on the table and feel a brief downward motion under the area being worked on. Many people notice a soft clunk sound as the section drops.

Instrument

Activator Adjusting Instrument

The activator is a small handheld spring loaded device that delivers a quick, light thrust to a specific spot on the body. It is designed to move a joint with a controlled, low force impulse rather than a manual push by hand. It fits in the palm of the hand and makes a clicking sound when triggered.

What it is used for. A chiropractor uses this instrument to apply a targeted, gentle force to a joint or muscle area, which can be an option for people who prefer a lighter touch. When it is used, you feel a fast tapping sensation on your skin. It is often chosen for sensitive areas or for patients who want to avoid a manual adjustment.

Table

Flexion Distraction Table

A flexion distraction table has a movable lower section that can bend, lower, and stretch while you lie face down. The chiropractor guides this motion by hand or with a motor as they contact your spine. The table allows the lower back to move through gentle ranges of motion.

What it is used for. A chiropractor uses this table to apply a slow stretching and rocking motion to the lower back, which may be used for people with disc or nerve related complaints. As the table moves, you feel a gradual pulling and gentle bending through your lower spine. The pace is usually slow and rhythmic.

Table

Spinal Decompression Table

A spinal decompression table uses a motorized system and a harness to apply a slow, controlled pulling force along the spine. A computer sets the amount of tension and the pattern of pull and release. You are strapped in and lie still while the machine works.

What it is used for. A chiropractor uses this table to create a gentle traction along the neck or lower back, with the goal of easing pressure on spinal structures. During treatment you feel a slow stretch that builds and then relaxes in cycles. Sessions usually last several minutes while you rest on the table.

Table

Roller Intersegmental Traction Table

An intersegmental traction table, often called a roller table, has rollers under a padded surface that move slowly up and down along your spine while you lie on your back. The rollers rise gently against the back as they travel. The speed and height can usually be adjusted.

What it is used for. A chiropractor uses this table to provide a passive rolling motion along the spine, which can help you relax the muscles of the back. As the rollers move, you feel a slow kneading pressure travel from your lower back toward your upper back and return. Many people find the motion soothing and use it before or after other care.

Therapy device

Electrical Muscle Stimulation TENS

Electrical muscle stimulation is a device that sends mild electrical pulses through pads placed on the skin. A related setup called TENS uses a similar approach aimed at the nerves. The strength of the pulses is controlled with a dial or buttons.

What it is used for. A chiropractor uses this device to send gentle currents to muscles or nerves, which some people find helpful for muscle tension and discomfort. When the pads are active, you feel a tingling, buzzing, or light tapping under the skin. The intensity is set so it stays comfortable for you.

Therapy device

Therapeutic Ultrasound

Therapeutic ultrasound is a handheld device that sends sound waves into the tissue through a small wand pressed against the skin. A gel is applied first so the sound waves pass through smoothly. The sound waves are at a frequency you cannot hear.

What it is used for. A chiropractor uses this device to direct sound waves into soft tissue, which can produce a mild warming sensation in the area. During treatment the clinician moves the wand slowly over the skin in small circles. You usually feel little more than gentle warmth or nothing at all.

Therapy device

Cold Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy, also known as low level laser therapy, uses a handheld device that shines low intensity light onto the skin. It is called cold because the light does not heat or burn the tissue. The device is held over or lightly on the treatment area.

What it is used for. A chiropractor uses this device to apply low level light to an area of concern, with the aim of supporting the body's own tissue processes. During a session you usually feel little to nothing, and sometimes a slight warmth. You may be asked to wear protective eyewear while it is in use.

Therapy device

Cryotherapy Chamber

A cryotherapy chamber is an enclosed booth that surrounds the body with very cold air for a short period, usually a few minutes. You stand inside while your head stays above the top in many designs. The temperature inside is far below freezing.

What it is used for. A chiropractor or clinic may offer this as a recovery option, exposing the body to brief, intense cold. While inside you feel a strong cold sensation across your skin for the length of the session. Staff monitor the time closely and give you protective coverings for exposed areas.

Therapy device

Whole Body Vibration Plate

A whole body vibration plate is a platform that vibrates rapidly while you stand, sit, or hold a position on it. The speed and strength of the vibration can be adjusted. You steady yourself with a handrail or bar in most designs.

What it is used for. A chiropractor may use this plate to add gentle vibration while you perform simple stances or movements, which can be part of an exercise routine. Standing on it, you feel a steady buzzing or shaking travel up through your body. Sessions are typically short and supervised.

Therapy device

Cervical Traction Device

A cervical traction device applies a gentle pulling force to the neck to create a small amount of space and stretch. Some designs use a strap and weight, while others use an air cushion or a motorized unit. It can be used lying down or sitting.

What it is used for. A chiropractor uses this device to provide a light, steady stretch to the neck, which may be part of care for neck stiffness or nerve related symptoms. During use you feel a slow pull along the neck that eases the pressure. The amount of force is set to stay within a comfortable range.

Therapy device

Sequential Compression Device

A sequential compression device uses inflatable sleeves that wrap around the legs and fill with air in a set order. A pump inflates and releases each section in a wave like pattern. The tightness and timing are controlled by the unit.

What it is used for. A chiropractor or clinic may use this device to apply rhythmic squeezing along the legs, which some people use as part of recovery. While it runs, you feel a gentle pressure move up and down your legs in cycles. The squeeze is firm but should stay comfortable throughout.

Photo: ajay_suresh, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Therapy device

Percussion Massage Device

A percussion massage device is a handheld tool with a head that taps rapidly against the muscles. It is battery powered and comes with different head shapes for different areas. The speed of the tapping can usually be changed.

What it is used for. A chiropractor may use this device to apply fast tapping pressure to tight muscles, which can be part of soft tissue care. As it moves over the muscle, you feel a rapid pulsing pressure that many people describe as a deep tapping. The clinician adjusts the speed and pressure to your comfort.

Assessment

Digital Posture Analysis Scanner

A digital posture analysis scanner is a camera and software system that captures images of how you stand and hold your body. The software marks reference points and produces a report on your alignment. You simply stand in front of the scanner while it records.

What it is used for. A chiropractor uses this tool to measure and document your posture so changes can be tracked over time. During the scan you stand still for a few moments in a set position. The clinician then reviews the report with you to explain what it shows.