Does That Activator Thing Really Work? | Chiropractic Care and Massage (2024)

By Dr. Ronald "Chip" Weisel, II31 Comments Chiropractic Care Activator, Activator Adjusting Instrument, Activator Methods

It happened again the other day. A new patient came into the office for an evaluation and chiropractic adjustment. She’d been a long time chiropractic consumer, and had visited several other chiropractors in the past. She and her family recently moved to the area, so she was looking for a new chiropractor.

I love this type of new patient. They are in essence “pre-qualified” before they walk through the door. They love chiropractic care, and want to pick up where they left off with their last chiropractor. But I’ve learned to ask one last question before they begin their care at our office.

“Are you aware that I use the Activator Method exclusively?”

“Yes, I saw it on your website,” she said. “One of my other chiropractors used it on my neck sometimes.” But, I could tell by the expression on her face she was somewhat apprehensive.

“Was it a good experience?” I asked.

“Not exactly,” she said. “It didn’t seem to really work.”

“Was the doctor certified in the Activator Method?”

“I don’t know,” she replied. “Does that matter?”

“Absolutely,” I said. “Activator Methods certifies and re-credentials its doctors regularly to ensure that the technique is applied with the latest advances.”

My patient looked at me quizzically.

And there it was. I had just encountered yet another patient who thought they had an Activator experience, when in reality they did not.

What Is Activator?

In the chiropractic profession, Activator means two distinct things: 1) An adjusting instrument used to manipulate dysfunctioning joints, and 2) An assessment procedure using leg-length analysis to determine where, when, and when not to perform an adjustment.

Patients often confuse the two. But, it’s not really the patient’s fault. Chiropractors often confuse the two as well.

While any licensed chiropractor or chiropractic student can purchase an Activator, training, and certification in the use of the instrument are voluntary. This means that although most chiropractors own an Activator (or claim to use one), where, when, and why they use the Activator instrument varies immensely.

Why Does a Doctor Use an Activator Instrument?

Chiropractors generally use an Activator instrument to perform a spinal adjustment. But, there are two major schools of thought when it comes to determining why a person needs a spinal adjustment.

Chiropractic is based on the principle that spinal joint dysfunction interferes with the nervous system. Therefore, chiropractic doctors test for spinal joint dysfunction and/or interference with the nervous system to determine if the person needs a spinal adjustment. Depending on the chiropractor’s clinical experience or where they went to chiropractic school, they tend to have more clinical confidence in detecting one versus the other.

If the chiropractor has more of a “joint dysfunction” perspective, he/she will ultimately rely on tests for spinal misalignment or loss of spinal joint mobility to diagnose where to make a spinal adjustment. As a result, he/she will often thrust multiple times on one area in an effort to “move the bone” or increase spinal joint mobility. Sort of like you would use a hammer to break loose or free something that is stuck.

However, if the chiropractor has more of a “nerve interference” perspective, he/she will ultimately rely on tests for interference with the nervous system (leg length analysis, neurological reflexes) to diagnose where to make a spinal adjustment. As a result, he/she will thrust one time on an area in an effort to “reset the nervous system” or restore spinal balance. Sort of like you reset a GFIC outlet by simply pushing in a RESET button.

The Preponderance of Evidence

Research and the clinical consensus of experts trained in using the Activator adjusting instrument indicate that if you are manipulating a dsyfunctional joint, one thrust per area works best. To date, over 20 clinical trials have been published comparing the outcomes of Activator Methods care to traditional chiropractic manipulation. Each and every one of these trials demonstrated equivalent outcomes regardless of which method was used. That means based on the evidence, the “Activator thing” really does work.

Ironically, in the one neck pain trial that had a higher proportion of temporary adverse effects (increased neck pain, mild radiating pain, mild headache, mild fatigue, etc.) than manual manipulation, “the analytical procedure associated with Activator Methods was not used.” That means there is at least some evidence that how and why one uses the Activator likely matters a great deal.

The Activator Works When It’s Used Correctly

The Activator Method uses specific protocols to detect spinal joint dysfunction that focuses on analyzing leg-length inequality and testing neurological reflexes to determine where, when, and when not to perform an adjustment. In addition, the Activator Method uses only one thrust per area of contact to initiate the process of restoring spinal balance in the patient.

If your Activator Methods experience did not include leg-length testing, or if it involved repeated or multiple thrusts with the Activator on each area, you did not have a true experience. In fact, unless you have had an Activator Methods experience from a doctor who has a current Proficiency Rating in the Activator Methods chiropractic technique, you do not really know whether or not this method is right for you.

The Activator website maintains a current worldwide directory of qualified chiropractors.In order to get qualified, a chiropractor must be licensed and have earned at least a Proficiency Rating in the Activator Method Chiropractic Technique. Licensed chiropractors who earn this exclusive designation have attended an Activator Methods seminar in the past year, and have successfully passed written and practical examinations.

If you haven’t already, you owe it to yourself to try the world’s #1 instrument-adjusting technique with a doctor who knows how to use it. Owning a hammer doesn’t make one a carpenter, right? Neither does owning an Activator mean your chiropractor knows how to use it effectively.

The Activator provides a controlled, fast thrust that is comfortable for the patient. Adjustments with the device are so quick and measured that the body’s muscles are less likely to resist, allowing for a more gentle and effective adjustment.

Does That Activator Thing Really Work? | Chiropractic Care and Massage (2024)

FAQs

Does That Activator Thing Really Work? | Chiropractic Care and Massage? ›

Each and every one of these trials demonstrated equivalent outcomes regardless of which method was used. That means based on the evidence, the “Activator thing” really does work.

Does the activator chiropractic method work? ›

The Activator is FDA approved. Prior to its approval, the theory and function of the device was researched for more than 30 years. It was then tested on numerous individuals with back and neck pain for 15 years. It was found to be safe and effective for performing chiropractic adjustments.

Does the torque release technique really work? ›

There are a lot of benefits to TRT over traditional chiropractic techniques. It allows your body to heal itself. With minimal force, this technique encourages the nervous system to correct itself. Eventually, your spine will move to its proper alignment and a host of other health benefits will follow.

What is the activator adjustment at the chiropractor? ›

Activator Adjustment

During a typical adjustment with the Activator instrument, the chiropractor applies the device to the tissues at or near the affected joint. An initial pressure is followed by a quick thrust from the device, which feels much like having one's reflex tested by tapping the knee.

What is the activator method for sciatica? ›

Activator Method

Our chiropractor uses a handheld device called an Activator to apply quick, low-amplitude bursts of force to your spine. If the sciatic nerve roots are restricted by a specific spinal problem, we may use this treatment method.

Do activators actually work? ›

Some chiropractors use the device because they find it is a more precise way of manipulating the spine. Due to the speed of the instrument, muscles are less likely to tense during treatment. Evidence suggests that the Activator is also capable of localizing treatment to a small area, such as a single vertebrae.

What does an activator do to spine? ›

The device sends a gentle impulse into the joint and moves it into proper position. The Activator technique corrects the misalignment without excessive force, twisting or cracking. The muscles in the injured area do not have time to guard against the quick impulse so the joint moves easily.

What is the new technique of chiropractic? ›

Torque Release Technique (TRT), developed by Dr. Jay Holder D.C, M.D, is a newer chiropractic method that uses a specialized handheld recoil tool called the Integrator, which is gentle on patients spines and targets pain points with more precision while in a relaxed face down position.

Does active release technique really work? ›

ART is an effective treatment for a variety of conditions and injuries of the soft tissues, such as overuse and sports injuries. It can help relieve pain and stiffness and help restore your range of motion so you can return to your favorite activities.

What is the pressure gun used by chiropractors? ›

Activator Method Treatment

The Activator Method chiropractic technique uses a spring-loaded, hand-held mechanical instrument called the Activator adjusting instrument. This instrument allows chiropractors to provide a quick, low-force impulse at specific points.

How do you know if the chiropractic adjustment is working? ›

Signs that chiropractic treatment is working may include reduced pain and discomfort, increased flexibility and range of motion, improved posture, better sleep quality, enhanced overall well-being, and a decreased reliance on pain medication or other treatments.

What is released when you get adjusted by a chiropractor? ›

During an adjustment, a chiropractor will apply pressure to certain areas of the spine, encouraging the joints and vertebrae to realign. This can result in the release of gases, such as oxygen and nitrogen, from the joints, which may cause a popping sound.

How many adjustments should a chiropractor do? ›

Common Chiropractic Adjustment Frequencies

To achieve maximum benefits, most injury and pain types will need somewhere between four and twelve sessions. Ongoing maintenance is used to prevent pain from coming back and to prevent additional injuries from forming due to a misalignment of the spine.

What is the permanent solution for sciatica? ›

If conservative sciatica treatments like exercise and physiotherapy don't work, you may be eligible for decompression surgery on your spine to treat sciatica. This involves an operation to remove a spinal bone or damaged disc section, relieving pressure on your trapped nerve.

What is the most successful treatment for sciatica? ›

You can usually treat a mild case of sciatica yourself with a combination of heat, ice, over-the-counter pain medication, and stretching and strengthening exercises. For more severe pain, your doctor might recommend physical therapy, steroid injections, or surgery.

What is the number one exercise for sciatica? ›

The safest way to work out with sciatica is to look for low-impact (usually cardio) exercises. The most common options are: Riding a stationary bike. Walking.

What is the best technique for chiropractors? ›

There is no one chiropractic technique that is best universally. However, according to the 2023 review, the diversified technique is the most common. Since chiropractic techniques aim to improve joint function and motion, the best technique may be the one that best succeeds for the individual.

Does chiropractic manipulative therapy work? ›

Chiropractic adjustment can be effective in treating low back pain, although much of the research done shows only a modest benefit — similar to the results of more-conventional treatments.

Does pro adjuster really work? ›

The Pro-Adjuster accurately determines whether the vertebrae is out of position by applying a very light mechanical force to the spine. The amount of this force is equivalent to tapping your fingers on a table.

What does the clicker do that chiropractors use? ›

The Handheld Adjusting Tool, also know as an Activator, is a spring loaded device that when used applies a very quick, specific force to a joint to help restore movement, and it has been shown to be effective in helping spinal pain and Trigger Point (Muscle) Pain.

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