Activator Method

The Activator Method is a gentle, instrument-assisted chiropractic technique that replaces manual thrusts with the use of a small handheld spring-loaded device. Co-developed in the 1960s by Dr. Arlan Fuhr and Dr. Warren Lee, it was created as a precise and comfortable alternative to traditional manual adjustments that often involve twisting, popping, or cracking sounds. The philosophy behind the Activator is simple but powerful: deliver a rapid, low-force impulse to a specific spinal segment or joint. This quick motion is enough to influence joint mechanics, stimulate neurological pathways, and restore motion—without the larger amplitude forces associated with hands-on adjusting. Patients often appreciate the technique’s subtlety. Instead of the sensation of a strong manual thrust, the Activator produces a light click against the skin, typically felt as a quick tap on the spine or extremity. Despite its mild feel, many report significant relief, increased mobility, and improved nervous system function. Because of its precision and gentleness, the Activator Method is commonly used with individuals who prefer a lighter approach, including older adults, children, or those with conditions where manual adjustments might be contraindicated.

A defining feature of the Activator Method is its analysis protocol. Practitioners use a unique system that combines leg length checks with guided extremity movements to identify exactly which spinal segment is misaligned, as well as the direction of correction required. This process grew out of decades of clinical observation and data collection, where thousands of adjustments were analyzed to determine how certain limb positions or movements created measurable changes in leg balance. These findings established reliable patterns that allow chiropractors to detect dysfunction in the kinetic chain with remarkable accuracy. Another hallmark of the technique is attention to segmental specificity. Each vertebra in the spine has a slightly different angle and movement pattern compared to the levels above and below it. Activator doctors take this into account when applying the adjustment, altering the angle, depth, and direction of the instrument’s impulse to match the biomechanics of the target segment. This ensures that the correction is not only gentle but also anatomically appropriate.

The Activator Method is a blend of precision engineering and chiropractic philosophy: a gentle, data-driven, and highly specific way to correct subluxations and support nervous system health.

Applied Kinesiology

Applied Kinesiology is a diagnostic approach founded by Dr. George J. Goodheart in 1964 that links muscle strength to health imbalances. Practitioners perform muscle tests where you resist pressure on an arm or leg to identify weaknesses that correspond to specific organs or stressors in the body. Every organ dysfunction is paired with a particular muscle weakness, so by testing various muscles, chiropractors can pinpoint the viscerosomatic relationships—the connections between internal organ function and musculoskeletal patterns. Patients often report that the process is fascinating, feeling that each session is less like a standard adjustment and more like a full examination of the nervous system, body, and life itself. AK works through the nervous system by observing how muscles “switch off” or weaken when a stressor, dysfunction, or imbalance is present. Because muscles are controlled by motor neurons and influenced by sensory feedback loops, changes in muscle tone can reveal where the nervous system is under strain. For example, weakness in a specific shoulder muscle might suggest stress on the gallbladder reflex pathway, while weakness in a hip muscle could correlate with digestive or adrenal issues. In this way, muscle testing becomes a dynamic dialogue with the nervous system, allowing the practitioner to decode where stress is stored and how the body prioritizes healing. Dr. Goodheart’s breakthrough came when he discovered that restoring muscle strength through precise treatment—whether via chiropractic adjustments, nutritional support, or reflex stimulation—often led to improvements in the corresponding organ or system. This multidimensional perspective set AK apart from conventional chiropractic techniques, which often focus more exclusively on spinal alignment or joint mobility. What makes Applied Kinesiology unique is its question-and-answer method of analysis. Instead of applying the same adjustment to every patient, practitioners use muscle testing to ask the body how it is functioning and what it needs. Because this diagnostic lens can integrate with virtually any adjusting technique—Activator, Torque Release Technique (TRT), Diversified, and more—it enhances, rather than replaces, a chiropractor’s existing skillset. Applied Kinesiology remains a powerful blend of neurology, biomechanics, and holistic health—a technique that listens to the body’s signals and uses the nervous system as the ultimate guide for healing.

Atlas Orthogonal

The Atlas Orthogonal (AO) technique is a precision-based chiropractic method that focuses exclusively on the atlas—the first cervical vertebra that supports the skull. Developed by Dr. Roy W. Sweat, this upper-cervical approach uses highly detailed X-ray analysis to measure the exact degree of atlas misalignment, followed by a gentle, percussive instrument adjustment. Unlike traditional manual adjustments, AO involves no rotation or twisting. Its philosophy is: when the atlas is properly aligned, orthogonal—or at a right angle—to both the skull above and the neck below, the rest of the spine naturally rebalances itself. The atlas plays a unique role in human biomechanics. Because it is a ring-shaped bone without an intervertebral disc above or below it, even slight misalignments can disturb the mechanics of the entire cervical spine. When the atlas tilts or rotates, weight-bearing forces through the head and spine become uneven, leading to compensations throughout the body—hip tilts, shoulder imbalances, and muscular tension patterns. Restoring the atlas to its orthogonal position optimizes joint mechanics, ensuring that motion at the head-neck junction is smooth and symmetrical. Beyond structural balance, AO has significant implications for the nervous system. The atlas sits directly beneath the brainstem, surrounding the upper spinal cord. Misalignments in this area can create subtle shifts in spinal cord tension. According to dentate ligament theory, when the atlas is displaced, the dentate ligaments—fibrous connections anchoring the spinal cord to the dura mater—can transmit mechanical tension into the cord itself. This tension may interfere with neural conduction, autonomic regulation, and communication between the brain and body. Correcting atlas alignment can relieve these stresses, reducing cord distortion and restoring clarity in brain-body signaling. The adjustment itself is remarkably gentle. Patients lie comfortably on a table while the AO instrument delivers a precisely calculated tap to the side of the neck. There is no cracking, twisting, or forceful thrust. Yet many patients notice profound changes—improved posture, reduced pain, clearer thinking, or enhanced balance—after such a subtle intervention.Atlas Orthogonal is not just about moving a bone; it is about restoring structural integrity at the gateway between brain and body. By aligning the atlas orthogonally, the nervous system functions with less interference, allowing the body’s natural healing and performance potential to fully express itself.

Bio-Geometric Integration

Bio-Geometric Integration (BGI) is a chiropractic framework developed by Dr. Sue Brown that combines spinal adjusting with concepts from geometry, physics, and energy dynamics. It redefines chiropractic care as more than mechanical bone movement, viewing the body instead as a living, interconnected web of structure and tension. Stress and trauma—whether physical, chemical, or emotional—become stored in the body along predictable pathways. The chiropractor’s role is to help the system reorganize, so stored energy can be released and integrated rather than remain locked in. One of Sue Brown’s most influential contributions was her mapping system of points of rapport. These points form a geometric grid across the body, allowing the practitioner to see how tension is distributed through ligamentous, muscular, and osseous tracts that stem from spinal subluxations. In practice, a misalignment in one area often shows related points of stress elsewhere, revealing the body’s broader compensatory patterns. By palpating these points and observing subtle cues such as breath or tissue tone, the chiropractor gains insight into how the body has stored tension and where an adjustment will create the most effective release. Adjustments in BGI are usually low-force and often involve sustained, gentle contacts that are synchronized with the patient’s breathing. The goal is not just to correct a misalignment but to help the body fully integrate the adjustment, so its effects ripple through the entire system. Importantly, the geometric tracts identified in BGI are not exclusive to this method—other chiropractic techniques can also adjust into these tracts. In fact, BGI is frequently practiced alongside MLS, a tonal technique developed by Dr. Arno Burnier, who was a colleague of Sue Brown's since they both worked on Network Chiropractic together. Patients often describe BGI care as calming, profound, and deeply integrative. It is especially valued by those who prefer a lighter touch or who are working through layers of trauma. Ultimately, BGI is more than a technique, its a map. It is a lens for understanding the body’s geometry, allowing chiropractors to honor how stress is stored and gently invite its release for greater coherence and healing.

Chiropractic Bio-Physics

Chiropractic Bio-Physics (CBP) is a structural corrective technique founded in 1980 by Dr. Donald Harrison and colleagues. CBP emphasizes restoring spinal alignment toward an ideal model of posture and curvature. The technique is grounded in biomechanics and physics: the spine is analyzed against scientifically established angles of alignment, and care is directed at reshaping the body to meet those standards. A CBP assessment begins with a detailed postural analysis. Doctors measure how far a patient’s spine deviates from ideal curves—such as cervical lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, and lumbar lordosis—and also evaluate global posture, including head, shoulder, and pelvic alignment. These measurements provide precise data on how the body is carrying stress. Treatment then combines mirror-image adjustments, targeted postural exercises, and customized traction protocols to gradually remodel the spine. Patients often describe it as a blend of chiropractic and physical therapy, since there is both hands-on adjusting and a clear rehabilitation component. One of the most fascinating aspects of CBP is how it incorporates the concept of Adverse Mechanical Cord Tension (AMCT). Originally described by neurosurgeon Alf Breig, AMCT refers to the way abnormal spinal curvatures can place strain on the spinal cord and its surrounding structures. When the spine loses its natural curves, the cord can become tethered or stretched, altering tension on the nervous system. This may interfere with neurological communication, leading to symptoms beyond local back or neck pain.CBP addresses AMCT by working externally to correct spinal posture. Through sustained, calculated traction, the spine is gently remodeled toward healthier curves, which in turn reduces cord strain. This approach differs from tonal methods like NetworkSpinal or Torque Release Technique, which address cord tension internally through receptor-based stimulation. In CBP, the principle is mechanical: change the angles, reduce the stress. By restoring the geometric integrity of the spine, the nervous system is freed from abnormal pulling, allowing for clearer signaling and improved body function. Beyond reducing symptoms, CBP aspires to long-term correction. Patients under consistent care often experience improvements in balance, breathing, strength, and overall resilience because their structure is more aligned with biomechanical ideals. In this way, CBP reshapes the body to ease burden on the nervous system at its core.

Cox Flexion/ Distraction

Cox Flexion-Distraction is a gentle, non-force chiropractic technique developed by Dr. James Cox, primarily designed for the treatment of disc herniations, sciatica, and chronic low back pain. Unlike high-velocity thrust adjustments, this method relies on controlled, rhythmic stretching of the spine to reduce pressure on discs and nerves. The technique is performed on a specialized split table that allows the chiropractor to guide the patient’s body through carefully measured movements. Lying face-down, the lower section of the table can be slowly flexed, extended, or laterally moved, creating a subtle traction effect. The chiropractor controls the motion entirely by hand, adjusting the depth and rhythm to match the patient’s needs. Rather than the sudden thrust of a traditional adjustment, patients feel a gentle, repetitive stretching motion that many describe as soothing and oddly relaxing. The goal of Cox Flexion-Distraction is to increase space between the vertebrae, which directly benefits the intervertebral discs. When a disc bulges or herniates, it can press against nearby nerves, causing pain, weakness, or numbness. By rhythmically separating the vertebrae, Cox technique reduces intradiscal pressure, encouraging the bulging material to retract and allowing the disc to draw in nutrients and fluids more effectively. This “imbibition” process is vital for disc health, since discs have a limited blood supply and rely on movement and pressure changes to refresh themselves. In this way, Cox technique doesn’t just relieve pain—it supports the rejuvenation of the spinal discs themselves.

Beyond disc issues, flexion-distraction also helps improve facet joint mobility, reduce spinal stenosis symptoms, and stretch surrounding ligaments and muscles in a controlled way. Because the chiropractor maintains constant manual control, the technique can be finely tuned for sensitive patients or acute injuries, making it a safe choice for those who might not tolerate forceful adjustments. At Luxury Chiropractic, we value hands-on methods where the doctor remains fully engaged in the process. Unlike automated decompression or traction machines, Cox Flexion-Distraction allows for real-time feedback, precision, and subtle responsiveness to each patient’s condition. This blend of decompression, manual sensitivity, and structural relief makes Cox technique a powerful option for restoring motion, reducing nerve irritation, and giving the discs the space they need to heal.

Directional Non-Force Technique

Directional Non-Force Technique (DNFT), created by Dr. Richard Van Rumpt in the 1920s, is one of the earliest “soft touch” chiropractic approaches and a cornerstone of modern tonal adjusting. Its defining feature is precision over power. Instead of relying on heavy thrusts or large forces, DNFT emphasizes the exact direction of force application. The philosophy is that a properly delivered adjustment is not determined by how hard the chiropractor pushes, but by the accuracy of the line of correction. A DNFT analysis begins with a structured challenge system paired with leg-length checks. These checks help the practitioner locate the exact vertebra, joint, or tissue involved and determine the specific vector of subluxation. Once identified, the adjustment is delivered through a quick thumb thrust in that precise direction, using no more pressure than pressing a doorbell. There is no cracking or popping sound—just a subtle flick—and yet patients often experience profound shifts in alignment and ease.

This shift in emphasis—direction over force—was revolutionary for chiropractic. It guided the profession away from equating “bigger thrusts” with better results, and instead toward mastery of specificity. Dr. Van Rumpt showed that the nervous system responds most efficiently when force is minimal but perfectly directed, allowing the body to accept and integrate the correction without resistance. The principle also highlights a deeper truth: force is inverse to presence. The more specific and present the doctor is, the less physical effort is required to create lasting change.

DNFT’s influence extends far beyond its own practice base. Many advanced techniques that emerged at the turn of the millennium, including Network Chiropractic, Bio-Geometric Integration, and MLS, owe a direct debt to DNFT. These systems carried forward the idea that specificity, subtlety, and neurological resonance matter more than sheer mechanical input. In this sense, DNFT is both a technique and a philosophical turning point, demonstrating that chiropractic mastery lies in finesse, not force. Though less commonly practiced today, DNFT remains one of the most important methods a chiropractor can study. Its emphasis on clean, effective, and long-lasting adjustments provides a foundation that makes every other chiropractic technique more precise and more powerful.

Diversified

Diversified Technique is the most widely practiced method in chiropractic and the standard hands-on adjusting style taught in most schools. It represents a distillation of the profession’s 100+ year history—borrowing from early systems like Palmer, Logan, Gonstead, and others—into a versatile method of analysis and correction.

At its core, Diversified uses high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) thrusts delivered by hand to the spine and extremities. These adjustments are designed to restore proper motion and alignment to joints that are fixated or misaligned. The intensity is moderate to strong: this is the technique most people think of when they picture chiropractic—the classic moves that produce an audible “crack” or “pop.” However, that sound is not the adjustment itself but the release of gas within the joint capsule (cavitation). The actual adjustment lies in the precise, quick thrust that restores joint play. A hallmark of Diversified is its adaptability. Every spinal segment moves at a different angle, and the chiropractor must adjust their line of drive accordingly. A skilled doctor evaluates posture, palpates for restricted motion, and brings the joint into the paraphysiological space—the subtle zone just beyond its usual range of motion but short of damage. From here, a brisk thrust is delivered with specificity so that only the intended joint releases while the others remain stable. The guiding principle of Diversified is biomechanical correction. When spinal joints move freely and align properly, pressure on surrounding nerves and tissues is reduced, function improves, and symptoms often resolve. Because of its effectiveness and accessibility, Diversified is the style most often copied in other disciplines such as osteopathy, physical therapy, and manual therapies. Yet there is a key distinction: chiropractors adjust, others manipulate. The difference is philosophical as well as practical. Chiropractors seek not to force or override the body, but to assist it—working with what is right, so that the body can heal itself more fully.

Even a subluxated joint is not viewed as “bad” in Diversified philosophy—it is an opportunity. Each fixation or misalignment is the body’s way of signaling where attention is needed. The adjustment honors that process, restores balance, and clears the way for deeper healing.

As the most recognizable and practiced chiropractic approach, Diversified remains the foundation of hands-on adjusting worldwide—a balance of art, science, and skill that continues to evolve with the profession.

Functional Neurology

Functional Neurology, pioneered by Dr. Frederick “Ted” Carrick in the late 1970s, is a brain-based approach to chiropractic care that focuses on optimizing nervous system function through targeted stimulation. It is commonly applied with patients recovering from concussions, balance and coordination disorders, developmental challenges, or neurological dysfunctions that don’t always show up on standard medical tests.

A functional neurology evaluation is highly detailed. Doctors assess eye movements, reflexes, coordination, posture, and balance to determine how well different regions of the nervous system are communicating. From there, care is tailored using exercises, sensory input, adjusting techniques, and neuro-rehabilitation strategies—all aimed at strengthening or modulating the brain’s performance. The foundation of functional neurology is neuroplasticity—the ability of the brain to adapt and rewire in response to the right kind of stimulation. What makes this field so challenging is its depth: every aspect of the human body is governed by the nervous system, which operates through billions of interdependent neurons firing in patterns known as loops. A loop is a circuit of brain activity that manages a specific function, such as balance, eye control, or motor coordination. For example, balance is primarily coordinated by the vestibulo-cerebello-cortical loop. If a doctor identifies weakness or dysfunction in this pathway, they can deliver targeted adjustments, exercises, or sensory input to strengthen it. Conversely, if the goal is to calm down overactivity, the doctor may stimulate its antagonist loop, such as the cerebello-rubro-cortical pathway, to achieve inhibitory effects. By understanding these relationships, practitioners can fine-tune care with remarkable specificity—sometimes down to a single side of the brain or a particular subcortical structure. This layered understanding adds tremendous depth to chiropractic. Whereas traditional chiropractic often focuses on biomechanics and nerve flow, functional neurology operates at the level of brain circuits and integration. An adjustment, when applied with knowledge of loops and their antagonists, becomes not just a mechanical correction but a carefully calibrated neurological input designed to shift function at the highest levels of control. Functional neurology demonstrates that chiropractic can be far more than structural correction—it can be a sophisticated application of neuroscience. By engaging the brain directly, chiropractors working in this paradigm help patients tap into their own capacity for recovery, resilience, and higher function.

Full Spine Toggle

Full Spine Toggle is an approach that applies the toggle-recoil adjustment—originally developed for the upper cervical spine—to the entire spinal column. The hallmark of this method is its speed and specificity: a shallow, precise thrust delivered at a calculated angle, followed instantly by the doctor’s hands springing away. This “recoil” allows the vertebra to reverberate briefly along the line of correction, creating a vibrational effect rather than a heavy push. Patients often describe the adjustment as feeling almost like nothing at first, yet notice immediate systemic changes—such as clearer thinking, relaxed muscles, or improved posture. The science behind this lies in dentate ligament theory. The spinal cord is suspended inside the spinal canal and tethered laterally to the dura mater and vertebrae by dentate ligaments. These ligaments act as anchor points, meaning that when a vertebra shifts out of alignment, it can create abnormal pulling forces on the spinal cord. This tension alters nerve conduction, often biasing the nervous system toward sympathetic dominance. When the sympathetic system increases its output—whether from stress, fear, or sustained tension—the body responds with a global flexion pattern. We see this in a crying infant curling forward, a frightened dog tucking its tail, or a boxer hunching into a defensive stance. Biomechanically, this resembles upper-cross syndrome: the sacrum tucks, the thoracic spine rounds, and the head drifts into anterior carriage. These postural adaptations are mediated through changes in cord tension transmitted via the dentate ligaments. In short, altered signaling from the spinal cord produces altered mechanics in the body. The purpose of the Full Spine Toggle adjustment is to interrupt this cycle at its subluxation lynchpin. By delivering a rapid, vibrational thrust in a precise vector, the involved vertebra oscillates around its intended alignment. This oscillation recalibrates local cord tension, clears interference in neural communication, and allows the sympathetic overdrive to dissipate. Because the adjustment works vibrationally rather than forcefully, its effects ripple beyond the single joint corrected, often producing a shift in the entire nervous system’s tone. By extending toggle recoil beyond the upper cervical spine to the full spine, chiropractors can address cord tension patterns throughout the body with a lighter, neurologically attuned force input. The result is a technique that honors the spine’s design, respects the sensitivity of the nervous system, and resets posture and physiology through precision vibration rather than brute force.

Gonstead

The Gonstead Technique, developed by Dr. Clarence Gonstead in the mid-20th century, is one of chiropractic’s most distinctive and rigorous methods. Known for its meticulous analysis and hands-on specificity, Gonstead is often described as approaching the spine like an engineer would a building: identify the weak foundation, correct it with precision, and the rest of the structure realigns naturally. The analysis process is thorough. A Gonstead chiropractor typically uses a combination of visual posture checks, motion palpation, X-rays, and instrumentation (such as the nervoscope) to pinpoint the exact vertebral subluxation. Central to the technique’s philosophy is the belief that the pelvis and lumbar spine form the foundation of spinal health—if these are misaligned, compensations ripple upward into the rest of the body. What truly sets Gonstead apart, however, are the unique adjusting positions and vectors it employs. In the cervical spine, the technique is famous for its seated cervical push moves. Instead of lying down, the patient sits upright in a chair while the chiropractor delivers a precisely angled thrust. This allows gravity to stabilize the rest of the body, so only the specific cervical joint moves. The setup feels secure, but the thrust itself is fast and focused, creating a clean release with minimal involvement of neighboring joints. For the lumbar spine, Gonstead often uses a knee-chest table—a specialized setup rarely found outside this technique. The patient kneels with their chest supported while the chiropractor delivers a powerful but exact thrust to the lower back. This position isolates the lumbar vertebrae and sacrum, enabling high specificity and force delivery without compromising safety. These distinctive setups give Gonstead doctors some of the most versatile hands in chiropractic.

Every Gonstead adjustment is based on vector specificity. Subluxations are evaluated in multiple planes of motion—flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral bending—often factoring in subtle torque. What looks like a single thrust to the untrained eye is actually a complex correction addressing several biomechanical components at once. This level of refinement is why Gonstead is considered one of the most demanding systems to master.

Patients often describe Gonstead adjustments as profound: strong setup pressure followed by a crisp, exact release. There is no “random cracking.” Every move has a rationale, and every thrust is calculated to affect only the intended joint. For many, this combination of analysis, precision, and unique positioning makes Gonstead one of the most effective and trusted chiropractic approaches in practice today.

H.I.O Knee Chest

H.I.O., or “Hole-In-One,” is the legendary upper cervical method developed by Dr. B.J. Palmer, often regarded as the cornerstone of chiropractic’s early growth. Unlike full-spine approaches, H.I.O. focuses exclusively on the top two vertebrae—the atlas (C1) and axis (C2). The philosophy is that these bones, located at the gateway between the brain and body, are the critical keys to the entire spine. If misaligned, they can distort nerve communication at its highest level; if corrected, the entire nervous system can normalize. The adjustment itself is delivered with a toggle-recoil thrust performed in the knee-chest position. The patient kneels on a special table with their chest and head supported, while the chiropractor applies a very fast, precise force to the atlas. Unlike a standard toggle, the H.I.O. thrust is a set-and-hold maneuver: the chiropractor delivers the thrust and stays there, allowing the body to integrate the correction as guided by the doctor. Sometimes a drop mechanism under the head is used to ensure maximum specificity with minimal force. Patients often report unusual sensations afterward—warmth, tingling, lightness, or a wave of relaxation. These are signs of restored blood flow, reduced cord tension, and improved nerve communication. The goal is not simply to move a bone but to remove interference at the most critical junction of the nervous system, allowing the brain’s signals to flow freely throughout the body. Historically, H.I.O. represents B.J. Palmer’s defining contribution to chiropractic. While his father, D.D. Palmer, discovered chiropractic in 1895, it was B.J. who expanded it into a profession through relentless research, innovation, and teaching. His emphasis on the upper cervical spine as the neurological bottleneck introduced a new way of thinking about health: that structure and neurology at the base of the brain govern the body’s capacity to heal. H.I.O. is more than a technique—it is part of chiropractic’s DNA. It symbolizes the profession’s original passion for specificity, for respecting the body’s innate intelligence, and for restoring health by unlocking the nervous system. Even a century later, the philosophy of H.I.O. continues to inspire chiropractors who view their work not just as mechanical correction, but as a direct connection to life itself.

Koren Specific Technique

Koren Specific Technique (KST) is a relatively modern chiropractic approach developed by Dr. Tedd Koren in the early 2000s. It blends chiropractic principles with concepts drawn from acupuncture, Applied Kinesiology (AK), and other low-force systems, resulting in a gentle yet versatile method of analysis and adjustment. What sets KST apart is its combination of biofeedback testing and instrument-assisted adjusting.

The analysis process relies on detecting what KST calls the occipital drop. The practitioner lightly palpates the back of the skull while the patient speaks certain phrases or engages in specific thought patterns. A subtle increase in tension—perceived as a tightening or “drop” under the occiput—indicates a disturbance or subluxation somewhere in the body. In this way, the body itself provides real-time feedback about where stress is being stored and what needs correction. While it resembles AK’s muscle testing in appearance, KST is distinct in its reliance on cranial tension as the marker. Adjustments in KST are delivered using an arthrostim device, a handheld instrument that applies rapid, gentle impulses without twisting, cracking, or strong force. The patient may be positioned in a variety of postures—standing, sitting, bending, twisting, or even re-enacting stress patterns—so the adjustment can be made under conditions that replicate real-life tension. This flexibility is one of KST’s hallmarks, allowing the doctor to clear patterns that might otherwise remain hidden when a patient is lying passively on a table. Philosophically, KST views health blockages as multidimensional—physical, mental, and emotional. The technique aims to identify and release all forms of interference that prevent the nervous system from functioning at its best. Patients often describe KST sessions as interactive, engaging, and surprisingly comfortable. The gentle instrument input, combined with the feedback-driven analysis, creates a sense that the patient’s body is actively guiding its own healing process.

One of KST’s greatest contributions is the shift in doctor-patient dynamics. Instead of a top-down model where the chiropractor dictates care, KST fosters a teamwork approach. The patient participates in the discovery of stress patterns, and the practitioner responds with precise, low-force input. This collaborative philosophy mirrors the future of healthcare—where the patient’s own body wisdom leads the way.

Logan Basic

Logan Basic Technique, developed by Dr. Hugh B. Logan in 1931, is a classic low-force chiropractic method that emphasizes the sacrum as the body’s foundation. The word “Basic” refers to its focus on the base of the spine, where even subtle misalignments can cascade upward and distort the entire postural chain. By gently correcting the sacrum, Logan Basic seeks to restore balance throughout the spine in a way that is profound yet non-invasive. The hallmark of the technique is its use of the sacrotuberous ligament, located near the apex of the sacrum. The chiropractor applies a sustained, light pressure at this point, holding it long enough for the surrounding musculature and ligaments to relax. As the sacrum gradually levels out, dural tension normalizes and cerebrospinal fluid movement is facilitated. In effect, the sacrum “resets,” and the spine above naturally follows—much like freeing a jammed foundation so the floors of a building can settle back into alignment.

Because the adjustment is so subtle, Logan Basic is especially well-suited for sensitive populations, including pregnant women, infants, and elderly patients. Its philosophy is that less is more: by using a gentle, sustained contact in just the right place, the body can initiate a chain reaction of biomechanical and neurological improvements. Practitioners often incorporate breathing patterns, leg-length checks, and palpation of muscular tightness to know when the release is complete.

What makes Logan Basic particularly fascinating is how a single point of sustained contact influences the body’s entire ligamentous web. By affecting the sacrotuberous ligament, tension patterns radiating into the pelvis, spine, and even cranial dura are influenced, much like touching the center of a spider’s web sends ripples outward. This bottom-up approach highlights the interdependence of spinal stability and neural function. Historically, Logan Basic inspired the development of other low-force methods such as Toftness and contributed to the tonal philosophy behind techniques like Network Chiropractic. In many ways, it mirrors the Gonstead philosophy of addressing the spine’s foundation first, but did so decades earlier, and with a much gentler force input. Logan Basic remains a timeless reminder that sometimes the most powerful adjustments require the least amount of force—using the base of the spine to reorganize the body from the ground up.

Motion Palpation

Motion Palpation is one of chiropractic’s most important analysis methods. It is a way for doctors to feel how the spine moves, rather than just how it looks when still. Developed by Belgian chiropractor Dr. Henri Gillet and later popularized by Dr. Leonard Faye and the Motion Palpation Institute (MPI) in the 1970s and ’80s, this technique emphasizes that the spine is a dynamic structure. Subluxations are not just static misalignments—they often reveal themselves most clearly when the spine is in motion. The process is straightforward but deeply artful. A chiropractor places their hands or fingers on adjacent vertebrae and guides the patient through ranges of motion—flexion, extension, lateral bending, and rotation. By feeling how each vertebra turns, bends, and anchors relative to the one above and below, the chiropractor creates a dynamic map of the spine. Restrictions in joint play or abnormal end feel signal the presence of dysfunction, often more reliably than what can be seen on an X-ray.

What makes motion palpation so powerful is its focus on the paraphysiological space—the small zone just beyond normal active movement, but short of ligamentous damage. When a joint is brought to this space, the chiropractor can feel whether it is free or fixated. Subluxated segments lack this smooth transition, while healthy ones glide easily. This level of sensitivity provides the chiropractor with exceptional specificity, guiding them directly to the joints that need correction.

Unlike techniques that analyze the body with the patient lying still, motion palpation reflects how people actually live and move. It captures the body’s functional reality—how the spine behaves under the stresses of bending, twisting, and carrying weight. Because of this, motion palpation offers an additional, often indispensable view when determining the exact location and vector for an adjustment. Once a restriction is identified, the chiropractor can adjust with confidence, often using classic Diversified thrusts. The specificity from motion palpation ensures that the thrust is applied only where it’s needed, making the adjustment more efficient and effective.

More than just a diagnostic method, motion palpation is a cornerstone of chiropractic mastery. It requires refined hands, deep anatomical knowledge, and an ability to feel the subtle language of movement. By mapping the spine in motion, chiropractors can detect subluxations others might miss and deliver adjustments that restore both alignment and the fluidity of life itself.

MLS

MLS Adjusting, created by Dr. Arno Burnier in 1983, stands for Mastery, Love, and Service—a name that reflects both the artistry and the heart behind the method. While on the surface MLS may resemble techniques like Diversified or Gonstead, its philosophy and execution are fundamentally different. Where most systems emphasize precision through single-plane vectors, MLS elevates chiropractic by adjusting through the body’s natural arcs of motion. In biomechanics, vertebrae never move in straight lines. Each spinal segment translates and rotates simultaneously across multiple axes (X, Y, and Z), producing a curved pathway unique to its anatomical design. Traditional chiropractic techniques often attempt to satisfy these motions by delivering a thrust somewhere in between the three axes—a compromise vector that approximates the correction. While effective, this approach overlooks the truth that nature does not move in straight lines. Joints glide in arcs, spirals, and compound curves. MLS embraces this reality by delivering adjustments along curved lines of drive that honor all planes of movement simultaneously. Instead of forcing a joint through a linear path, the adjustment follows the natural arc of the vertebra, allowing it to realign smoothly and harmoniously. The result is an adjustment that feels fluid, almost effortless—patients often describe it as “buttery.” The artistry of MLS lies in blending speed with gentleness. The chiropractor brings the patient into a deeply relaxed state, eliminating unnecessary resistance. At the moment of thrust, the doctor’s hands move with extraordinary quickness but minimal force, guiding the vertebra through its arc rather than imposing direction upon it. This creates a release that is not only biomechanically precise but also neurologically profound, as the nervous system integrates the correction without defensive tension. Although concepts of multi-planar motion are not new, MLS was the first to combine them in such a way that every line of force is addressed both individually and synergistically. It represents a refinement of chiropractic adjusting into something both highly technical and deeply artistic. By honoring the curved arcs of the spine, MLS provides adjustments that feel smoother, last longer, and embody the philosophy that true mastery lies in working with the body’s natural design, not against it.

Network Chiropractic 1.0

Network Chiropractic was created in the 1980s by Dr. Donald Epstein and a group of New York chiropractors who set out to “network” the best aspects of seven different chiropractic systems into a unified analysis and adjusting approach. The techniques integrated were Thompson, Toftness, Directional Non-Force Technique (DNFT), Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), Logan Basic, Upper Cervical, and Pierce-Stillwagon. By drawing from these foundations, Network introduced a revolutionary way of defining and addressing subluxations. Traditionally, chiropractic had viewed subluxation primarily as a bony misalignment—what techniques like Gonstead, Diversified, or Motion Palpation sought to correct mechanically. Network Chiropractic reframed this by proposing two distinct categories of subluxation. The first lies within the spinal cord itself and manifests as adverse mechanical cord tension (AMCT), a concept advanced by neurosurgeon Dr. Alf Breig. The second is the more familiar misalignment or fixation of a vertebral joint. By unifying these two models, Network bridged the gap between structural chiropractic and tonal chiropractic.

The practical impact of this was profound. Network practitioners argued that true root subluxations arise from cord tension, and that vertebral misalignments that do not overlap with areas of cord tension are compensations, not causes. This was a groundbreaking distinction: for the first time, chiropractors had a framework to differentiate between a root issue and a symptom pattern. In other words, what appeared in motion palpation or imaging might not be the actual cause of dysfunction, but rather the body’s attempt to adapt. Network Chiropractic focused on clearing cord tension before addressing structural misalignments. By working from the inside out, the nervous system reorganizes itself, and structural patterns often shift on their own. This lens gave chiropractors a more consistent way to determine where to adjust and where to leave the body’s compensations alone. Because of its dual-subluxation model and integrative origins, Network Chiropractic became one of the most researched techniques in the profession’s history. It not only introduced new adjusting strategies but also brought forward a philosophical clarity about roots versus symptoms, marking one of the most significant evolutions in chiropractic analysis during the late 20th century.

Network Spinal Analysis 2.0

Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) emerged in the late 1990s as the natural evolution of Network Chiropractic, refining its analysis and dramatically shifting its focus. its defining feature became an emphasis on the somatopsychic wave—literally, the “body-mind wave.” This is a rhythmic oscillation through the spine and nervous system that couples breath with neuronal firing patterns. Patients often describe it as entering a healing trance, similar to meditation or yogic states, where the nervous system reorganizes itself at profound levels. The wave is more than a curiosity. It draws on concepts such as adverse mechanical cord tension (AMCT), biotensegrity, and dentate ligament theory. By using extremely light contacts—similar to DNFT in specificity—NSA practitioners can cue the nervous system to shift tension across the spinal cord. These contacts, placed on specific anatomical points known as gateways, allow waves of breath and energy to move through the spine, releasing stored patterns of defense. Research into NSA waves has shown them to be unique, measurable phenomena, often likened to kundalini waves in Eastern traditions—except here, the process is guided intentionally by the chiropractor over precise neurological gateways.

This evolution was not without creative branching. As NSA refined into its second form, some practitioners developed their own systems inspired by its breakthroughs. BGI, MLS, TRT, and Talsky Tonal are all techniques that trace their lineage to the new perspectives born out of NSA. These offshoots highlight one of chiropractic’s greatest strengths: innovation that continually reshapes the profession’s philosophy and adjusting artistry. NSA also represented a departure from manual adjusting. The system became even gentler than its predecessor, relying almost exclusively on sustained or repeated light contacts. In this way, it borrowed the specificity of DNFT and the sustained ease of Logan Basic, combining them into a style that was less about pushing bones and more about entraining the nervous system into new patterns of coherence. If chiropractic techniques could be compared to martial arts, Network Spinal Analysis would be the Jeet Kune Do of chiropractic—a synthesis of many disciplines into a fluid, adaptive art. For many, Network 2.0 represents what B.J. Palmer was envisioning nearly 75 years earlier: a chiropractic approach capable of unlocking the body’s healing potential through the nervous system itself, not just the bones that house it.

NetworkSpinal 3.0

NetworkSpinal 3.0 is the third generation of Donald Epstein’s evolving system, following Network Chiropractic (1.0) and Network Spinal Analysis (2.0). Officially introduced around 2017, this version reflects a continued movement away from traditional chiropractic adjustments and even beyond the somatopsychic wave of NSA, placing its primary emphasis on the development of gateways—neuro-structural regions associated with the dentate ligaments. The dentate ligaments play a central role in the NetworkSpinal 3.0 framework. These fibrous bands anchor the spinal cord laterally to the dura mater and vertebrae, stabilizing the cord much like suspension cables on a bridge. If the spinal cord is the body’s information superhighway and the spinal nerves are the on- and off-ramps, the dentate ligaments are the cables that hold the structure in place. By contacting tissues above and around these anchors, practitioners aim to influence how tension is distributed across the spinal cord and nervous system. What remains consistent across all three Network generations is the analysis system. Derived from seven foundational chiropractic techniques—Thompson, Toftness, DNFT, SOT, Logan Basic, Upper Cervical, and Pierce-Stillwagon—this “greatest hits” analysis tracks patterns of cord tension rather than simply structural misalignments. Network 3.0 classifies nervous system tension into five phases or archetypes, each addressed through gentle, specific contacts. Unlike classic HVLA adjusting, NetworkSpinal 3.0 more closely resembles receptor-based therapy found in Functional Neurology. Light contacts are applied to dermatomes or spinal gateways with precise attention to pressure depth and angle. The goal is to cue the brain to recognize the area, enhance neuroplasticity, and elicit a breath wave that gently rocks spinal segments back toward alignment. In this model, the adjustment is less about bone movement and more about reorganizing neural perception. A unique hallmark of Network 3.0 is its emphasis on contact mechanics and practitioner intention. Every ounce of pressure, every angle of touch, is thought to carry information to the nervous system. In this way, Network 3.0 has deepened the artistry of light-force contact. Unfortunately, through its own dogmatic philosiphies, it has lost a lot of what made its predecessors great as well as many of its professional leaders. It is best paired with the foundational clarity of Network 1.0 and the wave-based reorganizational healing of 2.0, to provide a potent and modern lens on healing: one that seeks to anchor the nervous system into coherence by working directly with its structural suspension points.

Neuro-Emotional Technique

Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET) is a mind-body therapeutic approach that integrates contemporary neuroscience with traditional healing wisdom. It emphasizes the connection between physical tension, unresolved emotional stress, and nervous system function. Emotions are not purely mental experiences—they have a tangible physiological presence in the body. Neuropeptides, chemical messengers that communicate emotional states, travel throughout the nervous system, including the posterior horn of the spinal cord. When emotional stress or trauma is not fully processed, it can become imprinted in the nervous system as a Neuro-Emotional Complex (NEC). These NECs can interfere with normal bodily function and may contribute to chronic pain, restricted movement, emotional distress, and other health challenges.

Developed by Drs. Scott and Deb Walker, NET draws from chiropractic principles, applied kinesiology, and meridian-based concepts from Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is based on the understanding that the body can store unresolved emotional experiences in ways that affect both physical and emotional health. By identifying and releasing these imprints, NET helps restore balance to the nervous system and promotes overall well-being. During a NET session, the practitioner begins by using muscle testing to identify areas of interference in the body that may be linked to unresolved emotional stress. Muscle responses provide insight into where the nervous system may be carrying tension from past emotional events. Once these areas are located, the practitioner applies gentle adjustments or meridian-based acupressure to help release the stored stress. These interventions are subtle and supportive, working with the body’s natural ability to process and resolve emotional and physiological imbalances. The outcome of NET is the restoration of mind-body homeostasis. Patients often report experiencing a reduction in physical tension, improved emotional clarity, and a greater ability to cope with daily stressors. Many describe feeling lighter, more relaxed, and better able to respond to both physical and emotional challenges. By addressing the connection between emotional experiences and physiological patterns, NET provides a unique framework for understanding how unresolved stress can manifest in the body and impact overall health.

In essence, Neuro-Emotional Technique is a holistic system that recognizes the deep integration of mind and body. By combining insights from neuroscience, chiropractic care, and meridian-based therapies, NET identifies and releases stored emotional stress, supports nervous system function, and enhances overall well-being. It is a gentle, precise approach designed to help patients feel freer, lighter, and more in balance—physically, emotionally, and neurologically.

Non-Therapeutic Chiropractic

Non-Therapeutic Chiropractic (NTC) is the practice model and philosophy championed by Dr. Reginald “Reggie” Gold, DC, PhC. In the mid-20th century, Gold reframed chiropractic into what he called the Third Paradigm: chiropractic as a unique profession distinct from medicine and physical therapy, not a treatment for diseases or symptoms. Instead, chiropractic in its purest form was, in his words, “totally non-therapeutic in its intent and practice.” The purpose of NTC is straightforward yet profound: the regular location, analysis, and correction of vertebral subluxations solely because they interfere with the body’s expression of life, or innate intelligence. An NTC chiropractor does not chase pain, diagnoses, or conditions. Instead, they adjust to ensure clearer brain-body communication, on the principle that the body works better without subluxations—regardless of whether a patient has symptoms. This model frees chiropractic from being defined as symptom therapy and restores it to a purpose-driven, wellness-oriented discipline. Reggie Gold often emphasized that this perspective is not anti-symptom relief. Rather, it refuses to reduce chiropractic to just another therapy for back pain or headaches. In practice, many patients under NTC care do see their pain diminish or their health improve, but those changes are viewed as byproducts of restored nervous system integrity, not the goal itself. The true objective is to honor and enhance the body’s inherent capacity to express life. NTC adjustments are highly specific and efficient. While the technique itself does not look dramatically different from Diversified or Gonstead in terms of hand contact, what sets it apart is the intent. The adjustment is not performed to treat a condition but to correct interference. This shift in philosophy transforms the entire doctor-patient relationship: instead of a transactional model focused on “fixing what hurts,” care becomes about liberating the nervous system and allowing patients to live more fully. At Luxury Chiropractic, we honor NTC because it represents the essence of the profession. Whether a person comes in after a car accident, with chronic pain, or simply for wellness, we make it clear: we don’t treat pain—we adjust the nervous system, and we do it exceptionally well. Pain often resolves, but our true goal is connecting body, mind, and soul, restoring health from the inside out without reliance on external interventions. NTC remains one of the great philosophical gems of chiropractic: unapologetically focused, uncompromisingly principled, and timeless in its purpose.

Pediatric Chiropractic

Pediatric Chiropractic is a specialized, age-specific approach to caring for infants, children, and adolescents. It focuses on reducing musculoskeletal strain and optimizing nervous-system signaling during the critical stages of growth and development. Unlike adult care, pediatric chiropractic is designed to match the child’s developmental stage, using gentle, precise inputs rather than forceful thrusts. Assessment begins with a developmental and movement screen. Chiropractors take into account birth history, posture, feeding or latch issues, motor milestones, and ergonomics as the child grows. Hands-on evaluation includes palpation of the spine and joints, primitive reflex testing, and observation of cranial, jaw, and cervical function. These findings help determine how stress is being stored in the body and how best to support healthy neural development. Adjustments are performed with extremely light force. For newborns and infants, pressure is sustained and no heavier than what you would use to test the ripeness of a tomato. For toddlers and older children, age-appropriate mobilizations, sustained contacts, or soft-tissue releases are used to address specific restrictions. As children grow, adjustments incorporate safe vectors within their natural ranges of motion, while still respecting the delicacy of developing structures. The philosophy behind pediatric chiropractic recognizes that while children are remarkably resilient, their nervous systems are also more impressionable. A newborn passes through an intense amount of compression and traction during birth. Their bones are not yet fully ossified—making them flexible like jelly, which aids delivery but can stress the nervous system inside. Pediatric chiropractic helps release these stored strains before they create longer-term compensations, supporting more efficient growth and healthier neural integration. Sessions are typically brief, interactive, and often play-based, designed to keep children comfortable and engaged. Parent coaching is also a key component, covering topics like positioning, tummy time, ergonomics, backpack use, sports recovery, and ways to encourage healthy posture at home. Expected outcomes vary by age: easier feeding and comfort for infants, better range of motion and coordination for children, and calmer stress regulation across all developmental stages. At its heart, pediatric chiropractic is about giving children the gift of a well-regulated nervous system—a foundation for resilience, adaptability, and thriving as they grow.

Pierce-Stillwagon

The Pierce–Stillwagon Technique (PST), developed in the 1960s by Drs. Vern Pierce and Glenn Stillwagon, is a biomechanics-driven chiropractic system that emphasized motion, structure, and function in a way that was ahead of its time. It served as the forerunner of the modern Pierce Results System and strongly influenced the development of several later chiropractic methods. At its core, PST is a kinematics-based analysis. Practitioners assessed the spine in motion, using X-ray kinematics, thermographic scans, leg checks, and palpation to determine which segments were not functioning properly. This dynamic analysis provided a clearer picture than static films alone, highlighting how the spine moved—or failed to move—under real-life conditions. By combining objective instrumentation with hands-on findings, PST represented one of the profession’s early attempts to make chiropractic both more scientific and more reproducible. One of PST’s most novel contributions was its focus on the fifth cervical vertebra (C5). Drawing on Clarence Reaver’s influential work The 5th Cervical Key, Pierce and Stillwagon argued that C5 was an especially vulnerable and overlooked segment. Anatomically, the spinal cord widens at C5 to supply the brachial plexus and the nerves of the arms, while the bony structures—the pedicles, transverse foramina, and neural canals—become relatively narrower. In other words, the cord expands exactly where the openings constrict. This makes C5 uniquely susceptible to compression and interference.

Clinically, subluxations at C5 can contribute to weakness in arm lifting, difficulty flexing the elbow, altered sensation in the shoulders, or even broader cord tension patterns descending through the spine. Despite its importance, very few chiropractic techniques historically emphasized C5. PST stands out as the C5 specialist, a system that placed unique importance on this critical vertebral level. Beyond its C5 focus, Pierce–Stillwagon also advanced the profession by introducing more precise thrusting styles, specific line-of-drive protocols, and the integration of instrumentation into routine practice. Its influence can be traced into later chiropractic systems, including Network Chiropractic, Diversified refinements, and modern Upper Cervical approaches, all of which borrowed elements of PST’s analysis or adjusting philosophy.

Though less commonly practiced today, Pierce–Stillwagon remains a landmark in chiropractic history—an innovative system that combined biomechanics with neurological awareness, and that reminded the profession to look closely at the overlooked yet crucial role of the mid-cervical spine.

Sacro-Occiptal Technique

Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) was created in the 1920s by Dr. Major B. DeJarnette, a chiropractor and osteopath whose discoveries shaped tonal chiropractic for generations. One of the origin stories that inspired SOT is both practical and poetic. A young boy in town had fallen down a well and was unable to climb out. When rescuers lowered a rope, the boy could not grasp or pull himself up due to pain and weakness from the fall. Dr. DeJarnette improvised by sliding a long plank of wood into the well and wedging it under the boy so he could sit upright. Once supported in this new position, the boy was suddenly able to grasp the rope and pull himself to safety. This experience sparked DeJarnette’s insight that using wedges and positioning could help the body support itself and unlock its strength, a principle that became central to SOT. The foundation of SOT is the relationship between the sacrum and occiput, the anchors of the spinal dura mater and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) system. CSF flows in laminar waves from the brain’s ventricles, down through the spinal canal, bathing the cord and nerves before returning. If dural tension or sacral mechanics are altered, the flow of CSF becomes turbulent or restricted, interfering with the body’s ability to nourish and cleanse the nervous system. DeJarnette identified three primary categories of dysfunction: Category I (sacroiliac and dural tension affecting CSF flow), Category II (pelvic instability and sprain patterns), and Category III (disc and sciatic-type problems). SOT’s signature procedure is the use of pelvic blocks—wedge-shaped cushions placed under the patient in specific angles and positions. Instead of the chiropractor pushing or twisting the spine directly, the patient’s own body weight and gravity provide the corrective force. As the body rests on the blocks, the pelvis and sacrum gently shift, meningeal stress reduces, and CSF flow is restored to smoother laminar patterns. This is one of the few chiropractic approaches that works directly with fluid mechanics and the dural system.

Because it is gentle, system-oriented, and integrates biomechanics with neurology and visceral reflexes, SOT is widely used for patients of all ages. It pairs beautifully with other methods—serving as a calm, gravity-driven complement to thrusting techniques like Thompson. More than just a method of adjusting, SOT reflects DeJarnette’s genius in using simple tools and natural forces to realign the body and restore its most vital flow system: the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid.

Sports Chiropractic

Sports chiropractic is a technique package designed specifically for athletes, combining unique analysis, adjustments, and philosophy. Its primary focus is rapid response: when athletes experience impacts, collisions, or repetitive strain, their bodies immediately begin a cascade of protective reactions. Inflammation, stiffness, reduced range of motion, decreased muscle strength, altered reflexes, and pain are some of the first changes that occur after trauma. Sports chiropractic emphasizes adjusting the body as soon as possible so these compensations do not have time to take hold, helping athletes recover faster and stay in motion. This approach is especially valuable for acute injuries. Rolled ankles, shoulder impacts, falls, and joint sprains are common in sports, and precise chiropractic adjustments restore function quickly and reduce stress on surrounding tissues. Extremity work is a hallmark of sports chiropractic—knees, elbows, wrists, hands, feet, fingers, and toes often take the brunt of action and benefit greatly from specific, targeted care. Neck injuries and head impacts are another area of emphasis. Sports chiropractors run detailed assessments to determine the extent of cervical trauma and head injury. If appropriate, they may adjust the neck to restore balance and coordination, or they may refer to medical providers if concussion signs are detected. This blend of care and clinical judgment makes sports chiropractic an important part of return-to-play strategies. Beyond recovery, sports chiropractic also plays a major role in performance optimization. By ensuring spinal and extremity alignment, athletes often notice improved strength, faster reaction times, and more efficient biomechanics. Many elite teams and professionals rely on regular adjustments not only to treat injuries but also to maximize training results and reduce risk of long-term damage. Sports chiropractic is about more than pain relief, it is about keeping athletes resilient, responsive, and performing at their highest potential through rapid, specific adjustments and holistic analysis of the body under stress.

Quantum Neuro Reset Therapy

Quantum Neuro Reset Therapy (QNRT®) is a specialized protocol created by Dr. John Turner that works to facilitate a profound “quantum shift” in the nervous system. The method is designed to reset the brain’s response to emotional triggers—whether rooted in past experiences or current stressors—so the body and mind can return to a healthier, more regulated state. Unresolved trauma and ingrained emotional patterns often leave lasting imprints on the nervous system. These imprints may manifest as chronic tension, persistent pain, heightened emotional reactivity, or even disturbances in immune and hormonal function. QNRT® provides a structured way to identify and release these maladaptive patterns, helping the nervous system break free from outdated responses that no longer serve health or wellbeing. The process begins with highly specific neurological assessments aimed at locating where maladaptive pathways are stored. Practitioners may use tools such as muscle response testing, eye movement tracking, and light or laser stimulation to evaluate how the nervous system reacts to certain stimuli. Once identified, gentle corrective inputs are applied to reset the brain’s conditioned response, effectively reprogramming the system toward balance. What makes QNRT® unique is its precision and non-invasive approach. Rather than masking symptoms or attempting to “push through” emotional or physical stress, the protocol works at the root: the brain’s encoding of past experiences. By restoring proper neurological signaling, QNRT® allows the body to heal in a more integrated way. Patients who undergo QNRT® often report a wide range of benefits. These include improved mood stability, enhanced clarity, greater emotional resilience, reduced physical pain, and increased range of motion. Many also describe feeling lighter, more present, and better able to engage with life free from the weight of old triggers. Because it addresses both the neurological and emotional dimensions of health, QNRT® is a powerful complement to chiropractic care and other holistic approaches. It is especially effective for individuals whose challenges stem from unresolved trauma, chronic stress, or long-standing nervous system dysregulation. In this way, QNRT® empowers individuals not just to feel better, but to experience life with renewed balance, clarity, and vitality.

Talsky Tonal Chiropractic

Talsky Tonal Technique (TTT) was created by Dr. Marvin Talsky, a chiropractor who had been deeply involved in the early days of Network Chiropractic and later co-developed Torque Release Technique (TRT) with Dr. Jay Holder before moving on to establish his own system in 2001. Drawing from these experiences, Talsky developed a method that is gentle, tonal, and neurologically focused, sharing similarities with Network Spinal and Bio-Geometric Integration (BGI) while carving out its own unique niche. At its foundation, Talsky Tonal emphasizes tone—the vibratory frequency expressed through the nervous system and body tissues. Where traditional chiropractic often focused on relieving nerve pressure, Talsky shifted the lens toward spinal cord tension, echoing Alf Breig’s concept of adverse mechanical cord tension (AMCT). Over 90% of dysfunctions, Talsky argued, stem not from compressed nerves but from changes in spinal cord tone. By correcting these tonal patterns, the nervous system can reorganize itself and enhance expression of life. The technique uses gentle, sustained contacts delivered with specific depth and vector, sometimes aided by light-force instruments. These contacts are designed to cue the nervous system rather than force a bone into place. Once the input is given, the practitioner withdraws, allowing the body to integrate the change on its own. Corrections are not limited to the adjustment table; the nervous system continues to process and realign after the session, aided by breathing and fluid mechanics. What distinguishes Talsky Tonal is its vector precision and layered depth of contact, very similarly to Network 3.0. Unlike techniques that apply a single static pressure, TTT adjusts at multiple depths—surface, ligamentous, or dural—depending on where the tonal disturbance resides. Each vector respects the body’s natural spirals, producing adjustments that feel smooth, fluid, and neurologically resonant. Patients often describe the experience as subtle yet powerful—sensations of warmth, lightness, or breath expansion that ripple through the body. Because of its gentleness, it is particularly suited for children, sensitive patients, or those with complex neurological presentations such as autism, epilepsy, or sensory processing issues. Ultimately, Talsky Tonal Technique very closely mirrors NetworkSpinal as the next evolution of tonal chiropractic since they were inspired by the same principles. TTT is a system that honors the nervous system’s vibrational intelligence, delivers adjustments with specificity and ease, and allows healing to emerge through presence rather than force.

Thompson Terminal Drop Point

The Thompson Terminal Drop Point Technique, often simply called Thompson Technique, is a chiropractic system developed by Dr. J. Clay Thompson in the 1950s. Dr. Thompson was inspired to create the method after recognizing that spinal adjustments could be made more comfortable, precise, and consistent through the use of a specially designed “drop” table. His goal was to reduce the force needed for an adjustment while increasing the specificity of contact. This innovation quickly became one of the most widely practiced methods in chiropractic care. A key feature of Thompson Technique is its analysis protocol, which begins with leg length checks. The Deerfield analysis is used to identify functional imbalances by comparing leg lengths in different positions. If one leg appears shorter when the patient lies prone and the difference changes or persists when the head is turned, this provides valuable diagnostic clues. Another component, known as Cervical Syndrome analysis, further refines the assessment by evaluating head rotation and its effect on leg balance. Together, these checks allow the chiropractor to determine not only where subluxations may be present but also how they are influencing the entire kinematic chain of the body. Adjusting with the Thompson Technique is performed on a drop table, where specific sections of the table are raised slightly under the patient and then release or “drop” during the adjustment. This drop uses the principles of inertia and gravity, so the chiropractor can apply a lighter thrust while still delivering a highly effective correction. The sudden but controlled release creates a gentle vibration through the spinal segment, which helps overcome joint fixation and reset the nervous system’s control of that area. Patients often describe the adjustment as comfortable and less forceful compared to traditional manual methods.

What makes the Thompson Technique distinct is its combination of precise leg-check analysis with a mechanical advantage in adjusting. By blending careful diagnosis with the efficiency of the drop mechanism, Dr. Thompson created a system that allows chiropractors to work with speed, specificity, and comfort. Decades later, it remains a cornerstone of chiropractic practice and a testament to how innovation can refine the art and science of spinal adjusting.

Toftness Technique

The Toftness Technique is a gentle, neurologically focused chiropractic method pioneered by Dr. Raymond Toftness, who studied at both Palmer School of Chiropractic and Logan College of Chiropractic. During his training, Dr. Toftness was struck by a puzzling divide: Palmer emphasized upper cervical work and dismissed Logan Basic Technique, while Logan insisted on sacral and pelvic corrections and criticized Palmer’s focus on the atlas. Each school claimed the other’s approach was ineffective, yet both achieved results. This contradiction inspired Dr. Toftness to question whether there was a deeper principle uniting these methods rather than separating them. Exploring this overlap, he discovered that you could apply a Logan-style sustained contact on the atlas while simultaneously influencing the sacrotuberous ligament with a toggle adjustment in the Palmer tradition. In blending these concepts, he began to bridge the gap between tonal and structural perspectives, planting the seeds of what would become the Toftness Technique. This blending philosophy is significant because it helped spark the movement toward modern technique creation in chiropractic, where practitioners sought to integrate rather than divide. A notable element of the Toftness Technique was Dr. Toftness’ invention of the Toftness Radiation Detector (TRD), a device designed to identify areas of abnormal energy or “radiation” from the nervous system. The TRD was intended to guide practitioners in locating subtle neurological imbalances that might otherwise go undetected. While it was praised for its sensitivity, the device eventually drew scrutiny from the FDA and was banned in the 1970s. Some speculated that the TRD might have been “too effective,” detecting signals and responses that conventional regulators could not easily explain, which raised questions about its validity and mechanism. Despite the controversy, the TRD played a pivotal role in shaping the philosophy of the Toftness Technique: that the nervous system is highly responsive to precise, low-force interventions and that subtle adjustments can have systemic effects.

Philosophically, Toftness viewed health as a state of neurological harmony. Subluxations were not merely misalignments of bones, but patterns of stress in the nervous system that could be detected and gently released. His curiosity about reconciling seemingly opposing techniques led to a method that embodied chiropractic’s tonal dimension while honoring its structural roots, demonstrating that chiropractic techniques can be integrated to uncover new ways of helping the nervous system function at its highest potential.

Toggle Recoil

The Upper Cervical Toggle Recoil technique is one of the foundational chiropractic methods, developed by B.J. Palmer to address the critical role of the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae in nervous system function. These two vertebrae protect the brainstem, the body’s central relay station, where even small misalignments can create far-reaching effects on health. Palmer emphasized that when the upper cervical spine is out of alignment, it can disturb the brainstem’s ability to coordinate communication between the brain and body. One of the key explanations for this comes from the dentate ligament theory. The dentate ligaments are small, tooth-like connective tissue structures that anchor the spinal cord to the dura mater along the length of the cord. In the upper cervical region, misalignments of the atlas or axis can create abnormal tension on these ligaments, which in turn exerts a subtle but significant pull on the spinal cord itself. This mechanical stress may distort or irritate neural pathways at the brainstem and upper spinal cord, potentially leading to dysfunction throughout the body. The analysis for Toggle Recoil typically includes leg-length checks, palpation, posture observation, and often X-rays to determine the exact vector of the misalignment. Because the dentate ligament attachment points and neurological pathways are so delicate, even a fraction of a degree in misalignment can matter. The chiropractor carefully calculates the angle and prepares for a highly specific correction.

The adjustment itself is a rapid, light thrust directed to the atlas or axis, immediately followed by a quick release or “recoil.” Unlike forceful manual adjustments, this adjustment uses speed and precision rather than power. The intent is to realign the vertebra without overstimulating the sensitive structures around the brainstem. By restoring proper positioning, the technique helps relieve dentate ligament tension on the spinal cord, reducing interference and allowing the nervous system to reset. Patients often describe feeling clearer, lighter, or more balanced after an upper cervical correction. The Toggle Recoil technique, supported by the dentate ligament theory, illustrates how gentle yet precise adjustments in this critical area can ripple out into profound changes in both neurological function and overall health.

Torque Release Technique

Torque Release Technique (TRT) is a modern chiropractic method developed by Dr. Jay Holder in the 1990s as the first technique designed and researched within the framework of randomized clinical trials. It emerged as a refinement and evolution of earlier tonal approaches, particularly Network Spinal Analysis, combining those insights with advances in neurological models of spinal cord tension and subluxation. Dr. Holder sought to create a system that was reproducible, research-driven, and neurologically precise, with the goal of helping chiropractors reduce interference in the nervous system at its root. At the core of TRT is its priority system. Rather than adjusting multiple segments in a single session, TRT uses a sequence of checks to identify the single most stressed area of the nervous system at that moment. It is based on the mathematical probability of whoch areas of the spine are most likely to be subluxated, as calculated through the Blanks study which cataloged over 2000 cases. The spine and nervous system operate hierarchically, so correcting the “primary subluxation” allows the body to self-correct other compensations. This makes adjustments more efficient, targeted, and neurologically congruent. The adjustment itself is delivered with a specialized instrument called the Integrator. Unlike spring-loaded devices such as the Activator, the Integrator delivers a quick, light, and specific thrust that incorporates both force and torque, mimicking the three-dimensional dynamics of a chiropractor’s hands. It was the first FDA-approved chiropractic adjusting instrument, designed to provide reproducibility and remove variability from manual techniques while still engaging the body’s natural neuromechanical responses. TRT also draws from concepts such as Adverse Mechanical Cord Tension (AMCT), the theory that abnormal spinal patterns and misalignments create tension along the dura and spinal cord, distorting neurological function. By reducing this tension through precise tonal adjustments, TRT helps the nervous system shift from a defensive, stressed state toward one of greater adaptability, regulation, and healing.

Because of its roots in Network Chiropractic, TRT retains a tonal perspective: the recognition that the nervous system holds patterns of stress that influence both physiology and behavior. By blending this tonal insight with a priority-based analysis and the mechanical precision of the Integrator, Torque Release Technique represents a bridge between classical chiropractic philosophy and modern evidence-based practice.

Webster Technique

The Webster Technique is a specialized chiropractic analysis and adjustment protocol designed to optimize pelvic and neurological balance, particularly during pregnancy. It was developed in the late 1970s by Dr. Larry Webster, DC, who founded the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). His motivation came after observing the unique physical and neurological stresses experienced by expectant mothers and recognizing that traditional full-spine approaches often needed adaptation for pregnancy care. At its core, the Webster Technique focuses on the sacrum, pelvis, and surrounding soft tissues. Neurologically, the sacrum is central to both spinal biomechanics and autonomic nervous system function, as it interfaces with pelvic nerves that influence uterine and pelvic floor muscles. Misalignments or restrictions in the sacroiliac joints can create imbalances in ligament tension, particularly involving the round ligaments and uterosacral ligaments, which may in turn affect the tone and function of the uterus. From a neurological standpoint, these imbalances can generate abnormal proprioceptive input and sympathetic dominance, interfering with the body’s natural ability to adapt during pregnancy.

The technique itself involves a gentle and specific sacral adjustment, often applied with the mother lying comfortably in a supported position. Chiropractors trained in Webster assess pelvic balance using orthopedic and palpatory indicators, and then deliver a light adjustment to the sacrum or related structures. In addition, contacts to the round ligament may be incorporated to reduce localized tension and restore balance across the pelvis. Importantly, the adjustment is not designed to “turn the baby,” as is sometimes mischaracterized, but rather to create an optimal neurological and biomechanical environment so the baby can assume the best possible position naturally. Philosophically, the Webster Technique reflects chiropractic’s commitment to honoring the body’s innate intelligence. By reducing interference in the nervous system and restoring pelvic balance, Webster adjustments support the mother’s ability to adapt to the physical and hormonal demands of pregnancy. This can lead to reduced discomfort, improved mobility, and a safer, more balanced environment for both mother and child. Today, the Webster Technique is one of the most widely recognized chiropractic protocols for prenatal care and has helped define chiropractic’s vital role in supporting healthy pregnancies and natural birthing outcomes.

Zone Technique

The Zone Technique is a healing method originally developed in the early 20th century by Dr. Thurman Fleet in San Antonio, Texas, and later modernized by Dr. Peter Goldman. It is based on the premise that the brain is divided into six centers, each responsible for controlling and regulating a major “zone” of the body: glandular, eliminative, nervous, digestive, muscular, and circulatory. When these brain centers are balanced and functioning properly, the body operates in a state of health. However, when stress, trauma, or subluxation interfere with neurological communication, one or more of these zones can become imbalanced, leading to dysfunction and symptoms. The neurology of the technique emphasizes the role of spinal nerves in carrying messages between the brain centers and the body’s systems. Subluxations or fixations along the spine can distort this communication, producing abnormal input that weakens or disrupts specific zones. For example, interference affecting the digestive zone may contribute to bloating or poor nutrient absorption, while dysfunction in the glandular zone could influence hormonal balance.

The analysis process begins with palpation of specific points on the patient’s head, which correspond to the six brain centers. The chiropractor evaluates which zone or zones show imbalance and then correlates these findings with spinal palpation. This guides the practitioner to the exact spinal segments that require adjustment.

The adjustment itself involves stimulating specific areas of the spine to restore proper communication between the spinal cord and the affected brain center. By correcting these pathways, the brain is better able to send balanced signals to the organs and tissues within the affected zone. Patients often report that after an adjustment, symptoms in seemingly unrelated areas improve, as the body’s systems return to coordinated function. Philosophically, the Zone Technique reflects the chiropractic principle of working with the body’s innate intelligence. Instead of chasing symptoms, the chiropractor identifies and corrects the underlying zone imbalances, allowing the body to self-heal. This makes the approach adaptable to a wide variety of conditions, from musculoskeletal complaints to systemic health challenges, and illustrates the power of the nervous system as the master coordinator of health.