One of the most popular methods of spinal manipulation is the Thompson Technique. It was introduced by Dr. J. Clay Thompson and patented in 1955. This technique uses a special “segmental drop table” to increase the force applied to the adjusted joint.
The table is designed to work with the natural structure of spinal joints. It helps to realign misaligned segments for better movement with the segments above and below.
What is the Thompson Technique?
The Thompson Technique is a chiropractic method for low-velocity, low-amplitude adjustments. It’s often called the drop-table technique because it uses a special table that keeps patients comfortable during treatment. This technique treats various conditions and is popular among older adults due to its gentle approach.
In this technique, the chiropractor assesses you while you lie face down. They check if one of your legs appears shorter. This difference in leg length can be either functional or structural.
A structural difference means one leg is physically shorter, while a functional difference may be due to tight muscles making a leg look shorter in certain positions.
How Does it Work?
Chiropractors begin by checking leg length to identify a short leg. For example, if your right leg looks shorter, this usually suggests an issue on that side. Next, they perform a test to determine how to adjust the area that feels stiff or fixed.
A challenge test is performed by applying pressure to the upper part of the pelvis on the right side. If the test balances your legs, that’s the area the chiropractor will adjust. Then, they will push down on your pelvis, and allow the table to drop beneath you.
The table does most of the work, using quick, gentle pushes. This makes it more comfortable for you and reduces strain on the chiropractor. They will push 2-3 times on the segment and then check for any changes. Some people prefer this technique over being adjusted on their side.
Usually, someone in pain who needs the Thompson Technique will have 2-3 weekly adjustments until they see improvement. If there’s no progress, the chiropractor has to use other options to help manage your symptoms.
Medical Conditions Treated
This technique is effective for treating various painful conditions. Its gentle approach makes it especially suitable for chronic back pain. Research shows it can help adjust pelvic tilt in patients with pelvic misalignment. It can also correct the inward curve of the neck in those with cervical alignment issues. Other helpful uses include:
Prenatal Pain Relief
Pregnant women with back pain and other common discomforts often find relief with the Thompson drop chiropractic technique.
Pediatric Health and Wellness Care
Teenagers and children can safely benefit from this gentle chiropractic technique during development and growth.
Senior Patient Pain Management
Seniors, including those who are more fragile and may be hesitant about chiropractic care, appreciate the gentle adjustments of the Thompson Drop Table.
What Makes the Thompson Technique Unique?
A unique feature of the Thompson Technique is how it checks for leg length differences when a patient is lying face down on the table. The patient wears shoes to help with the measurements. The chiropractor flexes the feet to find neurological imbalances that may make one leg seem longer. This process helps the chiropractor decide on the specific adjustment needed.
During the adjustment, the patient lies on a specialized table adjusted to their weight. With the patient’s head supported, the chiropractor uses a quick thrust with minimal force. The table then drops slightly to lower the area being adjusted.
This helps the adjustment and allows the joint to move through its normal range. It provides full correction while using less force than traditional methods.
Why Should You Consider Scheduling First Session?
Even if you don’t have severe pain or disability from a spinal issue, consider the Thompson drop table technique. Many everyday discomforts come from musculoskeletal imbalances. You also get many benefits like:
- A stronger, more flexible body
- Less chronic pain without medications
- Better, more restful sleep
- Improved posture
- Increased stress tolerance
Also read on our Blog: What to Expect during a Full Body Chiropractic Adjustment?
FAQs
What is the difference between Thompson and Gonstead?
The Thompson Drop Technique also uses a special table. Like the diversified technique, it requires less force but adds the “dropping” motion of the table. On the other hand, the Gonstead technique requires the patient to sit or stand. The chiropractor adjusts the affected area using their hands.
What is a positive Thompson Test?
If the test is positive, the foot does not move (it should usually point downward) when the calf is squeezed. This suggests a possible rupture of the Achilles tendon.
What is the Thompson Technique for back pain?
This technique focuses on aligning the vertebrae in the spine. It uses a drop table to provide a gentle thrust. The method includes rolling and rocking motions to help move the spine.
