Diversified Chiropractic Technique in Holland Park, Brisbane
If you are exploring chiropractic care in Holland Park, Brisbane, you will likely encounter the Diversified technique, as it is one of the most widely taught and utilised chiropractic methods globally. It is considered a cornerstone technique within the profession, primarily involving manual adjustments. At Silky Oak Chiropractic, Dr. Jan Jones is highly proficient in the Diversified technique, often using it as a primary approach, alongside other methods, to address musculoskeletal conditions based on a thorough patient assessment. This page provides information about the Diversified chiropractic technique.
Understanding the Diversified Chiropractic Technique: Characteristics and Approach
The Diversified technique is fundamentally a hands-on approach focused on identifying and addressing joint dysfunction, particularly in the spine. Its key characteristics include:
1. Manual High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude (HVLA) Adjustments: The hallmark of the Diversified technique is the application of a manual High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude (HVLA) thrust. This involves the chiropractor using their hands to apply a quick (high-velocity), specific, and shallow (low-amplitude) force directly to a joint that has been identified as restricted or dysfunctional. The aim is to restore motion to the joint, influencing its mechanics and potentially the surrounding tissues.
2. Assessment Primarily Through Palpation: Practitioners using the Diversified technique rely heavily on manual diagnostic skills, particularly palpation. This involves using the hands to feel for joint movement (motion palpation), assess joint position (static palpation), evaluate muscle tone and tenderness, and identify areas of restriction or abnormal function in the spine and extremities. These palpatory findings are crucial in determining where and how to apply the Diversified adjustment.
3. Focus on Restoring Normal Joint Biomechanics: The core objective of applying a Diversified adjustment is to improve or restore normal movement and mechanical function to joints that are not moving properly (‘stuck’ or restricted). Proper joint mobility is considered essential for overall musculoskeletal health, efficient movement, and potentially reducing mechanical stress on surrounding tissues.
4. Potential for Audible Release (Cavitation): Similar to other HVLA techniques, a ‘pop’ or ‘crack’ sound (cavitation) may occur during a Diversified adjustment. As previously explained, this sound is thought to be the release of gas bubbles from the joint fluid due to pressure changes during the thrust. It is not bones cracking and is not considered necessary for the adjustment to be effective in improving joint function.
5. Application to Spine and Extremities: While heavily focused on the spine, Diversified adjusting procedures can also be adapted and applied to restricted joints in the extremities, such as the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle, and foot, based on assessment findings.
6. Role in Managing Musculoskeletal Conditions: The Diversified technique is a primary form of Spinal Manipulation Therapy (SMT). As such, its use is supported by the body of scientific evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of SMT for managing several common musculoskeletal conditions. Clinical practice guidelines frequently recommend SMT (often encompassing Diversified-style adjustments) as a viable treatment option for non-specific low back pain (acute and chronic), certain types of neck pain, and some headaches (e.g., cervicogenic headaches), often showing results comparable to other standard conservative treatments (Reference 1, 2, 3). Within a care plan, Diversified adjustments aim to reduce pain and improve function by addressing underlying joint dysfunction.
7. Integration Within a Comprehensive Care Strategy: The Diversified adjustment is rarely used in isolation. It forms a key component of a broader patient management approach at Silky Oak Chiropractic. This includes a thorough assessment, patient education, advice on posture and ergonomics, specific exercise recommendations (stretching and strengthening), and potentially other complementary manual therapies (like soft tissue work or mobilisation) tailored to the individual’s needs.
Our Process: The Diversified Technique at Silky Oak Chiropractic
When the Diversified technique is employed as part of your care, the process follows our standard commitment to thoroughness and patient-centred practice:
1. Comprehensive Assessment: Your care begins with a detailed consultation covering your health history, symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. A comprehensive physical examination follows, with a strong emphasis on manual assessment techniques central to the Diversified approach. This includes postural analysis, range of motion testing, relevant orthopaedic and neurological tests, and detailed static and motion palpation of the spine and other relevant joints.
2. Identifying Areas for Adjustment: Through careful palpation and functional assessment, specific joints exhibiting restricted movement, tenderness, or other signs of dysfunction relevant to your condition are identified as candidates for a Diversified adjustment.
3. Informed Consent: Dr. Jan Jones will discuss the examination findings and the proposed management plan, explaining the rationale for using the Diversified technique, what the procedure involves, and potential responses, ensuring you can make an informed decision about your care.
4. Performing the Diversified Adjustment: You will be positioned comfortably on the chiropractic table, often lying face down, on your side, or seated, depending on the area being addressed. Dr. Jones will use specific hand contacts on or near the targeted joint. A precise, quick (HVLA) thrust will then be applied. You will feel the movement, possibly hear a cavitation sound, and typically experience minimal discomfort.
5. Re-Assessment: Following the adjustment(s), Dr. Jones may re-assess the mobility of the treated joints, check for changes in tenderness, or evaluate improvements in your range of motion or functional tests.
6. Post-Adjustment Care and Advice: You will receive guidance on self-care measures to support the effects of the adjustment. This typically includes specific exercises or stretches, advice on activity modification, postural awareness, and potentially the application of heat or cold. This supportive care is vital for achieving lasting results.
References:
(Note: These references support the use of Spinal Manipulation Therapy (SMT), which commonly includes Diversified technique adjustments, for relevant musculoskeletal conditions, consistent with AHPRA guidelines.)
- Low Back Pain: Paige NM, Miake-Lye IM, Booth MS, et al. Association of Spinal Manipulative Therapy With Clinical Benefit and Harm for Acute Low Back Pain: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA. 2017;317(14):1451–1460. (Supports SMT as a treatment option for acute LBP).
- Chronic Low Back Pain: Rubinstein SM, de Zoete A, van Middelkoop M, et al. Benefits and harms of spinal manipulative therapy for the treatment of chronic low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. BMJ. 2019;364:l689. (Supports SMT for chronic LBP, often with moderate certainty evidence for small to moderate effects).
- Neck Pain & Headache: Bryans R, Descarreaux M, Duranleau M, et al. Evidence-based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with neck pain. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2014;37(1):42-63. (Includes recommendations for SMT for certain types of neck pain and headache).
- Neurophysiological Effects (Review): Pickar JG. Neurophysiological effects of spinal manipulation. Spine J. 2002;2(5):357-371. (Discusses potential mechanisms associated with SMT).
- General Chiropractic Guideline (Low Back Pain): Globe G, Farabaugh RJ, Hawk C, et al. Clinical Practice Guideline: Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2016;39(1):1-22. (Contextualises chiropractic care, largely involving techniques like Diversified, within evidence-based guidelines).
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page describes the Diversified Chiropractic Technique as utilised within our practice and is for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical or chiropractic advice or guarantee specific outcomes. The effectiveness and suitability of any chiropractic technique depend on the individual patient, the condition being addressed, the practitioner’s skill, and other factors. While evidence supports the use of spinal manipulation therapy (like the Diversified technique) for certain musculoskeletal conditions, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a registered chiropractor, for a thorough assessment, diagnosis, and discussion of appropriate treatment options based on your individual circumstances and health status. Do not disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. All healthcare interventions carry potential risks and benefits. Treatment outcomes can vary between individuals.
