Dr. Rya's Adjusting Style; What I do and why.

Why I Start Light...

When I started chiropractic school, I was determined to perform only manual (hands-on) adjustments. I was sure instrument adjusting was a scam for companies to make money and chiropractors who used them were a bit lazy (yikes, I was judgy). After experiencing instrument adjusting as a patient and diving into the research in my first year of school, I realized how effective instrument adjusting can be, but was still sure I would not utilize any type of instrument in my future practice.

Fast-forward 2 years to student clinic when I had my very first patient (a fellow student). She was having intense migraines, neck pain, and tension in her shoulders. After clearing her of any red flags, I adjusted her neck. I saw her 2 days later and her migraines had gotten worse. We discussed together and with a clinician that sometimes this can happen when a person has severe nervous system dysfunction, and it typically resolves after 1-2 more adjustments. I adjusted her again. Saw her 3 days later. She had to SKIP CLASS because her migraines were so severe. My clinician adjusted her. SAME THING. This poor girl was just not getting better, and I was seriously doubting myself.

I took a step back and contemplated what we could do differently. I had taken a class called Sacro-Occipital-Technique, along with Activator courses (because my mother is very scared of being "popped"), so decided to try a gentler technique next time I saw her.

2 days later she came to clinic to get adjusted. God bless her for sticking with me. I used SOT techniques to gently adjust her neck without popping or sudden twisting, and she had instant relief. We continued with that course of action and eventually her migraines went away completely. I realized that there is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to chiropractic adjustments! Sometimes people's nervous system is already hyperactive and needs a much lighter touch. Sometimes they need additional input.

After that patient, I made it a habit to start with the lowest force/input I deem necessary, and work from that point.

Arthrostim

The first job I had out of school was with an amazing doctor who used an arthrostim, and through that experience, I learned just how powerful and impactful that instrument is when it comes to affecting the nervous system! The vibration provides neuro-input that is on a specific frequency to most effectively communicate with the body. The force is in full control of the doctor, which makes it affective on all bodies from babies to bodybuilders!

The most common interaction I have with patients is on their second adjustment day. They come in and say, "Can I be honest? I didn't think that machine would do much, but I felt a real difference!" I promise you guys, I would not use an instrument or technique that I don't believe in.

I use a combination of arthrostim and manual adjusting, whatever works best for each patient! Most cervical (neck) and thoracic (upper and mid back) are manual and typically lower back are instrument.

Cranial Work

The same fantastic doc that introduced me to the arthrostim, trained and introduced me to the art of cranial adjustments. I had some training with my SOT course in school, but she taught me the power of gentle, specific cranial adjustments. I personally experienced less headaches, and almost instant relief of sinus pain. I witnessed babies tension melt away, breastfeeding improve, and patients of all ages get better sleep! It is truly life changing.

Cranial work is assessing the movement of your cranial bones, and tension in the soft tissue that covers your skull. Removing any tension or improper movement ensures the cerebrospinal fluid can flow freely, nerves can communicate without interference, and tension is reduced throughout your body.  Again, this works for babies or bodybuilders! Each and every patient is assessed for cranial tension and appropriate cranial work is integrated into their care plan.

What to Expect

After a full assessment, I will decide which technique (or combination) will work best for your preferences and your body! I typically use the arthrostim or drops on the low back, and manual (hands on) adjustments on the rest of your back and neck. I have patients who are instruments only, and some who get full manual adjustments!