Navigating the world of chiropractic care can sometimes feel overwhelming. From traditional chiropractic like the diversified technique and extremity manipulation to upper cervical chiropractic care, there are numerous treatments to choose from that all promise to alleviate pain and improve well-being.
Did you know LIV Chiropractic Center is an upper cervical chiropractor in San Ramon? Conveniently located off Highway 680, LIV Chiropractic Center is available for patients Monday through Thursday and Saturday mornings. Book a free evaluation with Dr. Alexa today.
One technique, knee chest chiropractic, stands out, especially for those seeking specialized care in the upper cervical region. While there is a similarity between all upper cervical techniques, this specific method is known for its ability to ease pain and improve mobility. It also offers a holistic approach to living a healthier lifestyle.
But what is the knee chest chiropractic technique? And how can you be certain it’s right for you? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is the Knee Chest Chiropractic Technique?
In short, knee chest chiropractic is a technique used by upper cervical chiropractors to gently realign the top two vertebrae of the spine, the atlas and the axis. While all vertebrates protect the spinal cord, the atlas and the axis are closely connected to the brain stem which affects the nervous system. When these top two vertebrae are out of alignment, it can be difficult for the brain to receive clear messages from the body.
This technique receives its name from the position that the patient is in before an upper cervical chiropractor makes an adjustment. The patient places their knee on a padded cushion and their chest on the adjustment table.
The knee chest technique not only helps to alleviate pain such as headaches, back pain, and neck pain but also improves nervous system function. Upper cervical adjustments can also work to release tension and promote a healthy spinal alignment.
Knee Chest Upper Cervical Posture
This technique receives its name from the position that the patient is in before an upper cervical chiropractor makes an adjustment. When using this technique, the patient kneels on a specially designed, well-padded knee chest table. This table is structured to provide comfort and alignment. It also allows the patient’s chest to rest forward securely while maintaining a relaxed state in the neck and back.
By assuming this specific orientation, patients enable upper cervical chiropractors to make the most precise and effective adjustments. Additionally, when in the knee-chest upper cervical posture, the chiropractor’s alignment allows for the alleviation of nerve pressure.
Knee Chest Upper Cervical vs. Other Techniques
A knee chest table allows the patient to kneel on a padded cushion and rest their chest on the padded table. They are then facing either left or right, which allows an upper cervical chiropractor to make precise adjustments to the top two bones of the neck.
Dr. Alexa at LIV Chiropractic uses the knee chest method for chiropractic adjustments. The table is adjustable to fit all patients at all levels of mobility.
Cervical Chair Technique
A cervical chair is sometimes used by chiropractors to make adjustments to the cervical spine, primarily focusing on the neck region. The chair is designed for a patient to be seated in a slightly relaxed position to allow for adjustments of the neck.
LIV Chiropractic Center is able to treat patients with limited mobility from a seated position or in a wheelchair using a modified knee chest table. The padded table is positioned against a wall that allows for a vertical side adjustment.
Gonstead Table Technique
The Gonstead table involves a patient sitting or lying down on their side, stomach, or back, and focuses on the entire spine. This type of technique typically involves audible manipulations of the spine, like cracking knuckles.
While there are many different types of chiropractic techniques, upper cervical chiropractic is considered to be a more gentle technique that helps restore nervous system balance.
Leg-Length Checks
A Supine Leg Check (SLC) Test is an examination technique where a chiropractor assesses the lengths of the patient's legs while they are lying down. This assessment helps identify imbalances in a patient’s pelvis or spine. In essence, if one leg appears shorter than the other, it could indicate a misalignment somewhere in the body.
It’s important to note, however, that a chiropractor will not only use leg-length checks when looking for a misalignment. An SLC Test is combined with other examination techniques to help a chiropractor see the full view of a patient’s needs.
Can an upper cervical chiropractor make your legs the same length?
If the difference in leg length is due to a misalignment or imbalance in the spine or pelvis, an upper cervical chiropractor can perform adjustments to correct the issue.
However, if the leg length difference is structural, meaning one leg is anatomically shorter than the other, chiropractic adjustments cannot change the actual length of the bones. But, chiropractic adjustments can help in managing symptoms associated with such differences.
​Does LIV Chiropractic use leg length checks?
Dr. Alexa doesn’t rely on leg length checks to determine the vector of adjustment needed. Upper cervical adjustments begin with a Tytron thermography scan of the neck. The scan reports various temperature readings that informs where a vertebra may be misaligned; hence a subluxation of the spine. After an adjustment, patients rest for approximately 10 to 15 minutes and rescanned. Book a free evaluation today to see if Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care is right for you!
|
Benefits of the Knee Chest Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique
The knee chest upper cervical chiropractic technique offers numerous health benefits. Not only does this technique realign the top two vertebrates of the spine, but it also helps to restore normal function to the patient’s nervous system. Here are a few key benefits:
Knee chest positioning allows a chiropractor to focus exclusively on the upper cervical spine.
Significant alleviation of pain and discomfort in the neck, head, and back.
Enhanced nervous system function.
Improved mobility and reduced stiffness in the neck and surrounding areas.
Reduces pressure on nerves that can cause vertigo and dizziness.
Stimulates the nervous system which can reduce blood pressure and heart rate.
It’s a non-invasive, holistic approach to overall health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions about Knee Chest Chiropractic
Is the Knee Chest Chiropractic Technique painful? It is not painful; however, you may feel some pressure and tenderness after the adjustment. Tenderness typically abates after a brief rest in our recovery room.
Is the Knee Chest technique mobility friendly? Yes, Dr. Alexa is able to adjust individuals with mobility issues from an upright seated position if required.
Are there any side effects to using the knee chest method? Most patients report a general feeling of tiredness or soreness that go away within 24 hours.
How much time does it take for one adjustment? Please allow 45 minutes for each adjustment. This includes a required resting period and post adjustment scan.
How often is the adjustment repeated at one appointment? Adjustments are not repeated so that the body has time to reset and heal from misalignment.
Experience the Benefits of Upper Cervical Chiropractic
The knee chest chiropractic technique is a focused, specialized approach that brings precision to spinal adjustments in the upper cervical region. If you’re experiencing pain and discomfort, knee chest chiropractic care might just be the relief you’ve been seeking.
Don’t let pain dictate your life. Book a free evaluation with Dr. Alexa today and embark on a journey toward optimal health and well-being.
Sources: