The Activator Method chiropractic technique is a type of manual manipulation treatment used by chiropractors to treat various types of back and neck pain, as well as extremity complaints. This treatment method uses the activator adjusting instrument, which is an alternative to traditional manipulation utilizing a high velocity, low amplitude (HVLA) thrust, such as the Diversified technique. Some chiropractors use a small, hand-held instrument called the Activator Adjusting Instrument to deliver a quick, low-force impulse to spinal joints with the goal of restoring motion to the targeted joint.

Next to the Diversified technique, the Activator adjusting instrument is reported to be one of the more common therapeutic interventions used by chiropractors. According to the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, about half of full-time chiropractors have used the Activator Method in their practices. The Activator Method is also commonly used in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Activator Method Treatment

The Activator Method chiropractic technique uses a spring-loaded, hand-held mechanical instrument called the Activator adjusting instrument. This instrument allows chiropractors to provide a quick, low-force impulse at specific points.

There are two theoretical advantages of an Activator instrument-assisted treatment:

1. High speed: The instrument is so quick that the body’s muscles are less likely to tense in response, and resist the treatment. The lack of muscle resistance may facilitate the treatment’s effectiveness.
2. Controlled force: The applied force is localized and does not put the joint in any compromised positions, such as bending or twisting.

Leg Length Evaluation in the Activator Method

An evaluation of apparent leg length may be performed as part of the Activator Method treatment. This evaluation is based on the theory that apparent differences in leg length may indicate the location of spinal and/or pelvic misalignments. Activator Method treatment providers may or may not use the apparent leg length evaluation method as many rely on routine physical examination approaches such as static and motion palpation of the spine to determine the location to apply the Activator adjustment.

A typical treatment will be done while the patient lies face down on the adjustment table. The treatment typically begins with the lower back and progresses toward the head, targeting each vertebral segment individually. The chiropractor will evaluate the patient for signs and symptoms to identify the joints of the spine or the extremities that may be the source of complaints and amenable to treatment with the Activator instrument.

During a typical adjustment with the Activator instrument, the chiropractor applies the device to the tissues at or near the affected joint. An initial pressure is followed by a quick thrust from the device, which feels much like having one’s reflex tested by tapping the knee.
The patient remains still, with no twisting or turning as there often is for a traditional chiropractic adjustment (high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust). After an adjustment, the chiropractor will often examine the patient to check for improvement of signs and symptoms associated with the complaint.

A practitioner will recommend a series of treatments, such as 1 to 2 times per week, for an initial period of 4 to 6 weeks, though the final decision is dependent on each individual’s case. Once the patient’s symptoms are improved and clinical signs resolved, the Activator treatment is completed. If the patient feels no pain relief after approximately 3 to 4 treatments, the chiropractor will stop the treatment and re-evaluate the patient’s symptoms and condition. For example, the patient may need a different type of manipulation and/or referral to a different type of spine specialist.