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Chiropractic

Currently only offered out of our Vernon Location

What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a healthcare profession that focuses on diagnosing and treating the musculoskeletal and nervous system primarily through manual manipulation of the joints in the spine and extremities. Chiropractors traditionally believe many health issues can be traced back to problems with the spine and its alignment and therefore promote the idea of vitalism; in which the body has the ability to heal and self regulate when given the right conditions without interference in the body.

 

Accidents, falls, overexertion, work and stress can all negatively impact your spine or other joints. These changes impact tissues, the nervous system and other areas of the body. Left unresolved, this can make you more susceptible to chronic problems. 

 

The word chiropractic means “to be done by hand”. An adjustment is a very safe, specific, controlled force applied to a joint to restore mobility. Chiropractors use adjustments to restore joint function to support the nervous system and reduce pain to help patients improve their quality of life. Chiropractors use scientific research, clinical experience and patient preferences to provide the best care possible and may also emphasize lifestyle modifications, exercise and nutrition in the care of the human frame.

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Meet Dr Amanda Skeen!

Dr. Amanda Skeen is experienced in the function of the spine and nervous system and during your first visit, she will give you a thorough spinal checkup to determine the location of any spinal imbalance (subluxation). She will also discuss your symptoms with you in detail.

 

She specializes in everything from pregnancy adjustments, babies and children, to elderly care and everyone in between.  She strives to help empower people to live a healthier life, give them hope and guidance to take responsibility for their health and achieve their wellness goals.

 

X-Rays

If you have had X-Rays or MRI of your spine, please bring in the images and reports for your appointment so Dr. Skeen can review the alignment for a more precise adjustment. Depending on history and systems review in the initial exam, a referral for imaging may be needed before proceeding with adjustments.

Knee Chest Upper Cervical
This is a specific chiropractic adjustment method that focuses on the upper cervical spine (neck), particularly the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae and was developed by Dr. B.J Palmer in the 1930s.  As the name suggests, this technique involves a unique patient positioning of kneeling on a padded cushion and resting your chest and face on a raised platform. The chiropractor uses their hands to apply a precise and gentle adjustment to the neck and is known for being low-force and gentle, making it suitable for patients who may prefer or require a less forceful adjustment. Chiropractors who practice this technique are highly skilled and trained in this unique adjustment required for upper cervical care. Before performing this adjustment, the chiropractor does a thorough assessment, which may include the need for imaging.
Knee Chest
Diversified
The Diversified Technique is one of the most commonly used chiropractic adjustment methods, as this is the primary technique taught in chiropractic schools. It involves a high velocity, low amplitude thrust (adjustment) delivered by the chiropractor’s hands to restore proper alignment of the joint. These adjustments are typically accompanied by a popping or cracking sound, which is the release of gas within the joint. Patients may be positioned lying face down, on their side or sitting up depending on the location of the misalignment. This can be applied to various areas of the spine, including the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), lumbar and pelvic (lower back) regions. It can also be used to address joint misalignments in the extremities such as shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, ankle and feet.
Diversified
Thompson Drop
Also known as the Thompson Terminal Point Technique, it was developed by Dr. J. Clay Thompson in the 1950s to address misalignments (subluxations) in the spine primarily in the lower back and pelvic region using leg length checks. This technique uses a specialized chiropractic table with segmented drop sections. These sections are equipped with drop mechanisms that allow them to move a short distance when the chiropractor applies a specific thrust during an adjustment while the patient is lying face down on the table. The drop enhances the precision and speed of the adjustment making it very effective.
Thompson
Webster
The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic method that is primarily associated with the care of pregnant women. It was developed by Dr. Larry Webster who is the founder of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). The goal of this technique is to optimize the biomechanical function of the pelvis to help facilitate a more comfortable pregnancy and birth. In addition to spinal and pelvic adjustments, the chiropractor may perform specific techniques to relax the round ligaments of the uterus to help reduce tension within the pelvis. One of the primary uses of Webster is for women whose babies are in the breech presentation in the late stages of pregnancy. While it doesn't guarantee a change in the baby’s position, many expectant mothers have reported success in helping the baby turn head down following Webster Technique adjustments. This is done by promoting proper alignment in the lower back and pelvic bowl that allows room for the baby to engage in the best position in the uterus. Dr. Skeen is Webster certified and a member of the ICPA.
ICPA 2
Activator/ Torque Release

The Activator Technique is a specific method that uses a handheld, spring-loaded instrument known as the “Activator” to deliver precise and controlled adjustments to the spine and other joints. The instrument delivers a quick, focused impulse to the targeted joint with consistency.

 

The Torque Release Technique is a specific method that uses a handheld, spring- loaded instrument known as the “Integrator” to deliver precise and controlled adjustments to the spine and neurological integrations. It uses torque and gentle percussion to create a controlled force to affect specific vertebrae and neurological components.

 

These spring-loaded techniques are often chosen by patients who prefer a low-force, gentle and non-manual approach to chiropractic care. Some patients find this to be less intimidating and less physically demanding compared to traditional manual adjustments.

Activator
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