Our husband-and-wife team of chiropractors, Drs. David and Melody Spear, offers two distinct and effective methods of care. Dr. Melody provides NetworkSpinal (NS) chiropractic care that is ultra gentle or "low force" yet powerfully invites the body to reorganize spinal cord tension moving the body toward ease, optimization and flow. Dr. David offers a more traditional method of "Diversified" chiropractic care providing manual adjustments while utilizing a drop table and an activator. The adjustments with Dr. David usually result in the "popping" sound that many people associate with chiropractic. The diversity in our chiropractic approaches allows our clients to receive the best and most effective care that is uniquely suited to their specific needs. Read on to learn about the chiropractic techniques in which we specialize.
The Webster Technique
As defined by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) the Webster Technique is:
“A specific chiropractic sacral analysis and diversified adjustment. The goal of the adjustment is to reduce the effects of sacral subluxation / SI joint dysfunction. In so doing neuro-biomechanical function in the pelvis is facilitated.”
The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic technique that is used to help optimize a pregnant women’s pelvic function. During pregnancy sacral misalignments can cause tightening and torsion of specific pelvis muscles and ligaments. It is these tense muscles and ligaments and their constraining effect on the uterus that may prevent the baby from comfortably assuming the best possible position for birth. It's important to note that The Webster Technique is not a "breech turning" technique, but rather an analysis and adjustment of the sacrum, thus minimizing intrauterine constraint.
At Body of Light, we have seen many expectant mothers presenting in the breech, as well as transverse and posterior positions. The Webster Technique has been extremely successful in balancing the mother’s pelvis and assisting the baby in getting into the most optimal position for birth. The Webster Technique is extremely gentle and safe for both mom and baby.
Drs. David and Melody are certified in the Webster Technique by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA).
For more information about the Webster Technique, read this article or visit the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) website.
NetworkSpinal (NS)
NetworkSpinal is a dynamic and cutting edge evidence-based technique that utilizes gentle and specific contacts to the spine that assist in promoting body/mind awareness, physical and emotional transformation, and a vibrant sense of well-being. The light touch contacts work as a catalyst to mobilize stored spinal tension while encouraging the body towards a more efficient use of systemic energy and better nerve signaling.
NS is a unique and extraordinarily gentle type of spinal care that supports clients on their wellness journey allowing them to progress in body, mind and spirit. NS is great for everyone.
Diversified
Diversified is a widely utilized chiropractic technique and one that is taught at most chiropractic colleges. In addition to being one of the most commonly used of all the chiropractic techniques, Diversified is the one probably most familiar to clients. The Diversified adjustment involves a high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust that usually results in a cavitation of a joint (quick, shallow thrusts that cause the popping noise often associated with a chiropractic adjustment). The object of the technique is to restore proper alignment of the spinal column and create better joint function thus enabling the central nervous system to work at it’s optimal level.
Drop Table
This is a specific chiropractic method and is a variation of the Diversified technique that uses a special table with several segments called drop pieces. These segments can be cocked up a fraction of an inch, so when the thrust is delivered, the table will drop this fraction of an inch. The object of the drop is to distract (open) the joint during the adjustment. The drop pieces assist the practitioner’s thrust and work with the force of gravity thus minimizing the force required for the adjustment.
The drop table is extremely beneficial for pregnant women. A pregnancy pillow allows the mother to comfortably lay face down on the table. The drop table is then used to gently adjust the pelvis and/or lower back. The adjustments are very safe and gentle for mom and baby.
Activator
The Activator is a hand-held, spring-loaded adjustment tool. Instead of the adjusting forces being delivered by hand, force is generated with the small appliance that delivers a lighter, but quicker, thrust than can be delivered by hand. Activator can be used as a primary treatment protocol for all patients or a selective method for patients who may not desire manual adjustment or where manual adjustment may be contraindicated. There is no “popping” sound when the activator is used.
The activator is a very effective and gentle approach for adjusting children. At Body of Light we have a pediatric specific activator tip that is appropriate for babies to adolescents.
Extremity Adjustments
Extremity adjustments are applied to joints other than those of the spine such as the shoulder, elbow, wrist and ankles. These adjustments are commonly sought after by athletes. In addition, extremity adjustments are very effective for people experiencing repetitive stress injuries (ie: carpal tunnel-like symptoms from excessive computer use).
