Chiropractic Care Techniques in Fort Lauderdale, FL

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Chiropractic care is not a single technique. Spine & Joint Center uses a range of adjusting and soft tissue methods, and the right one depends on your condition, your history, and what feels comfortable to your body. The techniques below are the ones the practice uses most often for back pain, neck pain, sciatica, disc problems, sports injuries, and pregnancy-related discomfort. Every plan starts with an examination — your Doctor of Chiropractic will explain which techniques suit your condition and comfort level, and adjust the approach as you progress.

Chiropractic Techniques Used at Spine & Joint Center

Diversified Technique

The Diversified Technique is a hands-on form of spinal manipulation. After a thorough assessment, the chiropractor uses precise manual thrusts together with spinal palpation to realign the spine and joints and restore the spine’s natural curvature and mobility. Adjustments are tailored to each patient rather than applied to a fixed formula, which is why the technique suits a wide range of people, from athletes to seniors. It is the most widely used adjusting approach at the practice.

Gonstead Technique

The Gonstead Technique places emphasis on precise analysis before any adjustment. It relies on a detailed study of spinal biomechanics, including diagnostic imaging and specific palpation, to locate misalignments and areas of dysfunction. Only then does the chiropractor deliver a precise manual adjustment aimed at the identified segment. Because diagnosis comes first, the technique favours targeted correction over broad manipulation, and it is paired with patient education so you understand what is being corrected and why.

Activator Method

The Activator Method is a low-force, instrument-assisted approach. Instead of a manual thrust, a handheld spring-loaded instrument delivers a precise, controlled impulse to a specific spinal segment. Because the impulse is quicker than the body’s tendency to tense and guard, the surrounding muscles stay relaxed while the adjustment is made. It suits patients who prefer a gentler experience, including people who feel anxious about manual adjustments, older adults, patients with osteoporosis or fragile joints, and those in very acute pain where positioning for a manual adjustment is difficult.

Drop Table Adjustments

Drop Table Adjustments use a specially designed segmented table whose sections drop slightly as the adjustment is delivered. That controlled drop allows the chiropractor to achieve precise spinal alignment with less force than a standard manual thrust, and without putting excessive pressure through the spine. Because it is gentler, the technique is often chosen by patients who are sensitive to forceful manipulation, and it is particularly useful for conditions such as herniated discs and sciatica.

Webster Technique

The Webster Technique is a specialised approach for pregnant patients. It focuses on the sacrum and its relationship to the pelvis, with the aim of restoring proper pelvic alignment and reducing nervous system interference. Because pelvic alignment affects how the surrounding muscles and ligaments function during pregnancy, the technique is used to ease pregnancy-related discomfort and support better function through each trimester. Adjustments are adapted to the stage of pregnancy, and the practice also provides care through the postpartum period.

Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression is a non-surgical therapy delivered on a motorised traction table. A controlled, intermittent pull is applied along the length of the spine, gently separating the vertebrae so that pressure inside the affected disc drops. This negative pressure is thought to help retract bulging or herniated disc material and take pressure off the compressed nerve. At Spine & Joint Center it is used for herniated and bulging discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, pinched nerves, and chronic low back pain.

Graston Technique

The Graston Technique is an instrument-assisted form of soft tissue therapy. Specialised stainless-steel instruments are glided over the skin to detect and treat areas of scar tissue and fascial restriction. The aim is to break down fibrous tissue and encourage better blood flow to the affected area, which supports the body’s own healing response. Reported benefits include reduced pain and inflammation, improved range of motion, and faster recovery. At Spine & Joint Center it is used alongside chiropractic care for soft tissue injuries and restrictions.

Dry Needling

Dry needling uses fine filament needles, similar to those used in acupuncture, inserted into specific trigger points within a muscle. The target is the tight band of muscle that produces local pain and referred discomfort rather than the meridian system. Releasing the trigger point reduces muscular tension and improves blood flow to the area. At Spine & Joint Center it is used for myofascial pain, headaches, and sports-related injuries, and it is usually combined with chiropractic adjustment rather than used on its own.

Myofascial Release

Myofascial release targets the fascia — the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, and organs. Fascia can tighten and develop restrictions after injury, poor posture, or prolonged strain, which limits movement and contributes to pain. The technique applies gentle, sustained pressure and stretching to specific areas of restriction to break down adhesions and restore natural muscle movement. At Spine & Joint Center it is used to address the underlying soft tissue cause of discomfort rather than only the presenting symptom.

Ultrasound Therapy

Therapeutic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves applied through the skin to reach tissue beneath the surface. The vibration increases blood flow to the treated area, which helps reduce inflammation and ease pain in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It is used for soft tissue complaints such as tendonitis, bursitis, and muscle strains, and it is applied as a supporting modality alongside manual care rather than as a standalone treatment. Reported benefits include enhanced tissue healing, reduced inflammation, pain reduction, and improved mobility.

Cold Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that applies low-level laser light to damaged tissue. The light penetrates the skin and stimulates cellular repair, which is intended to reduce inflammation and accelerate the body’s natural healing response. Because it does not involve medication or surgery, it is often chosen by patients who want to avoid pharmaceuticals or more invasive options. At Spine & Joint Center it is used for chronic pain and soft tissue injuries, usually as part of a broader plan that includes chiropractic adjustment.

Active Release Therapy (ART)

Active Release Therapy (ART) treats soft tissue injuries by combining targeted hand pressure with specific patient movements. The aim is to break down adhesions that form in muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves after overuse or trauma — the restrictions that limit movement and keep tissue painful. Each session is tailored to the individual, and the technique is intended to restore mobility and function rather than only relieve symptoms. Athletes and active people often use it to maintain muscle health and reduce the risk of repeat injury.

Chiropractic Care Techniques in Fort Lauderdale: FAQ

Which chiropractic technique is right for me?

That is decided after an examination, not before. Your Doctor of Chiropractic will assess your condition, your history, and your comfort level, explain which adjusting methods fit, and adjust the plan as you progress. The practice offers manual care such as Diversified and Gonstead, low-force care such as the Activator Method and drop table adjustments, and soft tissue methods including Graston, dry needling, myofascial release, and Active Release Therapy.

Do you use manual adjustments or instruments?

Both. Diversified and Gonstead use manual thrusts. The Activator Method uses a handheld spring-loaded instrument to deliver a low-force impulse, and drop table adjustments use a segmented table. If you feel anxious about manual adjustments, have osteoporosis or fragile joints, are pregnant, or are an older adult, the gentler options are worth discussing with your Doctor of Chiropractic.

What is the difference between chiropractic care and physical therapy?

Chiropractic care focuses on spinal alignment and joint adjustments to address the root cause of pain, while physical therapy emphasises exercise and movement rehabilitation. At Spine & Joint Center Fort Lauderdale, Dr. Kellerman combines both approaches — adjustments plus rehabilitation exercises — for faster recovery and longer-lasting results.

How long does a chiropractic adjustment take?

A standard chiropractic adjustment at Spine & Joint Center Fort Lauderdale takes 15 to 30 minutes for established patients and 45 to 60 minutes for your first visit, which includes a full evaluation and treatment plan. Many patients report measurable relief after their first appointment — your results will depend on your condition and treatment plan.

Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor in Fort Lauderdale?

No, you do not need a referral to see a chiropractor in Fort Lauderdale. Chiropractors are Florida-licensed chiropractic physicians, so you can call (954) 561-4700 and schedule directly. If your insurance plan requires a referral for chiropractic coverage, we can help you verify benefits before your visit.

Are same-day appointments available?

Same-day appointments are available. Call (954) 561-4700 to check availability at the Oakland Park clinic, which serves patients from Fort Lauderdale and across Broward County.

Spine & Joint Center | 410 NE 44th St, Oakland Park, FL 33334 | (954) 561-4700
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Sat 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Sun Closed
Proudly serving Fort Lauderdale & Broward County from Oakland Park, FL

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