a commonly used chiropractic adjustment using a handheld device to provide a quick, low-force and precise impulse to restore motion to the vertebrae or joints. It is an alternative or addition to manual or “hands-on” techniques, which do not use an instrument.

a pain relief technique derived from traditional Chinese medicine, similar to acupuncture but without needles. Pressure is applied to points in the body intended to activate a self-healing mechanism or energy (Qi). Typically, pressure is increased for 30 seconds, held for up to two minutes and then slowly decreased for 30 seconds.

a key component of traditional Chinese medicine most commonly used to treat pain. Thin needles are inserted through the skin at specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy (Qi). Practitioners believe that the energy flow will re-balance your body and stimulate self-healing.

pain that comes on suddenly and lasts for less than four weeks, often in the lower back. It may be caused by spasms, strains or tears.

the use of hands or small instruments to apply a controlled force to a spinal joint in order to correct a misalignment. The goal is to improve spinal mobility and function, which reduces pain and encourages the body to heal.

one of the key ligaments that stabilize the knee, connecting the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia). The ACL may be injured or torn during activities that require quick pivots and stops, such as basketball, soccer and tennis.

the uppermost vertebra in the cervical (neck) spine, designated as C1. It supports the head and was named for the god Atlas in Greek mythology, who supported the world.

the second cervical vertebra (C2), linking the atlas to the rest of the spine. The axis forms a pivot point on which the atlas can rotate so the head can move.

a bony projection that develops along the edges of bones, often in the spine as the result of wear and tear or arthritis. It may or may not cause symptoms like pain and numbness, depending on whether the spur presses on nearby structures such as nerves and muscles.

inflammation of the bursa, fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints and other structures in the body. Bursitis can cause pain and swelling.