The Activator Adjusting Method uses an instrument referred to as the “Activator Adjusting Instrument” to provide the adjustive force. It is a small, hand held device that offers an impulse to the area being treated. This form of treatment is assessed by using the leg length analysis. Leg length analysis utilizes a series of body movements, challenges and leg checks to determine the location and listing of subluxated joints. The correction of the subluxations found with the leg checks is done with the Activator Adjusting Instrument (AAI).

There are many advantages of the Activator Adjusting Method. The Activator provides a faster impulse than the patient’s reflexes can counter. This necessitates less force due to greater speed. The adjustment is perceived as more gentle for the patient. The Activator provides greater specificity and reproducibility. It is also less stress on the chiropractor’s body.

The Activator is the most widely used chiropractic instrument. Studies show improvement with the Activator Method. It also has been compared to other techniques and proven to be just as effective. This means that for many patients an Activator adjustment could be very well lead to the same outcome as a manual adjustment. This offers chiropractors and patients an alternative to manual adjusting when it is preferred for clinical reasons.

What Makes The Activator Method Different?

The Activator provides quick, low-force impulses that create an environment in which the patient is less tense and may receive a better adjustment due to the more relaxed muscles. “Guarding” or resisting during a manual adjustment is one factor widely considered when deciding to use an activator to adjust a patient. The high speed and controlled force are very accurate and can yield a similar result to a manual adjustment. There are several different kinds of activators, some of which are electric, others are manual. Both have been proven safe and effective.