Drop Table Technique

A drop table adjustment is a gentle, effective adjusting technique that uses a specialized chiropractic table with sections that gently drop during the adjustment. This allows the chiropractor to use less force while still achieving precise joint movement, making it a comfortable option for many patients.

What is the Drop Table Technique?

The drop table technique (often associated with Thompson-style adjusting) uses a table with segmented sections for different parts of the body, such as the head, mid-back, pelvis, or legs. When an adjustment is delivered, the table section drops slightly, assisting the joint’s motion. This drop enhances the effectiveness of the adjustment while minimizing strain on both the patient and the chiropractor.

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Drop Table Adjustment

How Does a Drop Table Adjustment Work?

As the chiropractor applies a quick, controlled thrust, the table section drops slightly at the same moment.

How it Helps

  • Reduces the amount of force needed
  • Helps the joint move more freely
  • Improves comfort during the adjustment

Patients often feel a gentle “thump” from the table drop rather than a sharp movement.

Commonly Treated Conditions

  • Patients who prefer a gentler adjustment
  • People with low back or pelvic pain
  • Those with muscle tension or stiffness
  • Patients recovering from injuries
  • Individuals who are nervous about traditional adjustments
most popular questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Drop table technique is considered very safe and is widely used in chiropractic care. The controlled drop allows for effective adjustments with reduced force.

No. Most patients describe it as a light tapping or thumping sensation. It is generally very comfortable and well-tolerated.

Absolutely. The dropping motion enhances joint movement, allowing the adjustment to be just as effective as more forceful techniques.

Sometimes, but not always. The sound is not required for an adjustment to work. The goal is improved joint motion and function.

Yes. Drop table adjustments can be applied to the neck, mid-back, pelvis, hips, and even extremities depending on the patient’s needs.

Traditional adjustments rely more on manual force, while drop table technique uses the table’s motion to assist the adjustment, making it gentler and more comfortable for many patients.

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