The Activator Method
If you'd prefer a lighter approach, I use a small handheld instrument for a low-force adjustment.
What is the Activator Method?
The Activator is a small, spring-loaded instrument that gives a quick, controlled tap to one spot. It's a different way to adjust a joint from using my hands, and it doesn't involve twisting. You feel a light tap and hear a click.
If you're nervous about adjustments or would rather avoid twisting, tell me. I use it with children, teens, older adults and anyone who prefers a lighter touch, as part of care for back pain, neck pain, headaches and jaw pain. Low force doesn't make it right for everyone, so I assess you first. It's one part of your chiropractic care, alongside soft tissue work and exercises, never the whole plan.
Your visit, start to finish
Take a seat in the waiting room, and I'll meet you at your appointment time.
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I assess first
I ask about your health history, including bone health, and check how you move.
Then I tell you whether the Activator suits you, or something else does.
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You choose
I explain the options, including adjustments by hand, and you decide.
You never have to accept a technique you're uncomfortable with.
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A light tap
I set the tip on the spot and give a brief, low-force tap.
You'll feel a quick tap and hear a click. I check your comfort as I go.
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Exercises for home
I finish any other care we agreed on and email you a few exercises.
Mild soreness can happen. Text me if anything worries you.
Where I may use the Activator
I use it as a low-force way to adjust the spine and some smaller joints. Not sure it fits your problem? Text me and ask.
Low back pain
A sore or stiff low back, when you'd prefer no twisting.
Read more NeckNeck pain
A stiff neck adjusted with a light tap rather than a turn of the head.
Read more HeadHeadaches
Headaches that seem to start in a tight, stiff neck.
Read more JawJaw pain
A sore or clicking jaw joint, adjusted with very little force.
Read more JointsShoulders, wrists and ankles
Smaller joints that feel stiff or sore to the touch.
Read more Hip and kneeStiff joints with arthritis
Joints with arthritis, when you'd rather keep the force low.
Read moreIs the Activator right for me?
Most people who'd like a gentler adjustment can have it. Low force still means I check a few things first.
Often a good fit
- you'd prefer less force, or no twisting or popping
- you're nervous about adjustments by hand
- you're a child, a teen or an older adult who wants a gentle approach
- you'd like a say in every technique I use
Tell me first
- you have osteoporosis or thin bones
- you're on blood thinners
- you've had an operation recently
- you've had a stroke
- you have numbness or weakness that's new or getting worse
None of these stop you booking. The Activator is already a low-force technique, and I'll choose the area and the force that suit you.
After your visit
Most people feel very little afterwards. Here's what's normal, and the one thing to act on straight away.
Call 9-1-1 for a sudden, severe headache, numbness or weakness on one side, slurred speech or a drooping face.
You may feel a little stiff
Some stiffness or soreness where I adjusted is normal, and it settles on its own.
Normal activity is fine
Carry on with your day. Gentle movement can ease any stiffness.
Your exercises
Do the few I email you, and tell me next time which ones felt hard.
Text me
If something feels worse instead of better. I'll answer when I'm between patients.
Your Activator questions
Your comfort belongs in the conversation
Tell me if you'd prefer a lighter approach. We'll discuss your concerns, assess your needs and choose care you're comfortable with.