The Pettibon Spinal Biomechanics
The nervous system coordinates and controls all systems of the body and relates the individual to their environment (Gray’s Anatomy). The nervous system controls and directs every function of the body through the spinal nerves that exit the spinal column. Pressure on spinal nerves and the spinal cord from misaligned vertebra creates pain and a lack of health in the body. For over one hundred years Chiropractors have been adjusting or manipulating the spine to reduce nervous pressure and pain.
The Pettibon Procedures are an advanced, scientific approach to Chiropractic that are taught as an elective or at postgraduate level. They exceed the standard chiropractic college curriculum. These procedures include progressive treatment plans. The first plan is based on ligament physiology. Its goal is to get the patient out of pain by causing the uncompensated spine to re-organize into a compensated position. The second plan is based upon muscle physiology. Its goal is to rehabilitate and correct the units of the global spine so it aligns to its gravitational field. The third plan occurs after spinal correction and rehabilitation. Most knowledgeable patients want to have periodic checkups. They also continue in an active exercise program to arrest and reverse the subluxations effects of their jobs, recreational activities and their life styles.
Chiropractors claim to “adjust” or “manipulate” the spine. If this is true, the results or changes should be visible on x-rays taken after the adjustment or manipulation. The Pettibon Procedures are one of the few techniques in Chiropractic that cause measurable changes by using repeatable scientific methods to measure before and after x-rays. Pettibon x-ray analysis may involve over 41 lines and 23 angles to specifically locate the displaced vertebra.
The Pettibon Procedures include adjustment or manipulation by hand and also with one or more mechanical adjusting instruments for precise application of correcting forces. The purpose of the adjustment is to realign the vertebra and spinal units so they may “react” to the body’s environment (gravity). Patients are instructed in specific in office and at home exercises to speed recovery, stabilize the spine, rehabilitated soft tissue, and reduce the number of required office visits. Regularly scheduled exams monitor the patient’s progress as well as to modify adjusting and exercise procedures, which results in patients becoming healthier faster and staying healthy longer.
