The Creek Chiropractic & Wellness
Thompson Technique in Battle Creek
The Thompson Technique is a gentle, precise chiropractic method that uses a specialized drop table to reduce the force needed for a spinal adjustment. Dr. Leatherman uses it at our Battle Creek clinic to correct joint restrictions with less pressure than a traditional manual adjustment, a comfortable option for patients of every age and comfort level.
Why The Creek
Why choose thompson technique near you?
Patients from Battle Creek and the surrounding communities appreciate having a gentler adjusting option available. Dr. Leatherman offers the Thompson Technique alongside other chiropractic methods so your care plan can be tailored to your comfort level and your exam findings.
The Thompson Technique, developed by Dr. J. Clay Thompson, relies on a segmented adjusting table with sections that drop a fraction of an inch the instant a precise, low-force contact is applied. That small drop assists the adjustment, meaning Dr. Leatherman can restore normal joint motion using significantly less thrust than a standard manual technique requires.
Before any adjustment, a leg-length analysis and motion palpation pinpoint exactly which segments of the spine or pelvis are restricted. This lets each adjustment be targeted and specific, rather than a general approach, which is part of why the Thompson Technique is such a popular, comfortable option for new patients and anyone who prefers a gentler adjusting style.
Why patients choose it
Who can benefit from thompson technique
- Gentle, low-force adjustment using a specialized drop table
- Comfortable option for patients who prefer less manual pressure
- Precise, segment-specific correction guided by leg-length analysis
- Well suited to patients of all ages, including children and seniors
- Drug-free relief for back, neck, and nerve-related pain
- Restores balanced spinal and pelvic motion
What is the Thompson Technique?
The Thompson Technique is a chiropractic adjusting method built around a specialized segmented drop table. When Dr. Leatherman applies a precise, low-force contact to a restricted spinal or pelvic segment, the corresponding section of the table drops a fraction of an inch, assisting the correction and reducing the amount of manual thrust required.
- Segmented drop table: each section moves independently to support a targeted, low-force adjustment
- Guided by leg-length analysis: helps identify exactly which segments are restricted before and after care
- Gentle, comfortable feel: a light thud replaces the higher-force thrust of a traditional manual adjustment
- Suitable for a wide range of patients: from children to seniors to anyone who prefers a gentler style
How it works
What to expect
Your visit begins with motion palpation and a leg-length analysis to identify which segments of your spine or pelvis are restricted. Dr. Leatherman then positions you comfortably on the drop table and applies a precise, low-force contact, and the table assists the correction, so you feel a light drop rather than a firm thrust.
Many patients find the Thompson Technique especially comfortable, and it pairs well with other services like chiropractic care and massage therapy as part of a broader care plan.
- Step 1
Leg-length and motion analysis
Dr. Leatherman checks for functional leg-length differences and restricted spinal segments to identify precisely where the drop-table adjustment is needed.
- Step 2
A personalized care plan
You get a plain-English explanation of what we found and a specific, time-bound plan built around the Thompson Technique and any complementary care you need.
- Step 3
Gentle drop-table adjustment
A precise, low-force contact triggers the table's spring-loaded drop, restoring joint motion with noticeably less thrust than a traditional manual adjustment.
What it helps
Related conditions we treat with thompson technique
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What is the Thompson Technique?+
The Thompson Technique is a chiropractic adjusting method that uses a segmented drop table. Sections of the table drop slightly the instant a precise, low-force contact is applied, which assists the adjustment and reduces the amount of manual thrust needed to restore normal joint motion.
Is the Thompson Technique safe?+
Yes. It's considered one of the gentler chiropractic methods available, which is why it's often chosen for patients who prefer lower-force care, including children, seniors, and anyone new to chiropractic. Dr. Leatherman reviews your health history before recommending any technique.
Does the drop table hurt or make a loud noise?+
Most patients feel only a light thud as the table section drops; it's not painful. Many describe the Thompson Technique as one of the more comfortable adjusting styles available.
How is the Thompson Technique different from a traditional adjustment?+
A traditional manual adjustment relies entirely on the doctor's hands to deliver the corrective force. The Thompson Technique uses a spring-loaded drop table to assist that force, meaning less pressure is needed from the doctor to achieve the same joint correction.
What does the leg-length analysis check for?+
Dr. Leatherman checks for small, functional differences in leg length that can indicate pelvic or spinal imbalance. This analysis helps target exactly which segments need adjusting and confirms the correction was effective afterward.
Will my insurance cover Thompson Technique adjustments?+
Many plans cover chiropractic adjustments regardless of the specific technique used. We verify your benefits before your first visit and offer affordable self-pay options as well.
Disclaimer: We do not diagnose or treat conditions, diseases, or symptoms. Our care is centered on improving the neuromusculoskeletal system by addressing spinal subluxations and the subluxation complex. Any improvement in overall health or function is the natural result of restoring proper spinal alignment and supporting the body's innate ability to heal itself. For medical diagnosis or treatment, please consult a licensed medical professional.