Alive Blog
Activator method
Functioning, rationale and indications
The use of different tools in chiropractic is a “hot” subject. Adjustment philosophy gravitates around two poles: on one side, there are “traditional” chiropractors, who (as the word says, chiro = hand and praktikos = practice) use their hands and only their hands to deliver adjustments and optimise the functioning of the nervous system. The Gonstead system – for example – belongs to this group. On the other side, there are chiropractors that make use of all sorts of tools: straps, blocks, lasers, massage guns and so forth. The “diversified” approach – which we use at Alive Chiropractic – often includes elements from each group with no particular limitations.
Activator uses and function
The activator is a hand-held instrument (it looks a bit like a syringe made of metal) which delivers a fast and low amplitude force impulse to spinal joints with the goal of restoring proper joiny motion to the targeted area. In addition to the mechanical stimulus, there is also an involuntary neuro-physiological response from the body (this is why the activator is also great to simply correct posture).
In the US, Australia, Canada and New Zealand it is one of the most common interventions used by chiropractors. The force is adjustable and it can go from a very mild impulse (almost imperceptible) to a quite strong impulse. There is no electricity, no chemical compound. The output is purely mechanical and it comes from a spring which can be regulated before delivering the adjustment. In a few words, what this instrument does is allowing chiropractors to provide a quick, low-force impulse at specific points. Low force is a must – for example in people with osteopenia (low bone density).
Advantages
The main advantage of using the Activator are related to speed. The speed reached by the activator is not replicable by human hand. As a consequence, the client’s muscles are much less likely to get tense “waiting” for the adjustment. In other words, there is much less resistance and less resistance coincides with more effectiveness.ย
Moreover, this tool is very precise. If – as an example – I need to move the spinous process of the T2 segment towards the right, after I localise the segment the activator allows me to move that segment and that segment only. I will not touch any other segments, as often happens when using hands only.ย
Research on th Activator is limited, but there are a few studies that shows positive and promising results.ย
You can read more about it here:ย









I have 38 years of patchy recovery from a nursing back injury.
This intensive approach has markedly reduced my painful episodes and spinal posture problems.
My family has noticed a big difference in me with many obvious and subtle improvements.
I look forward to continuing this progress with both Edo and Phil to achieve further improvements.






Saved me from different injuries and helped me a lot of chronic issues I was dealing with.
He is a saviour.
Highly recommended









You are always polite, very knowledgeable with great approach to patients.
To all interested - do not hesitate, I highly recommend! See you soon!

Will definitely be visiting again!

I would fully recommend Alive Chiropractic,
Edo is a very warm, welcoming caring and does not judge.





He explained what and how he was going to help me , had an extensive treatment period to begin with and then became a monthly visitor .
He has been so much help to me over this time and I would recommend his gifts to everyone.
A truly lovely man and gifted communicator and practitioner.
If in pain go and give him a try , living in a body that feels like a prison is no fun but this guy has the keys to set you free!

Offers practical advice for individuals of any age
Explains proposed programs well
Very confident that treatment will be successful
Highly recommend
I am sleeping more comfortably again, my walking has improved too, my confidence has improved, I was treated with great respect. I have learnt new exercises which also has helped thanks to Ed owner of Alive chiropractor and Phil too for his excellent deep tissue massage therapy. I cannot thank them both enough, I feel like a new person!
Iโve now signed up for a regular maintenance programme. Thank you both very much, itโs very much appreciated.

He certainly has 'healing hands'.
Clearly passionate about his profession, not only does his treatment keep you supple. He also gives plenty of advise & exercises to keep yourself active.
The waiting room area is that of peace & tranquility with soothing background music.
There is ample free parking.
You've nothing to lose but everything to gain if you want to stay fit, healthy and active.
I highly recommend his expertise & personalised approach.
I highly recommend Edo and Alive Chiropractic. Great service from initial assessment, to treatment, and ongoing progress checks. As well as a range of exercises to continue at home.
As well as the work he done with me in the clinic, he has taught me many different exercises to help me with the problems in which i suffer with, as well as explaining to me how my diet can also help me going forward.
He has been a great help, and i shall continue to see him in the future so that he can help me maintain ( and improve) my well being.
Regards
Peter



Dr Edo provides a whole body approach to resolving chiropractic issues. His care plan to help solve your unique issues is fantastic, short and simple adjustments rather than long sessions of big adjustments has worked brilliantly for me. Communications are easy and booking ahead is brilliant for me and my schedule.
I canโt recommend Alive highly enough!

The reception is also very welcoming. I very much recommend this place!




Dr Edo is professional, knowledge, and believes firmly in his work which he is clearly passionate about. I feel he has an empowering vision, cares deeply, and has a refreshing balance of western and eastern understanding. Because of this, Dr Edo has a deeper, holistic approach by taking into account all aspects of one's lifestyle (diet, exercise, mental/emotional state) in sessions. For someone like myself who values a holistic perspective on health, Dr Edo's approach is invaluable and helped me relax and feel at great ease. Sam in reception is lovely and you instantly feel welcomed when coming in for a session also. Thank you to you both. Highly recommend!



Thank you!






I will happily recommend Alive Chiropractic to my friends.


Ed takes a very holistic approach, encouraging me to lose weight and work on different rehab exercises to reinforce the manipulations and adjustments he made.
Here I am some three months on, I weigh a lot less, I have incredible flexibility in my lower back and can now touch my toes and, best of all. I have full flexibility of my neck.
Eds holistic approach really works, he is very approachable and easy to chat about things with.
One caveat, Ed knows when you haven't done your exercises so don't cheat. ๐
I cannot thank him enough for the massive improvements in my health and his encouraging me to make little changes for a healthier long term lifestyle.
