An ever-increasing number of chiropractors are adopting Drop Piece mechanism (DPM) as an option for adjusting their clients. Unfortunately, many of those same chiropractors are not attending the relevant seminars that teach the correct method on how to use Drop Piece (DP) tables. There are 3 components to using a DP Table correctly, they are ‘Hold, Release and the Adjustment’.

Hold

This is the loading phase of the table to prepare the client for the Drop Piece adjustment. Many chiropractors make the error of using the hold component to instigate the Adjustment phase of the Drop Piece table. The Tension for a client should be enough for the practitioner to load the table; and ensure enough tension to not release the table while the practitioner places their hands to set for their adjustment and their line of drive.

It is most helpful to set the tension on the table to suit your average client (e.g. 80kg), then if you have a lighter or heavier client it is a simple process of turning the tension knob one or two turns up  (100kg client) or down (60kg client). It is important to reset your table back to the Midpoint for your average client (e.g. back to 80Kg). This should occur once that lighter/heavier client’s adjustment is completed. If your table is releasing with the client weight, and/or your hands set to drive with a minimum of pressure, then your tension is too light. Alternatively, if you need a reasonable tension to commence the Release phase then your tension is too high.

Please note springs are the main way tables increase and decrease the tension on a table. If you have your tension too high your spring can compress and reduce the life of the Drop Piece springs on your table.

Release

This phase requires the least amount of pressure to get the clients body moving and the DPM to release. The practitioner holds a constant pressure on the client. Note, the adjustment does not occur during this phase but is the preparatory phase for the adjustment. During this phase, the movement of the client and pressure from the practitioner creates a lot of proprioception which acts as a distraction.

Adjustment

At this point the table stops moving suddenly and a noise occurs (percussion) when the DPM meets the main body of the table, stopping the client’s downward movement. At this point the proprioception of the client increases and then the practitioner only needs a small amount of pressure in your line of drive to complete your adjustment. The combination of movement, noise, and sudden stop all help distract your client so that this gentle technique can create a great adjustment for your clients.

Finesse over force any day should be the motto of the best technicians and adjusters. Smaller females tend to refine this skill early due to their size. Hopefully these insights improve your adjusting skills and if you were already ‘in the know’ by the points mentioned, then refinement is still improvement.

Watch the following video to learn more about the Omni Total Drop Chiropractic Table Operation.