Dr. Howard utilizes a variety of techniques to provide the highest quality of care possible for her patients. Many people have heard of the "Palmer Package" of techniques. This package includes the variety of techniques taught at Palmer College and is utilized by many of the graduates of the college. Formal names of the techniques are listed however, Dr. Howard does modify the delivery of the technique at times in order to best serve the patient.
During Dr. Howard's training in the Palmer clinics, she developed a proficiency with many of the techniques offered at Palmer. A brief introduction to each technique that Dr. Howard utilizes follows:
Diversified: this is the classic chiropractic adjusting technique developed by D.D. Palmer. The Diversified technique utilizes specific lines of drive with each manual adjustment, therefore correcting subluxations and restoring biomechanical function. This method is also used to address the subluxations that exist in the extremities.
Gonstead: this is a specific technique based on a "foundation principle" in that fixation in one area of the spine can cause compensation and symptoms in other areas. Clarence S. Gonstead developed this technique in his early years as a chiropractor. The Gonstead approach to cervical (neck) adjusting is performed with the patient seated to remove much of the rotation that occurs with other techniques.
Extremity Adjusting: extremities, like the spine, can develop subluxations and fixations causing a multitude of conditions. There are different techniques that can be utilized in adjusting the extremities, and just like in the spine, Dr. Howard utilizes the technique that she feels will best work for the patient.
Activator: an activator is an instrument used by many chiropractors to assist with the adjustment in some specialized conditions. Dr. Howard will mainly utilize the activator on infants, elderly people, people with significant osteoporosis, and any other time that she feels the use is necessary.
Physiotherapy: the main physiotherapy that Dr. Howard uses in the office in interferential muscle stimulation. This is used mainly for muscles that are in spasm. This is a short-term, acute-care therapy and is used in that capacity only, it is not intended to be a long-term "feel good" therapy.
Soft Tissue Work: there is a soft-tissue component to the subluxation complex, and Dr. Howard feels that working with the soft tissues as well as the bones will help foster healing and wellness faster. Dr. Howard may use a mechanical massager at times for generalized use, however she mainly will alleviate trigger point areas that are causing muscle tension.