Activator Technique

The Activator is a hand-held device categorized as a mechanical force manual assisted (MFMA) instrument which is generally regarded as a softer type of chiropractic technique.

The activator is a small handheld spring-loaded instrument which delivers a small impulse to the spine. It was found to give off no more than 0.3 J of kinetic energy in a 3-millisecond pulse. The aim is to produce enough force to move the vertebrae but not enough to cause injury. It is adjustable which allows us to apply different settings for a range of problems.

Burswood Health was the first chiropractic clinic to use the Activator in 1984. About 70% of Australian chiropractors now use an Activator and it is the 2nd most widely used chiropractic technique in the world. The Activator Technique was registered with the U.S. Patent Office in 1978 and has been a registered medical device with the US Food and Drug Administration.

The Activator Technique and Methods and Dr Arlan Fuhr have made an outstanding contribution to chiropractic research. There are currently 18 published trials of effectiveness in the treatment of patients with acute and chronic spinal pain.

The beauty of the Activator Technique is that we can adjust the force to a level that is so light a baby will sleep through the treatment. It is perfect for patients with bone fragility or are fearful of the perceived forcefulness of manual manipulation. Babies, young children and senior citizens love the Activator. In fact, most children will laugh their way through an Activator treatment.

The Activator Technique is a gentle, ‘light force’ chiropractic adjusting device which is preferred by many of our patients. We often mix Activator adjusting with the more classical ‘diversified adjusting’ and soft tissue techniques to obtain maximal results in the treatment of neck, back and shoulder pain.

At Burswood Health, our first goal is to arrive at a clear diagnosis regarding the nature of your problem. We then discuss treatment options and work out a treatment plan best suited to your individual case. Be sure to ask us for a demonstration on how the Activator works and how it may be of help to you.