Different Types of Adjusted Thrusts - Part A

17 hours ago
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Blog 3: Different Types of Adjusted Thrusts

In my opinion, the adjustive thrust does not exist in isolation. It is the final moment in a sequence of events — the release of internal energy, stored in posture and breath, and expelled in a focused direction. In my view, it begins at the diaphragm — similar to a cough, a sneeze, or a spit — and exits through the hands, which are already positioned and primed in tension.

It is the most used “thrust technique” that I use daily; however, in specific circumstances, I will use these other two types of manual treatment.

Recoil Thrust / Toggle Recoil

This thrust is especially useful for:

• Elderly patients

• Post-surgical recovery

• Fragile joints or limited tolerance

Execution:

• Elbows are relaxed and aligned in the same plane

• Thrust delivered at maximum exhalation

• The force is generated through pectoralis contraction and core bracing, not arm swing

• The episternal notch should be directly above the contact

• Elbows are at right angles to the line of drive

Once the thrust is delivered, the hands must recoil away from the patient’s spine. This style of adjusting is often performed on a toggle board or drop table and is neurologically precise while being physically gentle.

Body Drop Thrust (Carver Technique)

This method, from Carver Chiropractic Technique, is powerful and effective when:

• Adjusting large or muscular patients

• Working with a significant weight mismatch between the patient and practitioner

Execution:

• The trunk is centred directly over the contact

• Arms are straight and positioned for vector alignment

• The torso is lifted vertically, then dropped between the arms, creating a focused thrust

• The adjustment travels through a rigid, aligned chain from trunk to arms

Use caution in osteoporotic or frail patients — this is a powerful technique.

Aidan - Enchiridion Chiropractic Training