Flexion distraction is a non invasive treatment commonly used by our Chiropractors in both Seattle and Portland.  It is largely used as a part of the 'Cox Technique'  with a goal of creating spinal decompression in the lumbar spine.  During each session, the patient lies on their stomach while the table gently lowers their legs to create a repeated, stretching motion in the patient's lower back.  The goals of this therapy are to decrease intradiscal pressure, promote increased circulation and healing, relax muscle tension, and promote increased range of motion.  Sessions typically last 5-15 minutes.  The Chiropractic Doctors at Accident and Injury Care utilize electric flexion distraction tables manufactured by Eurotech and Tradeflex.  In addition to flexion distraction these tables are also incorporate 'drop' sections which are commonly used with the 'Thompson Technique' to enhance adjustments. 

 Decompression is a nonsurgical form of traction commonly used to treat disc related neck pain and low back pain as well as sciatica in both our Seattle and Portland Chiropractic offices.  This treatment works by gently stretching the spine to take pressure off of the spinal discs.  Decompression can help reduce disc herniations or bulges which in turn can reduce nerve impingement and related symptoms such as leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.  Sessions typically last for 10-15 minutes.  The doctors at Accident and Injury Care utilize Triton MP-1 decompression units to perform non-surgical lumbar decompression.  Treatment plans are based on the severity of a patient's symptoms and response in all cases.

Treatment of spinal injuries by the Doctors of Accident and Injury Care is done via Chiropractic manipulation and joint mobilization.  Each treatment is tailored to the patient's injuries by closely tracking the location and severity of their injuries as they recover.  Chiropractic Adjusting is performed to heal injuries around the spine and  restore motion.  Additionally, the doctors utilize an adjusting tool similar to that used with the 'Activator Technique'.  In all, the type of chiropractic adjusting performed in Accident and Injury Care is characterized as a 'Diversified Technique' related to it's combination of many of the various techniques used as a chiropractor.

Massage Therapy is the manual manipulation of soft tissue (muscle, connective tissue, tendons and ligaments).  Rehabilitative massage, such as deep tissue or medical massage has been proven to relax tight and tense muscles and decrease pain from injuries.  There are few risks involved with massage therapy when provided by a licensed professional.  A typical session of massage therapy lasts for 55 minutes.  Ice and heat therapy often compliment massage treatment to allow additional circulatory changes and pain relief.  

As a patient's injury status changes, their treatment also transitions from injury focused care to spinal stabilization and strengthening exercises.  Rehabilitation exercises often include postural correction, muscular strengthening, and movement pattern improvement to assist in healing and also help a patient maintain good health after completion of their treatment.  Commonly, the focus of treatment towards the end of care will be on upper back strengthening, pelvic stabilization, and hip hinging.

Exercises are taught and performed in office and in most cases the patient can be given a specific handout with their exercise(s) and recommendations so they can continue to work at home and progress their healing.