Chiropractic is Greek for “the art done by hand”. Together with the chiropractic manipulation, Dr Köhne uses various other techniques to compliment his treatment program. Some of the techniques you may experience include any of the following depending on your condition:
Dry Needling
Dry Needling is a cost-effective and efficient technique used to treat myofascial pain and dysfunction. While it shares similarities with acupuncture, the rationale and application of dry needling differ in treatment focus.
Drs. Travell and Simons defined a myofascial trigger point as a “hyperirritable spot in a skeletal muscle,” which becomes painful when compressed and may cause referred pain, tenderness, motor dysfunction, or autonomic phenomena. These trigger points, consisting of multiple contraction knots, are key contributors to the pain cycle and are often found in both acute and chronic pain conditions.
Accurate dry needling of a myofascial trigger point can elicit a local twitch response, an involuntary spinal cord reflex that causes muscle fibers in the taut band to contract. This twitch response confirms the correct placement of the needle in the trigger point and significantly improves treatment outcomes by disrupting the pain cycle and promoting healing.
Kinesio Taping Method
Kinesio tape gently lifts the skin, allowing for improved blood and lymph flow beneath the treated area, which helps reduce swelling and pain. Its unique design mimics the thickness and weight of human skin, and unlike conventional athletic tape, it stretches, enabling movement without restricting muscles.
This heat-activated, durable tape can be worn for 3-4 days and is made from high-grade cotton, ensuring breathability and being latex-free for those with sensitive skin. By supporting muscle function, Kinesio tape enhances muscle contraction in weak muscles, reduces fatigue, and prevents overexertion, cramping, and contraction, all while increasing range of motion. Additionally, it improves circulation and helps dissipate heat from injured tissues, making it a valuable addition to many treatment protocols.
Cross-Friction Therapy
Cross friction therapy is a targeted technique to treat soft tissue injuries and conditions such as tendinitis, ligament sprains, and muscle strains. This deep tissue massage method involves applying controlled, repetitive friction across the grain of the muscle, tendon, or ligament fibers to break down adhesions and scar tissue, promote tissue repair, and increase circulation to the affected area. By stimulating the body’s natural healing response, cross friction therapy can reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance recovery. Chiropractors frequently incorporate this therapy into treatment plans to complement other modalities like spinal adjustments or dry needling, offering a holistic approach to musculoskeletal rehabilitation.
Hot or Cold Therapy
- When using a cold pack, follow these guidelines:
- Apply the cold pack for 20 minutes, then remove it and allow the area to return to its normal temperature before reapplying.
- Repeat this process 3-4 times per day (or as directed by a healthcare professional).
- Important: Never apply the ice pack directly to the skin. Always wrap it in a pillowcase or towel before use to prevent skin damage.