Thompson Chiropractic Technique

At the Liebell Clinic, we proudly provide spinal care using the Thompson chiropractic technique—an extraordinary application of physics and mechanical engineering. This superb spinal treatment system is the perfect complement to our cornerstone method, Atlas Orthogonal.

A Comprehensive Approach to Spinal Health

Atlas Orthogonal focuses on the uppermost part of the spine—the atlas vertebra (C1)—which plays a vital role in whole-body health. The Thompson technique is used to address the rest of the spine, utilizing precise leverage and controlled motion to restore spinal function safely.  

Developed in the 1950s by Dr. J. Clay Thompson, this technique incorporates a specialized treatment table based on physics and biomechanics. Rather than relying solely on manual treatment force, it uses mechanical advantage to unlock restricted spinal joints. Restoring movement in these joints relieves nerve pressure and inflammation, promoting overall health and well-being.

The Importance of Spinal Health

When spinal joints lose proper motion—separate and distinct from muscle tightness—it can cause inflammation and nerve interference. Many mistakenly believe chiropractic care is about straightening the spine or realigning bones. In reality, it is about restoring spinal joint movement, which in turn reduces nerve pressure, and allows the body to heal. 

This understanding dates back over 2,000 years. Hippocrates (460 BC–375 BC), the Father of Modern Medicine, emphasized spinal health, stating, "Get knowledge of the spine, for this is the requisite for many diseases." 

His forward-thinking approach shifted medicine away from superstition, focusing on lifestyle, diet, and environment as key health factors. Modern chiropractic research continues to validate the insights of Hippocrates and D.D. Palmer, the founder of chiropractic care (1895, Iowa). Palmer’s discoveries and later advancements by his son, Dr. B.J. Palmer, were often dismissed by mainstream medicine, as they didn’t align with the pharmaceutical model of healthcare. However, this hasn’t stopped patients from experiencing the undeniable benefits of chiropractic care.

By improving spinal motion, chiropractic adjustments optimize nervous system function, which influences digestion, immunity, and cardiovascular health. Studies show that spinal nerves directly impact these vital systems, reinforcing the wisdom of Hippocrates from centuries ago.

Mechanical Engineering to the Rescue

The Thompson technique’s core innovation is its drop-table mechanism, a remarkable use of mechanical engineering principles. Unlike traditional manual adjustments that require greater manual force, the Thompson Drop Table provides controlled motion and precise treatment. 

Using gravity and mechanical leverage, this technique allows for gentle but highly effective spinal correction. When spinal treatment (chiropractic adjustment) is performed, the corresponding section of the table drops slightly, facilitating smooth and comfortable treatment. This ensures each spinal segment is adjusted with pinpoint accuracy, unlocking restricted joints and restoring natural movement. The Thompson technique allows doctors to free up stuck joints with incredible precision, reducing nerve pressure and alleviating pain. This natural, physics-driven method is a safe and effective way to address spinal health concerns.

A Synergy of Advanced Techniques

Combining the Thompson and Atlas Orthogonal techniques results in a powerful and comprehensive approach to chiropractic care. Atlas Orthogonal employs sound wave technology for precise upper cervical adjustments, while the Thompson technique applies mechanical engineering principles to treat the rest of the spine. Together, they create a physics-driven system for full-spine treatment with unmatched precision.

Despite its effectiveness, the Thompson technique is not as widely used as it should be—but at the Liebell Clinic, we ensure it is an integral part of our care. By integrating it with Atlas Orthogonal, we provide one of the most advanced, biomechanically sound treatments available today.

A Smarter Way to Heal

Chiropractic care is built on the understanding that optimal spinal movement is essential to overall health. 

By effectively combining the Thompson and Atlas Orthogonal techniques, we offer a cutting-edge approach to spinal healthcare, using physics and engineering rather than relying on chemical interventions. 

This approach empowers the body to heal naturally, providing long-term relief and improving quality of life. With this advanced synergy of physics-based healthcare, the Liebell Clinic continues to deliver innovative, safe, and highly effective solutions for spinal health and overall well-being.