Unlocking Healing with the Drop Table: How the Thompson Technique Enhances Chiropractic Care

How the Drop Table Works: Precision Through Physics
The Thompson Technique uses a segmented adjusting table with spring-loaded sections (called “drop pieces”) that are tensioned based on the patient's size and condition. During an adjustment, the chiropractor applies a quick thrust, and the table section drops slightly—allowing gravity and momentum to assist the adjustment rather than brute force.

This drop mechanism minimizes resistance and protects both the practitioner and patient from unnecessary strain, making it ideal for sensitive populations such as:

• Children
• Elderly individuals with osteoporosis
• Pregnant women
• Patients in acute pain

Key Clinical Applications of the Thompson Technique: Where It Shines
The Thompson Technique is more than just a low-force alternative—it’s a precision tool that excels in several core areas of chiropractic care:

1. Pelvic Misalignments and Sacroiliac Dysfunction

Pelvic instability is one of the most common root causes of spinal imbalance. The Thompson Technique allows chiropractors to correct anterior or posterior rotations, sacral subluxations, and sacroiliac joint fixations with highly specific drop table adjustments.

This is especially valuable for patients experiencing low back pain, sciatica, or leg length discrepancies stemming from pelvic imbalances.

2. Functional Leg Length Discrepancy Analysis

A cornerstone of the technique is its use of leg length checks to detect functional imbalances. Chiropractors use a prone leg check (in both extended and flexed positions) to identify compensations caused by subluxations, particularly in the pelvis and lumbar spine.

A 2010 review by Cooperstein and Young supports the reliability of leg length inequality (LLI) analysis as a clinical indicator when used appropriately alongside other findings.
(Cooperstein & Young, 2010)

3. Lumbar and Lumbosacral Adjustments

The drop pieces allow for specific corrections to the lumbar and lumbosacral joints with less discomfort and more accuracy—perfect for patients with disc issues, facet joint irritation, or postural collapse.

The technique’s speed and precision reduce resistance from tight musculature, making it highly effective for those in acute pain.

4. Cervical Spine Adjustments with Drop Headpiece

For patients who need a gentler cervical correction—such as those with instability, arthritis, or fear of traditional neck adjustments—the Thompson cervical drop headpiece provides a safe and effective alternative.

This method minimizes manual force while still achieving proper alignment and neurological balance.

5. Postural and Neurological Rebalancing

Because Thompson’s system evaluates both structural and neurological patterns, it’s often used to support nervous system regulation and whole-body posture improvement. Patients report feeling more centered, balanced, and energized after adjustments.

Improvements in proprioception and balance have been observed in research using drop techniques to address postural asymmetry.

What the Research Says: Evidence Behind the Drop Table

• A 2005 pilot study published in Journal of Chiropractic Medicine demonstrated that Thompson Terminal Point Technique adjustments led to significant reductions in low back pain and leg length discrepancy, supporting its clinical efficacy. (Holt et al., 2005)
• A 2018 study in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science concluded that drop table adjustments improved pelvic alignment and balance, reinforcing its value in postural correction and rehabilitation. (Kong et al., 2018)
• Another clinical trial in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders in 2019 found that chiropractic techniques including drop methods contributed to improvements in functional disability and range of motion in patients with chronic mechanical low back pain. (Almeida et al., 2019)

Why Patients Love It: Benefits at a Glance
✅ Low-force and comfortable
✅ High precision with measurable outcomes
✅ Safe for a wide range of patients (pediatric to geriatric)
✅ Enhances posture, pain relief, and nervous system balance
✅ Integrates well with other techniques like Diversified, SOT, and Activator

Is the Thompson Technique Right for You?
At Awesome Family Chiropractic, we believe in matching the right technique to the right person. That’s why we’re trained in multiple techniques—including Thompson Drop Table—to ensure the safest, most effective adjustment for your unique body.

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, navigating pregnancy, or just want your body functioning at its best, our gentle drop table approach may be just what you need.

‍

‍

This blog is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Outcomes and experiences discussed may vary. For immediate medical concerns, contact your physician.