11/05/2025
"Last week, in my discussion about our blind spots when driving, I mentioned Activator. Interestingly, I’ve had 2 patients curious about some of the specifics on the Activator adjusting tool. So, I thought to myself, “Self, why don’t we discuss some of the specifics about the Activator.” And I thought that sounded like a pretty good idea this week.
The Activator tool was developed and patented in 1976. It aims to provide as precise, high velocity, low force adjustment. The force used by the activator ranges from 11lbs to 28lbs (or 50 to 125 Newtons). The velocity of the activator thrust is 0.003 seconds. The velocity is so fast that it bypasses the body’s stretch response, so the body can’t guard against the adjustment as easily.
Contrast that with a manual adjustment. The force from a manual adjustment varies, but on average is 264 Newtons (twice as much force). The velocity is even more of a difference .145 seconds. That’s a 40x difference. When we talk about force, the equation F=MA or the amount of Force is equal to the mass times the acceleration. If the acceleration is 40 times faster, and the force is half as much, the mass behind the manual adjustment has to be much more than the activator.
This difference makes the Activator the perfect technique for people with arthritis, osteoporosis; it’s great for toddlers and those with anxiety about getting adjusted in certain areas. It also works wonderfully on wrists, elbows, knees, feet, ankles, collarbones and my favorite: ribs. If you’re curious about studies that have been done, activator.com has a great library.
If you know someone who should really be seen by a chiropractor, but is apprehensive for any number of reasons, remind them that many of us use the activator that is much more gentle and still incredibly effective." - Dr. Erick Thompson
