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ABOUT THIS TREATMENT
The Gentlest Way to Adjust
The Activator Technique uses a small, handheld spring-loaded device to deliver a gentle but precise impulse to spinal and extremity joints. It's one of the most widely researched chiropractic techniques in the world, trusted by practitioners for its specificity and comfort.
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At Central Health Chiropractic in Des Moines, Dr. Jake Boyle uses the Activator when a patient needs a low-force approach — whether due to age, sensitivity, anxiety about cracking sounds, or a condition like osteoporosis or post-surgical care.
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Don't let the gentleness fool you — the Activator is fast enough (about 1/100th of a second) to correct joint dysfunction before your muscles can reflexively tighten, making it highly effective and comfortable.
THE PROCESS
How It Works
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Leg Length Analysis
Dr. Boyle assesses your leg lengths and spinal alignment to detect areas of dysfunction and nerve interference.
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Instrument Adjustment
​A spring-loaded Activator instrument delivers a quick, targeted impulse to the affected joint — no twisting required.
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Immediate Re-Check
After each thrust, Dr. Boyle re-evaluates alignment to confirm correction before moving to the next level.
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Gentle Progress
Sessions are cumulative — each visit further restores spinal balance and nervous system function.
CONDITIONS TREATED
We Can Help With
Chronic back pain
Headaches
Post-surgical patients
Elderly patients with fragile bones
Fibromyalgia
Neck pain
Arthritis
Pediatric patients
Anxiety around traditional adjustments
TMJ dysfunction
What You'll Experience
Extremely Gentle
No twisting, cracking, or high-force movements — ideal for sensitive or elderly patients.
Highly Specific
Instrument precision allows correction of individual spinal segments with pinpoint accuracy.
Fast Treatment Time
Sessions are efficient — the adjustment impulse is delivered faster than your muscles can resist.
Neurologically Effective
The high-speed, low-force impulse activates joint mechanoreceptors to reset proper nerve signaling.
