HISTORY
Dr.
Epstein's system of Network Spinal Analysis integrates points of agreement from
diverse chiropractic approaches. The system diverges in its belief that there
are two types of subluxations, structural (arising from physical stresses) and
facilitated (arising from emotional stresses). The practitioner addresses them
in different ways.
A
1995 survey of 3,000 patients of Network Spinal Analysis conducted by the
University of California at Irvine suggests that Network Spinal Analysis is
associated with improvements in self-reported health, an important indicator
of actual health.
Postgraduate
training in Network Spinal Analysis was first offered in the US in 1995.
Certification is now granted in the three levels of care that the system
provides.
CONSULTING
A PRACTITIONER
The
practitioner uses a specialized system of evaluating the spine that focuses on
the way individual vertebrae interact. She makes adjustments to subluxations,
following a unique sequence, or "network." The sequence involves 12
different techniques, which are applied with careful timing.
Facilitated
subluxations are generally addressed with the Logan Basic Technique - light
steady pressure applied to the spine, mainly in the upper cervical area.
Structural subluxations may be addressed with the Toggle-Recoil Technique - a
quick thrust with the heel of the hand. The types of adjustments used change
according to improvements in spinal function.
At
your first consultation the practitioner will take a history of previous
chiropractic care and an inventory of physical and mental stresses. She will
examine your muscle tone, leg length, and any tension in the ankles and heels,
and assess spinal function in respect to breathing. X rays may be taken, but
are not standard. Level 1 care then begins.
The
goal of Level 1 care, which is usually given three times a week for 1-2 months,
is to return as much function to the spine as possible and to increase body
awareness. At Level 2, visits twice a week for 2-4 months ease not only the
spine, but the whole body. Self-help begins at Level 2, when you have developed
sufficient body awareness to
be
able to focus on specific sites and release any tension.
By
this point, the spine is self-correcting. General function and wellbeing have
improved. Some people continue to Level 3, also called Wellness Care.
Self-directed, it is determined by each person's needs and goals. Sessions may
take place once a week; a quality-of-life inventory is made periodically.
MEDICAL OPINION
Many
doctors do not distinguish between the different chiropractic approaches. The
effectiveness of the more vigorous manipulations would seem more understandable
to a doctor than the gentle maneuvers of Network Chiropractic, which is
currently the subject of research studies.
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Compatibility
