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Doctor of Chiropractic students practicing technique at Logan University

Overview

Clinical techniques you'll learn as a chiropractic student include Active Release Technique, Gonstead, Applied Kinesiology, and Sacro Occipital Technic. You'll get a sense of the hands-on skills you'll practice and build toward your future clinical work. It shows the breadth of care approaches covered in your training.

You will learn to provide exceptional clinical care through a path you design.

Start with Logan Basic, a foundational technique perfected right here. Today it remains one of four core pillars in our Doctor of Chiropractic program. Complement your core training with 11 elective techniques to elevate your practice.

Core Chiropractic Techniques

Logan Basic

Developed by our founder, H.B. Logan, DC, this is one of chiropractic's most effective low-force techniques. You will master body mechanics with a focus on pelvic and spinal distortions. This year-long course covers everything from X-ray analysis to specialized care for pregnancy and pediatric patients.

Diversified Technique

Join the majority of practitioners using this essential method. You will study conceptual models of biomechanics and learn to analyze vertebral subluxation complexes. Hands-on labs focus on manual contacts and perfect patient positioning.

Activator Methods®

Leverage extensive research to deliver flexible care. As a core part of the Logan curriculum, this instrument-based technique allows you to adjust patients of all ages and conditions with precision.

Myofascial Technique

Treat the body’s communication network. This soft tissue therapy improves circulation and relaxes contracted muscles to support whole-person wellness. You will explore various concepts that serve as a foundation for our advanced elective courses.

Chiropractic instructor demonstrates spinal adjustment to students in white lab coats.

Elective Techniques

Build a curriculum that matches your goals. Logan provides expert instruction in 11 elective techniques to broaden your clinical expertise.

Active Release Technique (ART)

Restore optimal function by releasing adhesions that limit movement. Developed by P. Michael Leahy, DC, CCSP, ART addresses muscle and soft-tissue injuries caused by repetitive motion. Practitioners assess each muscle to resolve biomechanical issues and nerve entrapment, making it a favorite for treating athletes and active professionals.

Advanced Activator Method

Take your skills further. This course advances your knowledge of the popular Activator Method and prepares you for Advanced Certification.

Advanced Basic

Refine your mastery of Logan Basic. This course introduces evidence-informed approaches to scoliosis, including chiropractic physiotherapy and specialized exercise. You will explore diet, exercise, and comprehensive diagnostic exams to treat complex systemic conditions effectively.

Advanced Diversified

Build on the Reinert Diversified series. These courses sharpen your diagnostic and treatment skills through real-world case studies presented by practicing Doctors of Chiropractic.

Applied Kinesiology

Use muscle testing to assess physical function. Developed by George Goodheart, DC, this method links specific muscles to organ systems. You will combine chiropractic adjustments with nutritional support and reflex work to create balance across the spine and body.

Flexion-Distraction (COX) Technique

Provide gentle, non-surgical relief for complex spinal conditions. Supported by clinical research, this decompression method uses specialized tables to increase mobility and reduce nerve pressure. It is ideal for patients with disc herniation, stenosis, and degeneration. Visit www.coxtechnic.com for more.

Gonstead System

Get specific, consistent results with this full-spine approach. Developed by Clarence S. Gonstead, DC, the system uses instrumentation, palpation, and X-rays to find precise subluxations. You will use specialized equipment like the Cervical Chair and Pelvic Bench to deliver targeted corrections.

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization

Mobilize scar tissue and adhesions with professional tools. This hands-on course covers soft tissue treatment for the entire body and includes all necessary equipment for your practice.

Sacro Occipital Technic (SOT)

Focus on the relationship between the spine and the cranium. Developed by Bertrand DeJarnette, DC, SOT uses "blocking" to normalize pelvic positions and craniopathy to address cranial bone movement. This versatile system integrates beautifully with other chiropractic techniques and nutritional counseling.

Thompson Technique

Deliver high-speed, low-force adjustments using a segmented drop system. Named for Clay Thompson, DC, this technique carries joints through their range of motion with minimal effort. You will learn to address dysfunctions in both the spine and extremities.

Upper Cervical Specific

Focus on the Atlas Subluxation Complex at the top of the spine. Refined by B.J. Palmer, DC, this toggle recoil technique restores structure to the occiput, atlas, and axis. By following a precise line of correction, you allow the body to find its natural position innately.

Additional Certifications and Courses

Acupuncture

Bridge ancient wisdom with modern chiropractic care. This 100-hour certification covers TCM theory, meridian systems, and needling techniques. You will gain hands-on training to treat pain and functional disorders commonly seen in clinical practice.

Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA)

Identify the root cause of musculoskeletal pain. This movement-based diagnostic system evaluates seven fundamental patterns. You will learn to distinguish between mobility limits and motor control issues to treat the whole person.

Advanced Sport Concussion Management

Protect your athletes with the latest evidence-informed protocols. This course focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of concussions in active populations.

Pediatric Management

Care for Logan’s youngest patients. You will expand your skills in infant spinal evaluation, primitive reflexes, and soft tissue release. The curriculum covers nutrition and complementary methods for comprehensive pediatric wellness.

Dry Needling

Release muscle tension and improve blood flow. By inserting thin needles into myofascial trigger points, you can reduce pain and restore range of motion for your patients.

Other Electives Available

Tailor your education with diverse options:

  • Clinical Care for the Pediatric Athlete
  • Occupational Consulting
  • Telehealth
  • The Healthcare Provider as an Educator
  • Pediatric Nutrition
  • Upper Cervical
  • Minor Surgery
  • Introduction to Sports Medicine
  • Evaluation and Management of Military & Veterans
  • Female Health and Wellness

Leading Edge Technology

For over 80 years, Logan University has set the standard for health care education. We integrate modern technology into every level of our curriculum. These tools ensure you graduate as a highly skilled professional ready to elevate the lives of your patients.

Anatomage Center

Visualize real human anatomy in 3D. Our center features Anatomage Tables—the most advanced simulation systems available—to give you a virtual dissection experience that brings textbooks to life.

Chiropractic Technique Labs

Perfect your adjustments with immediate feedback. Our labs use force plate technology and electronic Activator instruments to ensure your technique is precise before you enter clinical practice.

Radiography Center

Master diagnostic imaging on the same equipment used in professional clinics. You will receive supervised practice time to ensure you are ready for the Montgomery Health Center.

Logan University student in lab coat performs a chiropractic adjustment on a patient.

Next step

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