Blocking Technique

A Gentle, Position-Based Approach to Pelvic Balance

Blocking techniques are a low-force chiropractic approach that may be used as part of Chiropractic care at Life Balance Adjustments.

Rather than applying a direct adjustment, this method involves positioning the body in a way that allows natural forces such as gravity, time and breathing to assist in creating change.

It is often considered when exploring how the pelvis and surrounding structures may be contributing to overall movement patterns.

Why Leg Length May Appear Different

Some people may be told they have a “leg length difference.”

In many cases, this does not necessarily mean the bones themselves are structurally different in length.

Instead, it may reflect how the pelvis is positioned at a given moment.

When the pelvis is influenced by surrounding soft tissues such as muscles and ligaments, it can create an apparent difference in leg length.

From this perspective, the focus is often less about the leg itself, and more about how the pelvis and surrounding tissues are functioning together.

Assessment may include observing how the pelvis is positioned in relation to the spine and how this may change with movement and positioning.

How Blocking Techniques Work

Blocking techniques involve the use of specially designed wedges (often called “blocks”) placed under the pelvis while the person lies comfortably on the table.

These blocks are positioned in a way that gently introduces a subtle, opposite directional force through the pelvis.

This approach focuses on positioning rather than direct pressure.

If you would like to understand how this process begins, including what to expect during your first visit, you can explore our What to Expect page. 

The Role of Time and Gravity

One of the unique aspects of blocking techniques is that they rely on time.

Once the blocks are in place, the body is given space to respond gradually.

Gravity plays a role in guiding the pelvis into a different position, while the surrounding soft tissues adapt to that change.

For some people, this slower approach may feel more comfortable compared to more direct techniques.

Working With the Breath

Breathing may also be incorporated into the process.

As the body moves through natural respiratory cycles, subtle motion occurs throughout the spine and pelvis.

This gentle movement can be used alongside the positioning of the blocks to support changes in how the pelvis and sacral region are interacting.

Rather than being something that is “done” to the body, this approach works with the body’s existing rhythms.

A Gentle Approach to Pelvic and Sacral Areas

Blocking techniques are generally considered a gentle and low-force option.

As with all techniques used at Life Balance Adjustments, whether this approach is included depends on the individual, their presentation and what is considered appropriate on the day.

If you would like to explore other techniques and modalities that may be considered as part of care, you can visit our Techniques & Modalities page.

Part of a Broader Approach

Blocking is one of several techniques that may be considered as part of chiropractic care.

It may be used on its own, or alongside other approaches depending on what is identified during assessment.

Care at Life Balance Adjustments is guided by a broader perspective that considers how different areas of the body interact, along with lifestyle, movement patterns and individual preferences.

To learn more about how this fits into a whole-person approach to care, you can explore Our Approach page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blocking Techniques

What are blocking techniques in chiropractic care?

Blocking techniques involve the use of small padded wedges placed under the pelvis to introduce a gentle change in positioning.

Rather than applying direct force, this approach uses gravity, time and positioning to allow the body to respond in a more gradual way.

Why might my legs appear to be different lengths?

In many cases, an apparent leg length difference may relate to how the pelvis is positioned rather than the bones themselves being structurally different.

This can be influenced by surrounding muscles, ligaments and movement patterns, which may create uneven tension around the pelvis.

Are leg length differences always structural?

Not always.

Some differences may be structural, meaning the bones themselves vary in length. However, many presentations involve a functional or apparent difference related to pelvic positioning.

Assessment helps explore which factors may be contributing in each individual case.

How do blocks help with pelvic positioning?

Blocks are positioned in a way that gently introduces an opposite directional force through the pelvis.

This positioning may allow areas of increased tension to ease, while giving other tissues an opportunity to respond and adapt.

The process is gradual and relies on the body’s natural responses rather than force.

Is blocking a gentle technique?

Blocking techniques are generally considered low-force and position-based.

Because they rely on positioning rather than manual pressure, some people may find this approach more comfortable, particularly if they prefer a more gradual method.

Are blocking techniques suitable for everyone?

Suitability depends on the individual.

An assessment helps determine whether this approach may be appropriate, or whether other techniques may be more suitable based on the person’s presentation and preferences.