Drop Piece Technique
What Is a Drop Piece Table?
A drop piece table is a specialised chiropractic table that includes sections designed to move slightly when a controlled input is applied.
These sections are often referred to as “drop pieces” and may be positioned under different areas of the body, depending on what is being assessed.
When activated, the section lowers a small distance in conjunction with the practitioner’s input.
How Is It Used?
The drop piece table may be used as part of a chiropractic session to provide a specific mechanical input to a joint or region of the body.
It is commonly used in areas such as:
- Spine
- Pelvis
- Hips
A smaller, portable drop piece may also be used for:
- Knees
- Ankles
- Elbows
- Wrists
The selection of this approach depends on what is considered appropriate following an individual assessment. If you would like to explore other techniques and modalities that may be considered as part of care, you can view our Techniques and Modalities page.
Explore Whether This Approach May Be Suitable for You
An assessment provides an opportunity to explore how your body is moving and whether approaches such as drop piece may be considered as part of your care.
The Table Setup at Life Balance Adjustments
The chiropractic table used at Life Balance Adjustments includes multiple drop piece segments that can be positioned under different areas of the body.
These segments may be used in regions such as:
- Pelvis
- Lower back
- Mid back
- Upper back
Each section can be activated independently, allowing different areas to be assessed and approached based on the individual presentation.
In addition to the main table, a smaller portable drop piece may also be used.
This may be applied to areas such as:
- Knees
- Ankles
- Elbows
- Wrists
The choice of whether to use the main table or a portable drop piece depends on what is considered appropriate during the assessment.
How It Differs From Other Approaches
Unlike some techniques that involve sustained manual pressure, the drop piece table allows movement to occur through the table itself.
This means the practitioner’s input is combined with the movement of the table section, rather than relying on force alone.
Because of this, some people may experience the sensation as lighter or more comfortable compared to approaches that involve more direct pressure.
A Neutral and Supported Position
The drop piece table can often be used while the body remains in a supported and relatively neutral position.
This may reduce the need for more involved positioning or larger movements during care.
For some people, this can feel like a more controlled and comfortable approach.
For a broader understanding of how care is approached at Life Balance Adjustments, including how different techniques may be selected as part of an individualised process, you can explore Our Approach page. You can also learn more about how chiropractic care may be considered as part of this process on our Chiropractic Care page..
Individualised Approach to Care
At Life Balance Adjustments, the use of any technique is based on individual assessment.
The drop piece table is one of several approaches that may be considered, depending on:
- Movement patterns
- Areas of tension or restriction
- Joint function
- Overall presentation
Not every technique is used for every person, and what is selected may vary from visit to visit.
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.
Looking for a More Individualised Approach?
Care begins with understanding how your body is functioning as a whole, so that an approach can be tailored to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drop Piece Adjustments
Is the drop piece table used for all adjustments?
No. The use of a drop piece table depends on the individual assessment.
Different techniques may be considered depending on factors such as movement patterns, areas of tension, joint function and overall presentation.
Does the drop piece table make a noise?
Yes. The drop section of the table typically produces a noticeable “clunk” sound when it activates.
This sound is part of the table’s mechanical design and reflects the movement of the drop section, rather than the amount of force being applied.
Can drop piece be used on smaller joints?
Yes, in some cases a smaller portable drop piece may be used for joints such as the knees, ankles, elbows or wrists.
As with all approaches, this depends on what is considered appropriate for the individual and the area being treated.
How does the drop piece table differ from manual adjustments?
The drop piece table combines the practitioner’s input with the movement of the table itself.
Rather than relying on sustained manual pressure alone, the table assists with the movement.
It can often be used while the body remains in a more neutral and supported position, without requiring larger movements or more involved positioning.
For some people, this may feel like a lighter or more controlled approach.
What determines whether this approach is used?
The choice of technique is guided by an individual assessment.
This may include consideration of:
Based on this, different approaches may be selected depending on what is considered suitable at the time.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Every person’s experience is different. An initial consultation provides an opportunity to explore what may be appropriate for you.