From Shockwave Therapy to Flexion-Distraction: How Chiropractic Techniques Relieve Pain Without Surgery or Medication

Photo of a client undergoing shockwave therapy. If you’re looking for pain relief that doesn’t require medication or surgery, chiropractic care in Jupiter, FL, can help you feel like yourself again in a natural, effective way.

If you’re living with back, neck, shoulder, knee, or hip pain, you’ve likely been told your options include painkillers, injections, or even surgery. But what if there was a different path? One that focused on movement, healing, and long-term results instead of covering up the symptoms?

At Jupiter Spine and Performance, we take a modern, evidence-based approach to chiropractic care. That means combining hands-on techniques with more advanced tools to address pain at its source, all without medications, and without long-term imaging or unnecessary procedures.

Let’s break down some of the most effective chiropractic techniques I use and how they can help you recover, manage chronic pain, and help you feel your best… naturally.

Chiropractic Care Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All… And That’s a Good Thing!

Many people think of chiropractic care as just “cracking backs,” but that couldn’t be further from what we do at Jupiter Spine and Performance. Your treatment is based on your unique body, lifestyle, and goals. Whether that’s lifting pain-free, walking without sciatica, or playing your sport without throwing out your back, we will find the most efficient treatment plan and course of action designed for you.

Here’s a look at some of the techniques I use in my practice:

Shockwave Therapy: Healing at the Cellular Level

Shockwave therapy is a safe, and scientifically backed treatment that uses high-energy acoustic sound waves to stimulate healing in injured or “damaged” tissue, especially in stubborn, chronic cases like:

  • Rotator cuff pain
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Gluteal tendinopathy
  • IT band irritation
  • Chronic muscle tightness or scar tissue

The goal of this particular chiropractic therapy is to increase circulation, stimulate collagen production, break up adhesions within the muscle, and trigger your body’s natural healing response, all without drugs, downtime, or invasive procedures. Many patients feel relief in just a few sessions, and it’s one of the most popular therapies I offer for athletes and active adults.

A typical shockwave therapy treatment lasts about 4-7 minutes depending on the area and the condition being treated. Once we begin the treatment, a series of high-energy sound waves are delivered through the tissue, this can feel like a deep tapping, buzzing, or mild discomfort depending on intensity.

Flexion-Distraction Technique: Relief for Disc Pain, Sciatica & More

If you’ve been diagnosed with a disc bulge, disc herniation, or spinal stenosis, this gentle, non-invasive chiropractic technique may be exactly what your body needs.

Flexion-distraction involves a specialized table that moves in rhythmic, controlled motions while I guide your spine through a gentle decompression pattern. This helps:

  • Reduce pressure on bulging or herniated discs
  • Create space between vertebrae
  • Relieve pinched nerves that cause leg or arm pain
  • Improve spinal mobility

It’s especially effective for patients with sciatica, low back pain, or numbness/tingling caused by disc issues. It’s a very calm, relaxing treatment, and often paired with ultrasound therapy, soft tissue therapy, or mobility work to help relieve pressure off the discs, nerves, and surrounding structures.

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) a.k.a. Muscle Scraping

If you’ve ever heard the term ‘muscle scraping’ and thought, “Wait… What now?” you’re not alone. Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) might sound technical, but it’s actually a straightforward, highly effective manual therapy technique that can help with pain relief, mobility, and recovery, especially for active individuals.

Photo of Dr. Alyssa Garber performing the Graston technique on a patient. If you’re dealing with pain and discomfort, the Graston technique can help you find relief. Explore this type of chiropractic care in Jupiter, FL.

So, what is it?

IASTM involves using specialized stainless steel tools to gently glide across the skin and tissues beneath it. These tools allow chiropractors and other practitioners to detect and treat areas of muscle tightness, scar tissue, or restricted movement that may not be easily accessible with hands alone.

Think of it like a deep-tissue massage, but more targeted, and often more efficient. The goal is to break up adhesions (tight, sticky areas in the soft tissue), promote better blood flow, and kickstart your body’s natural healing response.

As an experienced Jupiter chiropractor, I often use tools and techniques I am certified and trained in, like Graston Technique, a well-known and research-backed form of IASTM. It’s one of my favorite tools in the toolbox when helping patients with:

  • Tight hamstrings or calves
  • Shoulder impingement or restricted range of motion
  • Hip flexor tightness that’s limiting performance
  • Post-injury stiffness and lingering muscle tightness

Patients often describe the sensation as a mix between a massage and a workout for their muscles, it may feel intense, but in a good way. And results can happen quickly! Many people notice improved range of motion, decreased pain, and a “lighter”, “looser” feeling in their movement even after just one session.

If you’ve been stretching but feel like your muscles are still tight, “stuck,” or holding you back, IASTM and Graston Technique might be the missing piece. It’s especially helpful for people who have hit a plateau in flexibility, deal with recurring soft tissue injuries, or just want to recover faster and move better.

Cupping Therapy

Picture of Dr. Alyssa Garber performing cupping therapy. Are you looking for alternative solutions for pain relief? Meet with a chiropractor in Jupiter, FL, to heal your body without surgery or medication.

Cupping creates negative pressure in the tissue, helping to lift and separate tight fascia, improve circulation, and reduce muscle tension. It’s especially helpful when combined with movement and mobility work, and many of my chiropractic patients love it for shoulder, trap, and mid-back tension. Cupping therapy is quite beneficial as it decreases inflammation and promotes detoxification.

Cupping therapy involves placing specialized cups on the skin to create suction. The cups stay on for about 5–15 minutes, depending on the treatment. It feels like a slight pulling of pressure. Most people find it relaxing. You may have circular red or purple marks that last a few days (this is totally normal- it’s just blood flow and capillary release)

Spinal Adjustments (Yes, the “Cracking” and “Popping”)

I am not the typical or “average” chiropractor. While traditional adjustments are still a very powerful tool, I always make sure they’re used intentionally, and not just because “that’s what chiropractors do.”

Chiropractic adjustments help:

  • Improve joint mobility
  • Reduce pain from restricted movement
  • Stimulate the nervous system to relax tight muscles
  • Encourage proper posture and biomechanics

Depending on your comfort level and clinical needs, I offer both manual and low-force chriropractic adjusting techniques.

Mobility-Based Rehab & Corrective Exercise

Motion is lotion! Long-term change comes from teaching your body how to move well again. In some cases, I guide each patient through individualized rehab plans that may include:

  • Core stabilization
  • Hip and shoulder mobility drills
  • Balance and proprioception work
  • Functional movement retraining
Photo of Dr. Alyssa Garber adjusting a patient. Need access to holistic wellness after business hours? Concierge chiropractic care in Jupiter, FL, ensures you have access to support and wellness when you need it.

At Jupiter Spine and Performance, I place a strong emphasis on mobility-based rehab and corrective exercise because it’s the key to long-term, sustainable results. Pain is often just the symptom.. poor movement patterns, imbalances, and weakness are usually the cause. That’s where this part of care comes in.

Ever felt like you’re caught in a cycle of relief → flare-up → relief again? Corrective exercise breaks that loop. By training your body to move more efficiently, with better mobility, alignment, and muscle recruitment, you significantly lower your risk of future injuries or flare-ups.

This is especially important for athletes, weekend warriors, or active parents who are constantly pushing their bodies.

What About Disc Herniations & Disc Bulges? Can Chiropractic Help?

Absolutely! But not in the way most people think.

At Jupiter Spine and Performance, I treat many patients with disc issues who want to avoid injections or surgery. Whether you’re experiencing:

  • Radiating leg pain (sciatica)
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
  • Low back pain that gets worse with sitting or bending

…the goal is to decrease inflammation, decompress the spine, and restore motion in a safe, controlled way.

This often involves a combination of:

  • Flexion-distraction therapy
  • Targeted mobility work
  • Soft tissue therapy to offload irritated structures
  • Lifestyle coaching to support healing (sleep, hydration, movement habits)

With consistency, most people see significant improvement, often avoiding the need for medications, excessive imaging, or surgical consultations altogether.

Why Choose Jupiter Spine and Performance?

If you’ve been brushed off, over-prescribed, or told to “just rest,” you’re not alone, and you deserve better!
At my office, you’ll experience:

  • One-on-one care, never rushed and never stuck in crowded waiting rooms
  • Private sessions in a quiet, clean environment
  • An individualized and collaborative plan built around your life and your goals. (There’s nothing “cookie cutter” about our treatment plans!)
  • The option for concierge chiropractic care (evening, weekend, or after-hours visits for qualifying patients)

I’m here to help you move, live, and feel better! All without relying on quick fixes or temporary relief.

Experience the Difference Firsthand!

Whether you’re dealing with persistent back pain, a nagging shoulder issue, or just want to move with more confidence, there’s a place for you at Jupiter Spine and Performance. We offer a safe space for all!

Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back and build a chiropractic plan to get you back to doing what you love! All without surgery, without medications, and without the runaround.

Stay active. Stay strong. Stay aligned,
Dr. Alyssa Garber, DC
Jupiter Spine and Performance

Get Medication-Free Pain Relief With Chiropractic Care in Jupiter, FL

If you’re searching for effective, non-invasive pain relief, Jupiter chiropractic care may be exactly what you need. Techniques like shockwave therapy and flexion-distraction are powerful tools that target the root causes of pain—without surgery, injections, or long-term medication use. These methods help restore mobility, reduce inflammation, and promote natural healing from within.

At my Jupiter, FL, chiropractic practice, I provide personalized and after-hours care to make it easier for you to get the support you need, on your schedule. Whether you’re recovering from a musculoskeletal injury or looking to manage chronic discomfort, I’m here to help you feel better with a plan tailored to your unique goals and lifestyle.

Ready to experience the benefits of drug-free pain relief?

  1. Explore evidence-based chiropractic techniques when you book your first appointment
  2. Meet with a Jupiter chiropractor who specializes in non-invasive pain solutions
  3. Learn how methods like shockwave therapy and flexion-distraction can support long-term wellness

Reach out today to take the first step toward feeling stronger, looser, and more in control of your health.

Other Services Jupiter Spine & Performance Offers in Florida

Living with chronic pain—whether from headaches, joint issues, or soft tissue strain—can take a serious toll on your daily life. Chiropractic care offers a powerful, non-invasive approach to reducing pain and improving function, helping you regain control of your health without relying on surgery or medication.

At my chiropractic office in Jupiter, FL, I offer flexible and after-hours appointment options to make care accessible when you need it most. In addition to spinal adjustments, I provide an array of supportive therapies designed to enhance recovery and comfort. These include shockwave therapy to stimulate tissue repair, flexion-distraction for spinal decompression, therapeutic ultrasound, cupping therapy, and soft tissue work such as the Graston Technique and Active Release Technique (ART). For targeted pain relief and muscle support, I also incorporate Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) into personalized treatment plans.

To explore how these evidence-based chiropractic techniques can help you move and feel better, browse my blog and FAQ section. When you’re ready to contact me and begin your healing journey, I’m here to support you every step of the way.

About the Author

Dr. Alyssa Garber specializes in personalized chiropractic care for individuals experiencing pain-related conditions such as migraines, headaches, and musculoskeletal discomfort. As a lifelong resident of Jupiter and a former competitive athlete, she knows firsthand how disruptive chronic pain can be, and how transformative the right chiropractic approach can feel. Dr. Alyssa earned her Doctorate of Chiropractic from Keiser University and is certified in advanced soft tissue techniques, including the Graston Technique and Active Release Technique (ART). These tools allow her to target the root causes of pain, enhance mobility, and promote long-term spine and joint health. Her background in fitness, combined with a holistic philosophy, enables her to deliver gentle, effective chiropractic solutions that restore function and improve quality of life for every patient she serves.