Based on the fact that the body contains only one nervous system which supplies all other systems and structure of the body the Chiropractic Manipulative Reflex Technique was developed. Having originally been termed the “bloodless surgery” this name can be quite misleading and create a sense of fear surround the method. Chiropractor Dr. DeJarnette is responsible for bringing the technique into modern chiropractic methods as he taught and modified the technique from the 1940s to the 1960s.
This technique is focused on the relationship between the somatic (voluntary) and autonomic (involuntary) nervous systems. Interestingly this technique is often used to identify organs or organ systems that are not working properly. Issues with specific vertebrae will tell the practitioner what organ may be having issues. This technique is often a resort after a patient has had no luck in obtaining relief their symptoms through traditional medicine.
During an adjustment the patient undergoing CMRT should expect to have the practitioner locate the affected vertebrae through sensitivities in reflex arcs. If the reflex arc indicates an issue it is evaluated through fiber muscle palpitation to determine if it has visceral connections. If the vertebrae does not respond to adjustment then the issue may be due to viscerosomatic or somatovisceral causes. The practitioner will then utilize soft tissue manipulation, reflex balancing techniques, and myofacial release techniques. Once found the adjustment may take as little as fifteen minutes.
Many pediatric patients have experienced relief from symptoms associated with Asperger’s, processing issues, constipation, migraines, autism, aphasia, selective mutism, and many more behavioral, physical, and metal concerns. At times this method of treatment is the parent and caregiver’s last effort before more invasive procedures are sought.
To practice this technique proper training must be obtained by a licensed chiropractic professional. This training can be done through an Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT) certification program. This training is conducted at SOT seminars as well as in some post-graduate departments as a 24 course generally taught over the course of two weekends. Two certification levels exist: Certified SOT Practitioner (CSP) and Certified SOT Cranial Practitioner (CSCP). Whatever the certification it is important that CMRT not be practiced unless proper trained for the safety of the patient and consistency of the practice.