The Activator Method® in Woodbury

Healing doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable. At Schmidt Chiropractic Clinic, we offer chiropractic techniques that support spinal health while keeping your comfort front and center. When you partner with us, we’ll meet you where you are with an approach that respects your concerns and supports real, lasting change.
One of the most popular options we provide is the Activator Method®. It’s a gentle, instrument-assisted technique designed for precision without the forceful movements some people worry about.
What the Activator Method Is & How It Works
The Activator Method uses a small handheld tool called the Activator Adjusting Instrument. It’s spring loaded and designed to deliver a controlled, quick impulse to specific joints in the spine or body.
Instead of twisting motions or heavy manual pressure, the instrument delivers a low-force adjustment that many patients describe as a light tapping sensation. That’s why it can be a great fit for people who feel nervous about traditional adjusting.
The instrument allows us to target specific vertebrae or joints with a high level of accuracy. Because the impulse is delivered very quickly, your body usually doesn’t have time to tense up in response. That can help you stay relaxed and make the adjustment feel more comfortable. Precision matters because the goal isn’t just movement. It’s the right movement in the right place.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Every Activator visit begins with a thorough assessment. We take time to understand what’s happening in your body before we begin care. As part of your evaluation, we may include techniques such as leg length analysis to help identify areas of imbalance and possible nerve irritation.
Once we know which areas need support, the adjustment itself is pretty straightforward. You’ll lie comfortably on a treatment table. We’ll use the Activator instrument to deliver targeted impulses along the spine or affected joints
Most sessions are efficient and gentle, and many patients appreciate that there’s no cracking or twisting involved.
Common Reasons Patients Choose Activator Care
People often look into the Activator Method because they want a lighter approach while still addressing what’s driving their discomfort. Many patients visit our clinic for concerns such as:
- Back discomfort
- Neck tension
- Headaches
- Sciatica-type symptoms
- Joint stiffness and reduced mobility
Beyond symptom relief, many patients also notice smoother movement, improved flexibility, and an easier time getting through daily activities like driving, bending, lifting, or sleeping.
Who This Approach May Suit
Because the Activator Method is low force and highly controlled, it may be appropriate for a wide range of people, especially those who prefer a gentler style of care. It’s often chosen by:
- Seniors
- People managing arthritis or osteoporosis
- Those recovering from injuries
- Pregnant women who want gentle support
- Anyone who feels uneasy about manual adjustments
Another plus is consistency. The instrument delivers a calibrated impulse each time, which helps keep adjustments predictable from visit to visit.
Supporting More Than Symptom Relief
While many people start care because something hurts, our goal is to support the function of your spine and nervous system in a way that helps your body work at its best. When joint motion improves and irritation settles, many patients feel better equipped to move well, rest better, and handle everyday stress.
Dr. Schmidt may include the Activator Method as part of a larger care plan based on your needs. That might include relief-focused care, corrective support, or ongoing wellness-based maintenance.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Contact Schmidt Chiropractic Clinic today to learn more about the Activator Method and whether it may be a fit for your goals. We’d love to help you move forward with care that feels calm, supportive, and focused on your long-term well-being.

