Like physical or occupational therapists, chiropractors can train and utilize various methods and techniques to help treat their patients. While different modalities may change how a chiropractor manipulates and adjusts your body, the goal is often the same — to restore balance and remove interferences in your nervous and musculoskeletal system.
One of the techniques we utilize here at Active Chiropractic is the Zone Technique. Dr. Anthony Cutting was the first doctor certified in Oregon to perform this technique and is the only practitioner in our area!
What is the Zone Technique?
Created by Dr. Peter Goldman, the Zone Technique combines the principles of D.D. Palmer’s real chiropractic with the teachings of Dr. Thurman Fleet, who developed Zone Therapy in 1931. Zone Therapy is based on the notion that six systems or zones govern the body. When one of these Zones is disrupted, it can cause pain, discomfort, disease, and other health issues.
Each of these zones is regulated by a specific part of the brain. If you think of the human body as an electrical system, the brain’s centers function as a positive pole, with associated negative poles in certain areas of the spinal cord. Chiropractic adjustments using the Zone Technique focus on restoring communication between the brain and spinal cord, which promotes balance and natural healing responses.
What Are The Six Zones of The Body?
Zone 1 – Glandular System
The glandular center of your brain controls and regulates all of the glands in your body. This includes the thyroid, adrenals, pineal gland, pituitary gland, uterus and ovaries, prostate and gonads, and other glands. The glands in your body are responsible for many functions, including memory, appetite regulation, relaxation, sleep, energy, and more.
Symptoms of Zone 1 Being Out of Balance
- Chronic Fatigue
- Headache Migraine
- Thyroid Issues
- Weak Immunity
- Insomnia
- Bad Memory
- Poor Concentration
- Poor Appetite
- Fibromyalgia
- Reproductive Issues
- Suppressed Creativity
Zone 2 – Eliminative System
The eliminative system includes the lungs, kidneys, bladder, and skin. These organs are involved with waste elimination and play an essential role in reducing toxin buildup in your body. This turn helps to strengthen your immune system function, reduce bloating, and create optimal respiratory function.
Symptoms of Zone 2 Being Out of Balance
- Allergies/Congestion
- Sinus Infections
- Asthma
- Shortness of Breath
- Hives/Rash
- Psoriasis
- Kidney Issues
- Bladder Issues
- Constipation
- Hemorrhoids
- Diarrhea
Zone 3 – Nervous System
Zone 3 comprises both the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (all other nerves in the body). Each nerve in the body is responsible for different functions, including sight, digestion, mood, sleep, the reproductive system, hormonal balance, hearing, and more. Balancing this zone can help promote a healthy immune system, improve mood and sleep, and increase energy, calm feelings, and relaxation. In addition, it can help balance the hormonal system.
Symptoms of Zone 3 Being Out of Balance
- Hearing/Sight Issues
- Inability to Sleep
- Sciatica
- Arm/Hand or Leg/Foot Tingling
- Hyperactivity/ADHD
- Cold Hands/Feet
- Hormonal Imbalance
- Anxiety/Nervousness
- Extreme Worry/Fear
Zone 4 – Digestive System
The digestive system is what makes up Zone 4. This system is responsible for taking nutrients from the food we eat and breaking them down to provide cells energy. Balancing this zone and maintaining a proper diet may help improve liver, intestine, and gallbladder health, decrease food sensitivities, and boost your energy. Additionally, it can help restore a normal appetite.
Symptoms of Zone 4 Being Out of Balance
- Compromised Immune System
- Problems With Appetite
- Sensitivity to Foods
- Weight Gain or Loss
- Problems with Digestion
Zone 5 – Muscular System
The muscular system is composed of all the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues which allow you to move. This system also impacts balance, flexibility, and strength and directly influences your spinal alignment and nerve connections. Balancing this zone can help restore proper range of motion and movement, improve flexibility, eliminate chronic pain, and improve posture. In addition, it can help restore your center of gravity and expedite muscle recovery.
Symptoms of Zone 5 Being Out of Balance
- Weakness/Fatigue
- Poor Balance/Posture
- Joint Stiffness
- Loss of Flexibility
- Inflammation
- Muscle Spasms
- Neck/Back Pain
- Upper/Lower Extremity Pain
Zone 6 – Circulatory System
Your circulatory system is driven by your heart pumping blood through your veins, arteries, and capillaries. During this process, the blood brings nutrients and oxygen to your cells and carries away waste. Bringing balance to this system can help normalize your blood pressure, encourage proper circulation, improve heart health and healthy blood vessels.
Symptoms of Zone 6 Being Out of Balance
- High Blood Pressure
- Cold Hands/Feet
- pH Balance
- Low Blood Pressure
- Arrhythmias
- Palpitations
- Migraines/Headaches
- Thyroid Issues
- Poor Circulation
- Edema/Swelling
- Fever/Temperature
Live well, Live active. To learn more about the Zone Technique and how Active Chiropractic can help you improve your health, please reach out to us at 541-543-5032.