What is the Chiropractic “Ring Dinger” and is it safe? When people hear the term “chiropractic,” their reactions vary widely. Some immediately think of relief for neck or back pain. In contrast, others envision dramatic, sometimes shocking, videos of intense adjustments online. One technique often associated with those videos is the “Ring Dinger” adjustment. But what is the Ring Dinger, and is it the right choice for you? Let’s break it down.

What Is the “Ring Dinger” Chiropractic Technique?

The Ring Dinger is a chiropractic technique popularized by Dr. Gregory Johnson, a chiropractor in Houston, Texas. This adjustment focuses on full-spine decompression using rapid, manual traction.

Here’s how it works:

  1. The patient lies flat on their back on a special table.
  2. The chiropractor stabilizes the patient’s pelvis with straps.
  3. Then, with a quick, forceful pull, the chiropractor applies manual traction to the spine, mobilizing the entire length of the spine in one swift motion.

This adjustment often results in loud popping or cracking sounds, leading to the technique’s dramatic reputation. Proponents of the Ring Dinger claim that it provides immediate relief for pain, improved spinal alignment, and decompression for herniated or bulging discs.

The Chiropractic “Ring Dinger” is NOT a Typical Chiropractic Adjustment

The Ring Dinger is not representative of what most chiropractors offer. In fact, this technique differs significantly from other chiropractic adjustments in both method and intensity.

Key Differences:

  • Force and Range of Motion: The Ring Dinger applies a rapid, high-force pull to the entire spine, unlike traditional adjustments focusing on specific joints or segments.
  • Decompression Focus: While many chiropractic techniques include elements of spinal decompression, this method aims to decompress the entire spine in one motion.
  • Specialized Equipment: Traditional chiropractic adjustments typically don’t require the specialized stabilization straps and tables the Ring Dinger uses.

This level of intensity is not suitable—or safe—for every patient, which brings us to an essential consideration: Is the Ring Dinger the right approach for you?

Potential Risks of the Chiropractic Ring Dinger

While some patients swear by their results, it’s essential to approach the Ring Dinger with caution. This technique is not universally safe and can exacerbate neck or back issues instead of resolving them. Potential risks include increased pain, muscle spasms, or even injury to the joints in the cervical spine.

Conditions That the Ring Dinger May Aggravate:

  • Osteoporosis or Low Bone Density: High-force spinal adjustments can put undue pressure on fragile bones.
  • Spinal Instability: This technique may aggravate the condition of patients with spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebrae) or severe scoliosis.
  • Herniated or Bulging Discs: While some patients with disc issues may benefit from decompression, the rapid nature of the Ring Dinger can risk further damage.
  • Vascular Issues: People with conditions like aortic aneurysms or advanced arterial disease should avoid high-velocity spinal manipulations.

Always discuss your medical history with a chiropractor before undergoing any spinal adjustment. Not all techniques are created equal, and safety should always come first.

Understanding Normal Cervical Traction

To better understand the Ring Dinger, it’s helpful to compare it to cervical traction, a typical chiropractic and physical therapy method for relieving neck pain and tension.

Cervical Traction Basics:

  • Purpose: Gentle, controlled neck stretching relieves pressure on spinal discs and nerves.
  • Technique: A practitioner can perform this manually or with mechanical devices. Patients may also use at-home devices under professional guidance.
  • Safety: Cervical traction is typically low-risk and highly adjustable to meet individual needs.

In contrast, the Ring Dinger applies cervical traction as part of its whole-spine adjustment in a high-velocity, high-force manner. While effective for some, this intensity level is unnecessary—and potentially harmful—for others.

Comparing Chiropractic Techniques

Choosing the right chiropractic approach depends on your needs, preferences, and medical history. Here’s how the Ring Dinger stacks up against two more common chiropractic methods:

Diversified Technique

  • Overview: A widely used chiropractic method focusing on precise, manual adjustments to specific joints.
  • What to Expect: Chiropractors use their hands to apply controlled, high-velocity thrusts to targeted areas of the spine.
  • Best For: Patients with localized pain or misalignments.
  • Pros: Precise and customizable; can be gentle or firm depending on patient needs.
  • Cons: Requires more frequent, localized adjustments for comprehensive results.

Activator Method

  • Overview: A low-force technique that uses a handheld device (the Activator) to deliver precise adjustments without manual thrusts.
  • What to Expect: Gentle, controlled impulses are applied to specific joints or areas of the spine.
  • Best For: Patients who prefer a gentler approach or have conditions like osteoporosis.
  • Pros: Minimal discomfort; highly targeted and safe.
  • Cons: Results may take longer compared to manual techniques.

“Ring Dinger”

  • Overview: A high-force, full-spine decompression technique that applies rapid manual traction.
  • What to Expect: A dramatic, intense adjustment targeting the entire spine at once.
  • Best For: Patients seeking whole-spine decompression and relief from tension.
  • Pros: Immediate relief for some; full-spine focus.
  • Cons: High intensity; not suitable for everyone; potential risks for certain conditions.

Chiropractic Safety: What Does the Research Say?

Chiropractic care, when performed by a licensed professional, is generally safe. Research consistently supports its safety and efficacy for conditions like neck pain, back pain, and headaches.

Published Chiropractic Research:

  1. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that serious adverse events from chiropractic care are extremely rare. In fact, only one in a million Chiropractic adjustments result in severe complications.¹
  2. Another study in Spine Journal concluded that chiropractic adjustments are an effective, low-risk treatment for acute and chronic low back pain.²

However, ensuring the technique matches the patient’s needs is critical to patient safety. A good chiropractor will always perform a thorough assessment and customize care accordingly. This emphasis on your safety and well-being is a testament to the value we place on our patients.

Is the Ring Dinger Chiropractic Adjustment Right for You?

The Ring Dinger may be an option for some, but it’s only for some. If you’re seeking relief from neck pain, back pain, or headaches, consider these steps before committing to any adjustment:

  1. Schedule a Consultation: A comprehensive evaluation ensures your chiropractor understands your medical history and can recommend the safest and most effective approach.
  2. Discuss Alternatives: Techniques like Diversified or Activator may better suit your needs if you prefer gentler adjustments.
  3. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to inquire about the risks and benefits of any technique, including the Ring Dinger.

Our chiropractic practice prioritizes patient safety and satisfaction. We offer a range of adjustment techniques tailored to your unique condition and comfort level.

Why Choose Integrative Health and Rehab for Your Chiropractic Care?

We understand that seeking chiropractic care can feel overwhelming, especially with so much conflicting information available. That’s why our office is committed to providing personalized care that prioritizes your health and safety.

What We Offer:

  • Comprehensive Evaluations: Every new patient receives a thorough assessment to ensure we understand the cause of their pain and can offer the best type of treatment.
  • Tailored Techniques: From gentle adjustments with the Activator to precise manual techniques, we have options for every comfort level.
  • Free Consultations: Curious about whether chiropractic care is right for you? Schedule a free consultation to discuss your concerns.

Final Thoughts

The Chiropractor Ring Dinger is just one of many chiropractic techniques and is far from representative of all types of Chiropractic. While it may be effective for some, it’s important to understand the potential risks. Be sure to explore alternatives to ensure the safest, most effective treatment for your needs.

Don’t let pain hold you back. If you’re struggling with neck pain, back pain, or headaches, contact us today for a free consultation. Our office provides safe and effective Chiropractic adjustments, as well as Acupuncture, Dry Needling, and Low-Level Laser therapy. Let’s work together to find the best solution for your health and well-being. Ready to feel better? Schedule your free consultation today!

References

  1. Haldeman, S., et al. (2016). Adverse events following chiropractic care: a systematic review. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 39(5), 381–391.
  2. Rubinstein, S. M., et al. (2018). Spinal manipulative therapy for acute low back pain: a systematic review. Spine Journal, 18(1), 76–95.