Cox® Decompression: Gentle Care That AS Patients Can Finally Tolerate
WHEN YOUR SPINE NEEDS A GENTLE TOUCH: CHIROPRACTIC CARE AND ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS
If daily back pain and stiffness are robbing you of your joy and leaving you wondering what the future holds, you are not alone. If you or someone you love has been told about having a diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) — or suspects something similar might be behind stubborn back and hip pain — you merit honest answers and real hope. Here's some good news: chiropractic care, delivered with the right approach, can be a significant part of your path toward feeling better.
YOUR CHIROPRACTOR MAY CATCH WHAT OTHERS MISS
A 2026 case study published in Cureus tells the story of a 15-year-old girl who had suffered three years of chronic low back and hip pain — moderate to severe, daily, and barely touched by physical therapy, medication, or injections. Standard lumbar MRI had come back nearly normal. It was her chiropractor who noted that her symptoms' stubbornness and the absence of structural findings pointed to something inflammatory rather than mechanical. A pelvic MRI was ordered, showing bilateral sacroiliac joint damage consistent with juvenile ankylosing spondylitis. A prompt referral to rheumatology put her on the right path, and for the first time in years, she began to feel better. (1) Your chiropractor here at Poulin Chiropractic of Herndon and Ashburn is trained to do more than alleviate pain — we're also skilled at recognizing when something more is going on and getting you to the right help.
GENTLE CARE THAT RESPECTS INFLAMED SPINES
For patients with AS, a more forceful approach simply won't do — and your chiropractor know how to adjust spinal manipulation treatment to meet your needs. As James M. Cox, DC, DACBR, developer of the Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management, describes from a case shared by Dr. Mike Poulin of Virginia: "High velocity, low amplitude adjusting is not very well tolerated by these patients, and long y-axis Cox® decompression is welcome relief."
With Cox® Technic, your chiropractor uses a slow, rhythmic, hands-on motion to softly decompress the spine — no sudden movements, no harsh forces, just gentle relief. This long y-axis decompression gently opens spinal joints, reduces pressure on inflamed tissues, and restores motion in a way that AS patients can actually tolerate and appreciate. Dr. Poulin's patient with ankylosing spondylitis experienced meaningful pain relief through this approach. (2)
YOU DON'T HAVE TO SIMPLY ENDURE IT
Whether you're newly diagnosed, still looking for answers, or looking for conservative care to complement your medical treatment, chiropractic has a thoughtful role to play. The goal is never to replace your medical specialist or rheumatologist — it's about partnering with your medical team to help you move better, hurt less, and get back to living your life.
CONTACT Poulin Chiropractic of Herndon and Ashburn
You deserve care that listens. You deserve care that's gentle. And you deserve a provider like yours at Poulin Chiropractic of Herndon and Ashburn who knows both how to help and when to refer.
Take the first step toward feeling better — schedule your chiropractic appointment today!
