Founder: James M. Cox, DC, DACBR
Year founded: Early 1960s
Certification requirements: The process for becoming certified in Cox Technic involves taking a two-part course, the first section consisting of 12 hours and the second requiring 18. Once those are completed, a written and practical exam must be passed. This exam consists of reviewing cases, determining individuals’ diagnoses, and treating them as appropriate.
Technique description: Cox Technic, also commonly referred to as the Cox technique or flexion distraction, is performed with the patient lying face down on a table specifically designed to distract and flex the spine. At the same time, the chiropractor performs manual adjustments in an effort to treat disc-based issues such as bulging discs and disc herniations.
Research published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine adds that this particular chiropractic technique involves the use of two protocols. Protocol I consists of treating cervical disc herniation in which there is pain below the elbow, whereas Protocol II is used when there is cervical disc herniation with no below-the-elbow pain.
Basic technique principles: Logan University describes the Cox flexion distraction technique as a “gentle, non-surgical, no-force procedure that helps the spine heal properly—and keeps it as pain free as possible.” The way it works is by using flexion distraction and decompression that, when combined, increase intervertebral disc height, decrease disc pressure, and realign the spine. This helps to remove tension on the fibers and nerves while also improving circulation and range of motion.
Conditions this technique helps treat: Many studies have been conducted on Cox Technic and have found that it can help treat a number of conditions. These include:
