The physics of spinal manipulation. Part III. Some characteristics of adjusting that facilitate joint distraction.

The role of quickness, adjustive amplitude, preadjustive tension, and countertension in facilitating joint distraction to cavitation is investigated. These characteristics are further shown to contribute to joint isolation, protection of joints from injury, and enhanced adjustive efficiency. Block and spring "slinky dog" models aid in illustrating the physics principles involved. The complete role of mass and acceleration in the adjustive process is discussed.