Is It Normal for a Chiropractor to Touch Your Buttocks During a Session?

It's not uncommon for chiropractors to touch various areas of the body, including the buttocks, during a session. This may be part of the examination or treatment process, especially when dealing with lower back, hip, or pelvic issues. However, any form of touching should be relevant to the treatment and performed in a professional manner. Communication and informed consent are key in ensuring a comfortable and appropriate treatment environment.

Permission and Professionalism

It is important for the chiropractor to ask for your permission before initiating any contact. They should explain why they need to touch that specific area and how it relates to your treatment. Chiropractors utilize various techniques that involve touching the buttocks, such as adjustments to the sacrum, ilium, or the ischial tuberosity (the bone you sit on, located in the gluteal fold near the buttocks).

Types of Adjustments

Common techniques that may involve touching the buttocks include:
1. **Sacroiliac joint manipulation** - This involves adjusting the sacrum, a bone directly above the buttocks.
2. **Thompson Drop** - This technique may require hand contact on the ischial tuberosity, which is the bone you sit on, and is located near the buttocks.
3. **pelvic realignment** - The chiropractor may use their heel to contact the PSIS (posterior superior iliac spine) or the ISIS (iliac spine), which may feel like contact on the buttocks.

Proper Communication

If you feel uncomfortable or if the chiropractor lingers too long, it is crucial to communicate your feelings. You have the right to ask questions and request modifications to the treatment if necessary. A polite chiropractor will explain that contact of this nature is coming and will ask for your permission. However, even with permission, the chiropractor does not have the right to grope you or linger excessively with hand contact.

Understanding the Muscles and Benefits

There are several muscles in the buttock region, including the Gluteus Minimus, Medius, and Maximus. Balancing these muscles is crucial for addressing issues like lower back pain, hip pain, and pelvic disorders. Additionally, receiving a proper chiropractic adjustment can feel relieving and improve overall body alignment.

Real-Life Experience

Many people have shared their positive experiences with chiropractors who address pelvic and lower back issues. For instance, someone with damage to their tailbone since 2008 found a chiropractor on YouTube who adjusted their tailbone from within their pants. This chiropractor not only fixed frequent urination but also made the patient feel like they could trust the treatment. They reported that chiropractors often have better training in anatomy compared to medical doctors, and their degree in anatomy makes them uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal issues.

Chiropractic care is a valuable option for those seeking alternatives to traditional medical treatments. It's important to find a chiropractor who communicates well, respects your boundaries, and respects the professionalism of the practice.