TREATMENT IN NW Portland Chiropractic Adjustments
Targeted Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief & Long-Term Wellness
Anyone who has ever struggled with pain or discomfort that limits their ability to be at their best understands…here at Portland Backsmith Chiropractic we’re committed to helping patients achieve lasting pain management.
A chiropractic adjustment is a precise, hands-on technique used to restore proper joint motion and alignment to joints in the spine or an extremity that have become misaligned or are poorly moving do to injury or overuse or bad posture. Joint misalignment is the cause of joint degeneration and arthritis and can lead to muscle strains and ligament sprains and slipped discs. By restoring motion to specific areas, chiropractors help reduce pain, improve mobility, and optimize nervous system function.
At our NW Portland clinic—serving the all of Portland and surrounding areas, Backsmith Chiropractors specialize in advanced motion palpation technique adjustments. We use this technique to assess joint movement in all possible directions and we only provide adjustments in the areas and directions that need movement restored. Every individual will receive a unique, specific and effective treatment, there is no one size fits all. Whether you’re dealing with back pain, neck stiffness, plantar fascittis, TMJ pain, Chronic tension and tightness, Sports Injuries, Postural strain from work or tech use, Headaches and Migraines, Sciatica and Low Back Pain our goal is to provide effective, results-driven care that keeps you moving, feeling your best and getting back to what you love.
Benefits of Chiropractic Adjustments
- Restores proper joint movement and alignment to improve mobility and function
- Reduces pain and muscle tension without relying on medication
- Supports the body’s natural healing process for long-term results
- Improves posture and helps prevent future injuries
- Enhances athletic performance and everyday movement efficiency
- Addresses underlying mechanical issues, not just symptoms
Conditions Chiropractic Adjustments helps treat
How We Treat
At our NW Portland clinic—serving the all areas of Portland and beyond, Backsmith Chiropractors specialize in advanced motion palpation technique adjustments. We use this technique to assess joint movement in all possible directions and we only provide adjustments in the areas and directions that need movement restored. Every individual will receive a unique, specific and effective treatment, there is no one size fits all.
All adjustments are safe, specific, comfortable and focus on restoring normal movement that has been lost and possibly leading to early (or progressing) wear and tear.
Whether you’re dealing with back pain, neck stiffness, plantar fascittis, TMJ pain, Chronic tension and tightness, Sports Injuries, Postural strain from work or tech use, Headaches and Migraines, Sciatica and Low Back Pain our goal is to provide effective, results-driven care that keeps you moving, feeling your best and getting back to what you love.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Related Services
Along with an adjustment, our team of providers will determine what other therapies might be most effective at meeting your health care treatment goals. We offer:
Meet Your Team
Founded in 2006, Portland Backsmith Chiropractic is a holistic care chiropractic, massage therapy and chiropractic physical therapy practice based in Portland, OR.
With emphasis on personalization, the PBC team practices thoughtful integration of manual therapies to promote physical and mental well-being resulting in better overall health, fewer hospital visits and less use of medication.
Dr. Chris Zander
Dr. Zander has developed a reputation for being one of the top Chiropractors on the West Coast and is a past President of the Oregon Chiropractic Association. Due to his training and experience, he has had success with patients that felt other specialties, including Chiropractic, had not helped them in the past. He is dedicated to treating patients safely and effectively to get them well, stay and live happy healthy lives.
He has worked with a wide range of patients, from individuals managing common aches and injuries to professional and collegiate athletes, including NHL draft picks, PGA Tour golfers, Olympians, and athletes from NFL, NBA, MLS, NWSl, and X Games. Regardless of background or activity level, Dr. Zander brings the same thoughtful care and attention to every patient.
Dr. Zander earned degrees in biology and chemistry from the University of Illinois and his Doctor of Chiropractic from Western States Chiropractic College, where he is now an adjunct professor. He has practiced in the Pacific Northwest since 2006 and collaborates with a trusted network of healthcare providers to ensure each patient receives the right care at the right time.
Dr. David Higginson
With nearly two decades of chiropractic experience, Dr. David brings a broad and well-rounded background to the clinic. Over the course of his career, he has practiced in a variety of settings, including owning and managing his own clinic, working as an associate chiropractor, and teaching as an attending physician at a chiropractic university. For the past ten years, he has focused extensively on pediatric and prenatal chiropractic care as part of a specialized clinic.
Dr. David earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Western States Chiropractic College in Portland, Oregon, graduating Cum Laude. His clinical skills include both diversified and low-force spinal and extremity adjustments. He holds certifications in sports chiropractic, instrument assisted techniques, pediatric and prenatal care, soft tissue therapy, and physical therapy modalities such as rehabilitative exercise and electrotherapy.
Originally from British Columbia, Dr. David moved to Portland in 2002. Outside the clinic, he stays active with his family, coaching and cheering on his three teenage sons in ultimate frisbee and basketball, enjoying the outdoors and walking his pug with his partner.
Shinichiro, LMT
Shinichiro is a graduate of East West College and is eager to share his knowledge with the Backsmith Community. He provides personalized, intuitive based massage therapy for our patients. He utilizes a variety of different techniques such as Swedish, Deep Tissue and
Myofascial.
Originally from Kyoto, Japan, Shinichiro has lived in Portland for the past few years. In his free time, he enjoys playing with his dog, swimming, playing the piano, and relaxing in the hot springs.
Oddessa, LMT
Oddessa is excited to join the Backsmith team after her return back home to the PNW. Her work includes Swedish, Deep Tissue, Myofascial release, assisted movement and CranioSacral Therapy. She loves to learn and is continuing to develop her understanding of the embodied experience. In her spare time she enjoys walks with her rescue hound and practicing yoga.
Delaney, LMT
Delaney is a graduate of East West College of the Healing Arts with a deep passion for bodywork and holding space for healing. Her practice is grounded in presence, intuition, and informed technique. She offers a range of modalities including assisted stretching, trigger point therapy, relaxation, deep tissue, and Craniosacral – each session tailored to meet the unique needs of the individual. Delaney sees massage as a collaborative process and an honor to be part of each client’s healing journey.
Outside of the treatment room, you can find her outdoors – camping, backpacking, hiking or making music with friends.
Yesenya, Front Desk
After previously working at Portland Backsmith Chiropractic, Yesenya is thrilled to be back with the team. She enjoys helping patients feel at ease, supporting the flow of the office, and contributing to the positive energy that makes the clinic special.
Outside of work, Yesenya loves creative projects, photography, journaling, and spending time outdoors—especially near the coast. She’s grateful to return to a familiar place and be part of a community focused on healing and whole-body wellness.
Karina, Office Manager
Karina was born and raised in Northern California and moved to the beautiful PNW in 2007. She played collegiate soccer at Warner Pacific College in Portland, where she graduated with a bachelors in psychology. Her love of sports inspired a career in the healthcare industry and her passion for people’s well-being inspired a career in patient care.
In her spare time Karina enjoys spending time with her wife and doodle and of course, catching a Portland Thorns or Timbers game.
Frequently Asked Questions
A chiropractic adjustment is a precise, hands-on technique used to restore proper joint motion and alignment, particularly in the spine. By applying controlled force to a specific area, chiropractors help reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance nervous system function.
Motion palpation is an advanced method used by highly trained chiropractors to assess joint movement in real time. Instead of just feeling for misalignments in a static position, motion palpation evaluates how joints move during natural motion. This allows for more accurate diagnosis and targeted adjustments, leading to better long-term results.
Unlike static palpation, which only detects positional misalignments while a patient is at rest, motion palpation assesses how joints move dynamically. This provides a deeper understanding of restrictions, allowing chiropractors to apply adjustments that are more precise and effective. Patients often experience faster relief, improved mobility, and longer-lasting results with motion palpation-based care.
Chiropractic adjustments are beneficial for:
- Back and neck pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Sciatica and nerve pain
- Joint stiffness and mobility issues
- Postural imbalances
- Sports injuries and performance enhancement
Yes! Chiropractic adjustments are safe when performed by a skilled, trained professional. At our NW Portland clinic, we prioritize gentle yet effective techniques, always tailoring care to your specific needs.
Your first visit will include:
- A detailed consultation about your health concerns
- A comprehensive orthopedic, neurological and range of motion examination as well as a motion palpation assessment
- A customized treatment plan based on your unique needs
- Your first chiropractic adjustment (if appropriate)
The frequency of adjustments depends on your condition, goals, and response to care. Some patients feel relief after just one visit, while others benefit from a structured care plan aimed at addressing a specific injury or injuries and designed for long-term improvements in pain relief and restoration in mobility and function and posture goals.
We specialize in motion palpation-based adjustments, ensuring you receive the highest level of care. Conveniently located in the Alphabet District, near Slabtown and Pearl District, we provide expert chiropractic care in a welcoming and professional setting.
Service Areas
We proudly serve the following areas in Portland:
- NW Portland
- Slabtown
- The Pearl District
- Nob Hill
- Downtown Portland
- Goose Hollow
- All Surrounding Portland Communities