History

Directional Non-Force Technique is the original low force method of chiropractic that was developed by the late Dr. Richard VanRumpt (1904 - 1987). Often known by its acronym, "D.N.F.T.," it is unique in conception and thought to be the fountainhead for many other low force techniques today.

Dr. VanRumpt, in 1923 while still a student at the National College of Chiropractic, became interested in a different approach to structural analysis and correction. He initially found that the mere pressure of spinal palpation on his patients often resulted in unexpected structural, symptomatic, and physiologic changes. He soon felt that a low force approach could not only be an alternative to the more forceful methods taught in school, but might even surpass them in power and results.

Dr. VanRumpt began teaching his method of analysis and adjusting to other doctors in the early 1940s and continued single handed until 1986. He authorized Dr. Christopher John of Beverly Hills, California to be his successor, and Dr. John has been further researching and teaching Directional Non-Force Technique to present.

Philosophy

The goals of Directional Non-Force Technique are very much in line with the roots of traditional chiropractic: analyze and correct subluxations wherever they occur in the body, and allow the body to heal itself. Subluxations, as defined in Directional Non-Force Technique, are misalignments of tissue, osseous or soft, which result in nerve interference.

Some examples of D.N.F.T. philosophy are:

A given subluxation can, in most cases, be completely corrected on any one visit, without the need to repeat it on successive visits. This is possible, however, only if every aspect of vertebrae, rib, disc, and associated soft tissue structure is taken into account in analysis and correction. The "Innate Intelligence" of the patient's body is capable of yielding the best diagnostic subluxation information. X-ray, manual palpation, thermographs, or biomechanic theory, although valuable for various purposes, are not considered to be the optimal methods for analyzing subluxations. This is obtained through use of the D.N.F.T. challenge and leg check.

The body best and most permanently responds to a very specific, directional, low force, impulse style of corrective thrust (delivered by the thumb).

There is a sequence of correction of subluxations, different on each visit, which constitute a process referred to as "retracing." This means that the body is de-compensating as the result of relieving of structural faults and associated nerve interference. After a relatively brief series of visits, most patients report enhanced long term structural stability and health.

D.N.F.T. adjustments are comprehensive and include: spine, pelvis, cranials, shoulder, upper and lower extremities, TMJ, and organ reflexes. There are very few contraindications for Directional Non-Force Technique chiropractic, and it may be safely applied to babies, geriatrics, post surgical patients, and those who have disc herniations.

A technical description of D.N.F.T. analysis and adjustment:

Both a challenge and leg check are used to analyze subluxations. The challenge consists of a gentle push against a structure in a specific direction. The challenge is followed by a highly specific leg check within a few seconds, and the doctor then makes an observation of whether or not the "reactive leg" has pulled up short. If the reactive leg has pulled up short, then the test is positive and means that the structure, in the direction challenged, is causing nerve interference. If there is no pull-up of the reactive leg, then the body indicates that no nerve interference is being produced and to not adjust the structure in question.

If the indication is to adjust the structure, then a light thumb impulse is delivered in the appropriate direction. If a vertebrae is adjusted, then along with it is the analysis and correction of rib (if present), discs, and ligaments. Directional Non-Force Technique Today

It has been a long stated goal of Directional Non-Force Technique chiropractic to effect maximum benefits in a minimal number of visits. This has made D.N.F.T. a very patient oriented technique with features appreciated by many. There are almost no contraindications, and the effects are as powerful on a young child as a mature well developed athlete. Directional Non-Force Technique is a constantly evolving product, and presently represents over 70 years of clinic research and experience.

There is a referral list for patients and doctors who are seeking a D.N.F.T. practitioner. Those on the list must maintain certain annual seminar attendance requirements, and pass certain motor skill and knowledge tests. This list is maintained by Dr. John and can be accessed through the D.N.F.T. hotline number: 310-657-2338, or on this website in the referral doctors section.

Directional Non-Force Techniquetm , D.N.F.Ttm. , D.N.F.T. Seminarstm, and Directional Non-Force Technique Seminarstm are exclusive trademarks and service marks of Dr. Christopher F. John. He has a private practice in Beverly Hills, California and teaches D.N.F.T. Seminars throughout the United States. The address and phone number of D.N.F.T. Seminars are: