How It Works
The Sacro Occipital Technique, usually shortened to SOT, is a well-established, gentle chiropractic system that focuses on the relationship between the pelvis (the sacrum) and the head (the occiput), and the spine in between. It is known for its use of padded wedges, called blocks, and for its gentle, low-force approach.
What it is
SOT is a recognised system within chiropractic that uses careful assessment to categorise how the pelvis and spine are functioning, and then applies gentle techniques accordingly. Its most distinctive feature is the use of blocks — padded wedges placed under the pelvis while you lie down — which allow your own body weight and gravity to encourage a gradual, gentle rebalancing of the pelvis, with very little force from the practitioner.
How it works
By positioning the blocks in a particular way and letting gravity do the work over a few minutes, SOT aims to ease tension and improve the balance and movement of the pelvis and lower spine in a slow, low-force manner. The pelvis is the foundation of the spine, so improving how it sits and moves can influence how the whole back feels and functions. Because the technique relies on gentle positioning and the body's own weight rather than thrusts, many people find it comfortable and undemanding, and it can be used even where firmer methods would not suit.
What it is used for
SOT is used as part of care for mechanical problems of the spine and pelvis, including back pain, sacro-iliac and pelvic complaints, and related lower-back issues. It is one of several approaches we may draw on, chosen where its gentle, weight-assisted method suits the person and the problem, and it is often combined with other care such as soft-tissue work and a tailored programme of exercise and rehabilitation.
Who it suits
Because it is gentle and low-force, SOT suits people who prefer a softer approach, those who feel apprehensive about thrust techniques, and situations where a careful, gradual method is more appropriate. As with all our care, whether it is the right choice depends on a proper assessment of your particular problem, and we will explain our reasoning to you.
What to expect
If we use SOT with you, we will explain it first and settle you comfortably on the table, then position the blocks and allow a few minutes for the gentle, gravity-assisted effect to take place. There is no thrust and little sensation beyond the gentle support of the blocks beneath you, and most people find it a relaxed, comfortable experience that fits easily into a treatment session alongside other care.
Our approach at Back in Action
SOT is one of the well-established techniques our practitioners are trained in, and having it available means we can offer a gentle, structured approach to the spine and pelvis whenever it suits you. After assessing you, we will explain whether SOT is appropriate and how it fits into your overall plan, alongside other hands-on care and a tailored programme of exercises.
If you would like to understand whether a gentle, low-force approach such as SOT could help with your back or pelvic problem, we are happy to talk it through. A thorough assessment always comes first. You can get in touch to book an appointment, or see our new patients page for what to expect.
