Understanding SOT Blocking

When most people think about chiropractic care, they may think of the crazy videos they’ve seen online with huge “cracks” and “pops”. The classic adjustments that you associate with chiropractic are just one of the many options that chiropractors can use to adjust. One lesser known technique within chiropractic care is Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT) Blocking. This specialized method is gentler and offers numerous benefits, making it an excellent choice for many seeking relief from pain and improved overall well-being.me.

What is SOT Blocking?

SOT Blocking is a chiropractic technique developed by Dr. Major Bertrand DeJarnette in the 1920s. The "Sacro" in SOT refers to the sacrum, the triangular bone at the base of the spine, while "Occipital" refers to the occiput, the bone at the base of the skull. This technique involves using wedge-shaped blocks placed under specific areas of the pelvis while the patient lies face down or on their back. The purpose of these blocks is to correct and stabilize the alignment of the pelvis and the spine, thereby improving the function of the nervous system.

How Does SOT Blocking Work?

The core principle behind SOT Blocking is to restore proper alignment and motion in the spine and pelvis. Misalignments can cause nerve interference, leading to pain and other health issues. By strategically placing the blocks, chiropractors can gently guide the spine and pelvis back into proper alignment. This technique works through a combination of gravity and the body's own weight, which helps to create a gentle yet effective adjustment.

The process typically involves the patient lying down on a chiropractic table. The chiropractor then places the blocks under specific points of the pelvis or upper leg. Patients are usually instructed to relax and breathe deeply, allowing the blocks to work their magic. The chiropractor may adjust the position of the blocks during the session depending on the category of blocking being done.

SOT Blocking is done in lieu of the typical High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude (HVLA) adjustments that are the classic techniques that most people associate with chiropractic. Some patients need a modified approach that is more gentle. SOT Blocking is one of the many other techniques that use less force and can be better suited for some of the more fragile patients coming into the office.

Benefits of SOT Blocking

SOT Blocking offers a multitude of benefits, making it a valuable component of chiropractic care:

Pain Relief: By realigning the spine and pelvis, SOT Blocking can alleviate pressure on nerves, reducing pain in areas such as the lower back, hips, and neck.
Improved Nervous System Function: Proper alignment allows for better communication between the brain and the rest of the body, enhancing overall function and health.
Enhanced Mobility: Restoring alignment can improve joint function and range of motion, making daily activities easier and more comfortable.
Gentle Alternative: This technique avoids the need for HVLA adjustments, surgery or medication, offering a safe alternative for pain relief and wellness.

Who Can Benefit from SOT Blocking?

SOT Blocking is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including:

Elderly: Many older individuals suffer from osteoporosis making them more susceptible to fractures, even from normal activities of daily living. Doing HVLA adjustments with patients who have weakened bones is not in the best interest of patients, making this gentler approach a great alternative.
Pregnant Women: This gentle technique can help alleviate pregnancy-related back pain and improve pelvic alignment in preparation for childbirth. In the later stages of pregnancy, patients may have difficulty maneuvering on the chiropractic table for adjustments and getting into certain setups needed to perform HVLA adjustments. Blocking allows the patient to lay in one position for 20-30 minutes which is not only effective but also a relaxing way to get relief.

Embrace Chiropractic Care for Well-Rounded Health

SOT Blocking is a lesser known technique but it is just one of the many options that chiropractors use to help you achieve optimal health. Certain populations may not do as well with HVLA adjustments but that doesn’t mean that chiropractic care isn’t for them. Whichever method your chiropractor uses, you can experience relief through realignment. By addressing the root causes of pain and dysfunction, chiropractic care offers a pathway to a healthier, more balanced life. At our chiropractic and massage office, we are dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs and SOT Blocking is just one of the many techniques that can be utilized.

Bethany Wolcott

D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Mail

Small But Mighty: The Best Stocking Stuffers for Health & Wellness Lovers

By S21 GMB • December 8, 2025

When it comes to filling a stocking, there’s something magical about tiny treasures that pack a big punch. Sure, candy canes and fuzzy socks are classics—but what if your stocking stuffers could actually make someone feel better long after the holiday sugar crashes fade? This year, level up your gifting game with wellness-forward, feel-good, wow-that’s-so-useful ideas curated with your favorite chiropractic and massage office in mind. Whether you’re shopping for the gym buff, the “my neck hurts every day” coworker, the parent who needs a moment of peace, or that friend who swears they’re finally going to prioritize self-care in the new year, we’ve got you covered. Here are our top stocking stuffers that are cute, practical, and chiropractor-approved.

Gratitude for Your Body: 5 Ways to Thank Your Muscles and Joints This Season

By S21 GMB • December 1, 2025

Thanksgiving is the time of year when we pause to appreciate the big things—family, food, football, and maybe even a perfectly flaky pie crust. But there’s one thing we often forget to be grateful for: our bodies . Every day, your muscles, joints, and connective tissues do a whole lot more than you realize. They carry you through grocery store marathons, marathon-marathons, late-night study sessions, workdays, workouts, and everything in between. So this season, before you grab that second helping of mashed potatoes (no judgment here), take a moment to thank the parts of you that keep you moving. Here are five simple, meaningful ways to show your body a little gratitude—and feel better in the process.

Lower Cross Syndrome: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Fix It

By S21 GMB • November 21, 2025

If you’ve ever stood up after a long day at your desk and thought, “Why does my lower back feel like it’s been personally offended?”—you’re not alone. In fact, your posture may be telling a whole story. Enter Lower Cross Syndrome (LCS) : a common postural pattern that shows up when certain muscle groups decide to overachieve while others go on vacation. The good news? You can absolutely fix it—and your favorite chiropractic and massage team is here to help.

Boosting Your Immunity as We Head into Winter

By S21 GMB • November 17, 2025

As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, winter brings cozy nights, comfort food, and—for many—an uptick in sniffles, coughs, and the flu. While we can’t control every germ that crosses our path, we can support our immune systems to better defend against them. A strong immune system is the body’s best defense against seasonal illnesses, and with a few intentional habits, you can give yours a well-deserved boost this winter. Let’s break down some evidence-based ways to keep your immune system in top shape through the colder months.

Breaking Down the Raking Up: How to Protect Your Back This Fall

By S21 GMB • November 10, 2025

Fall in Buffalo is beautiful—the crisp air, the smell of bonfires, and, of course, the sea of colorful leaves blanketing your yard. But before you grab your rake and get to work, it’s worth talking about something most people don’t think about until it’s too late: the physical toll of yard work. Raking may seem harmless, but poor technique, repetitive motion, and improper lifting can lead to back pain, muscle strain, and even more serious injuries. Here’s what you should know about protecting your body during fall cleanup—and how chiropractic and massage care can help you recover and stay strong all season long.

Move Better, Feel Better: Why Mobility Matters More Than You Think

By Solution21 Team • November 3, 2025

Let’s play a quick game: When you think about staying healthy, what comes to mind? Eating veggies? Getting enough sleep? Maybe strength training or cardio? All great answers — but there’s a key piece many people forget…

Prenatal Massage

By S21 GMB • October 27, 2025

8 Reasons You Should Get a Massage During Pregnancy

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

By S21 GMB • October 20, 2025

The Importance of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: When Your Funny Bone Isn’t So Funny

By S21 GMB • October 13, 2025

We’ve all hit our “funny bone” before — that zinger of tingling pain shooting down your arm that you shake out. But when that sensation starts happening without bumping your elbow, it might not be so funny anymore. You could be dealing with something called Cubital Tunnel Syndrome — a condition that gives your ulnar nerve a bit too much attention for comfort. Let’s break down what’s going on inside that elbow of yours, what causes this pesky problem, how to treat it, and what you can do to keep your funny bone feeling more “fun” than “numb.”

Sleeping Positions: Protecting Your Spine While You Snooze

By Solution21 Team • October 6, 2025

We all know that a good night’s sleep can make or break your day. But what many people don’t realize is that the position you sleep in plays a huge role in how rested—and pain-free—you feel when you wake up. The way you lie in bed can either support your spine and muscles or set you up for stiffness, discomfort, and even long-term issues. As chiropractors and massage therapists, we see the effects of poor sleep posture every day. The good news? With a few simple tweaks, you can protect your spine, reduce strain, and get the most out of your nightly rest. In this post, we’ll break down the best ways to sleep on your back and side, why stomach sleeping isn’t your spine’s best friend, and how the right pillow can make all the difference.