The Spinal Flow® Technique - FAQ

What is it?

Spinal Flow Technique is a gentle, hands-on therapy which was developed based on over 20 years of research and clinical success by Dr Carli Axford.
It focuses on releasing tension along the spine to help the body “unwind” stored stress, trauma, or physical restriction.

Instead of forcing change, I use light touch on specific points (called access points) to encourage your body’s nervous system to reset and heal naturally.

Regular Spinal Flow supports spinal health and alignment, helping the nervous system flow without restriction and therefore reducing or eliminating pain and improving mental and emotional wellbeing.

What issues and conditions can it help with?

I have witnessed amazing results for many different health concerns or conditions; here are a few of the most common conditions people initially come to the clinic with:

Back and neck pain

Shoulder pain and injuries

Migraines and Headaches

Sciatica

Chronic Fatigue

Fibromyalgia

Autoimmune conditions

ADHD

Digestive issues

Reproductive issues

Asthma

Stress & anxiety

Emotional trauma

 Due to the gentle nature of the treatment, there are no contraindications. It is safe for babies, children through to the elderly. If you have an acute injury, recent surgery or illness please consult your GP or consultant before booking.

How do I know if I have a spinal blockage?

During your first session I will perform a free postural and spinal assessment before we begin treatment. I will also ask you to fill in an intake form before your first session. The physical assessment and form will give me a clear picture of where your spinal blockage(s) are along the 7 gateways, and we can talk through this before we begin treatment. A great diagram that may help you understand a little more regarding blockages, how they show up in the body and can make you feel, alongside how they correspond to the gateways, can be found here.

Do you manipulate/crack my spine?

No — there is no cracking or forceful manipulation.

Unlike chiropractic adjustments, Spinal Flow uses very light pressure. Most of the movement that happens comes from your own body responding (you might feel gentle waves, twitches, or pulsing).

You will lie down on your stomach, facing down, I will spend time working on and around your sacrum, spine, cranium and feet with light finger pressure and holds.

Will it hurt?

  • Most people feel deep relaxation

  • Some feel warmth, tingling, or emotional release

  • Occasionally, you might feel mild discomfort if an area is very tight, but it’s not meant to be painful

If something feels too intense, you can always let me know during the session.

How will I feel after the session?

This can vary and often evolves session by session. Most people feel very relaxed straight after a session, so I always suggest taking a walk, sitting down for at least 10 minutes and drinking some water before driving home. If possible, taking it easy for the rest of the day is important. Staying hydrated, eating food gentle on your digestion, listening to your body and taking adequate rest is especially important in the first 24 hours after a treatment.

What do I wear?

Wear comfortable, loose clothing.

  • You stay fully clothed

  • No need to change into a gown

  • Think:  baggy, soft pants, t-shirt or jumper. No jeans if possible.

  • Socks - I may be based for parts of the session at the feet so feel free to wear socks if you would feel more comfortable.

How long does a session last?

A typical session is 20 – 25 minutes.

First visits will be a bit longer because they include:

  • Health history

  • Assessment of your spine and posture

How often can I come?

This depends on your goals, but commonly:

  • 1–2 times per week at the start

  • You can have more than one session in a day and this may be recommended

  • Then less often as your body improves

Consistency early on is usually recommended to build momentum.

How many sessions do I need?

There’s no one-size answer, but a general guide:

  • Some people feel changes in 1–3 sessions

  • Many follow a 12–24 session plan

  • Longer-term care may be suggested for chronic issues

It’s less about a “quick fix” and more about long term and lasting changes. We can hold spinal blockages for years, decades, our entire life, so it is important to understand that it may take time for your body to release and nervous system to soften into these changes.

Quick summary

  • Gentle, non-invasive

  • No cracking or force

  • Usually relaxing, not painful

  • Fully clothed sessions

  • Works over multiple visits

  • Consistency is key

Still have some questions? Feel free to drop me a message.

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