Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) is a distinct approach to chiropractic care that shifts the focus from physical manipulation to nervous system reorganization. Often called Network Care, this method enhances the body’s natural ability to self-correct and adapt to stress. It operates on the principle that physical and emotional tension stored in the body’s tissues can interfere with spinal function and overall well-being. By addressing the connection between the spine and the nervous system, NSA aims to improve adaptability and promote profound shifts in health and greater body awareness.
Defining Network Spinal Analysis (NSA)
Network Spinal Analysis is a specialized chiropractic modality developed by Dr. Donald Epstein in the 1980s. Its foundational philosophy holds that the spine and central nervous system are the primary conduits for the body’s energy and information flow. Unlike traditional chiropractic, which uses high-force adjustments to restore alignment, NSA teaches the nervous system new strategies for releasing tension and stress.
The core concept is that the body holds onto past physical, emotional, and chemical stressors, creating patterns of stored tension. This tension is viewed as a “Vertebral Subluxation Complex,” where the nervous system is locked in a defensive posture. Practitioners cue the brain to recognize and release these patterns naturally, rather than forcing the body out of this defensive state.
The goal is to shift the nervous system from “defense physiology,” characterized by bracing and rigidity, to “healing physiology,” which promotes growth and repair. By focusing on reorganization, NSA aims to create sustainable changes in the body’s structure and function. This fosters an internal environment where the individual can better adapt to new stressors and experience enhanced resilience.
The Mechanism of Spinal Waves and Entrainment
The functional mechanism of Network Spinal Analysis centers on applying light-touch contacts, often called “entrainments,” at specific points along the spine. These points, known as Spinal Gateways, are areas particularly receptive to gentle input. The practitioner applies a precise, low-force touch to prompt the nervous system to initiate self-correction.
These contacts cue the brain to address stored tension, allowing the body to develop two distinct “healing waves.” The first is the Respiratory Wave, a spontaneous, gentle, wave-like movement driven by uninhibited breath traveling through the spine. This wave helps release superficial tension and shifts the nervous system toward relaxation.
As care progresses, the second wave, the Somatopsychic Wave, begins to emerge. This wave involves more profound, visible undulations and movements along the spine and body. It is associated with releasing deeper, chronic patterns of tension, helping the body reorganize its structure and integrate body-mind awareness.
The entire process is referred to as “entrainment,” where the nervous system learns new, efficient strategies for energy release and movement. The gentle contacts act as repeated stimuli, helping the nervous system synchronize its rhythms. This learning process allows the nervous system to move toward greater organization and adaptability.
The Three Levels of Care
Network Spinal Analysis care is structured as a progressive journey through three distinct levels, each building upon the nervous system’s capacity. The initial phase is Discover Care (Level 1), which teaches the nervous system to recognize and respond to tension. The primary goal is to establish a connection between breath and spinal movement, initiating the Respiratory Wave to begin releasing tension.
Once the nervous system develops foundational awareness and consistently generates the Respiratory Wave, the patient progresses to Transform Care (Level 2). This stage focuses on utilizing the Somatopsychic Wave, which involves greater spinal mobility and profound releases of long-held tension patterns. This process facilitates deeper structural changes and encourages the body to develop new strategies for managing stress.
The final stage is Integrate Care (Level 3), where the focus shifts toward sustained self-correction and optimal lifestyle choices. In this phase, the body learns to spontaneously self-correct and maintain new strategies outside of the session. The aim is for the individual to experience greater coherence, increased awareness, and the ability to integrate physical, mental, and emotional changes. Progression is based on the individual’s demonstrated capacity for nervous system reorganization.
What to Expect During a Session
A Network Spinal Analysis session, referred to as an “entrainment,” is a gentle experience for the patient. The individual typically lies face down on a chiropractic table, remaining fully clothed. In some practices, sessions may take place in an open-plan setting with multiple patients, fostering a sense of shared energy.
The practitioner acts as a facilitator, guiding the nervous system toward new patterns rather than manipulating the spine. They apply light, specific touches to the Spinal Gateways, primarily in the neck and sacral regions. NSA is distinct from traditional adjustments due to the absence of forceful movements, cracking, or popping.
Patients are encouraged to focus on their breath and inner experience, viewing the session as an active process of self-discovery. During the entrainment, patients may experience involuntary movements, such as gentle rocking or undulations along the spine, or spontaneous deep breathing. These are signs of the body releasing tension. Following a session, people commonly report feeling relaxation, increased energy, or a deeper connection to their body.