What Is Gonstead Chiropractic Technique

Dr. Gonstead developed a complete chiropractic method of biomechanical analysis for precise and specific chiropractic adjustments. His research and results developed over the course of his 55 years in clinical practice, continue to be utilized and advanced through other trained chiropractors treating patients today.

The Gonstead technique goes through five specific criteria when working with a patient. These five criteria consist of:
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1. Visualization — Visualization is a way to look for subtle changes in your posture and movement which could indicate any problems.

2. Instrumentation —A handheld instrument is guided down each side of the spine that detects an uneven distribution of heat along the spine, which can indicate possible inflammation of the spinal cord.

3. Static Palpation — This is the process of feeling (or palpating) your spine in a stationary (or static) position. Feeling for the presence of swelling (or edema), tenderness and any abnormal texture or tightness in the muscles and other tissues of your back is the main objective.

4. Motion Palpation — This process involves feeling the spine while moving and bending it at various angles. This process determines how easy or difficult each segment in your spine moves in different directions.

5. X-Ray Analysis — X-ray films are used to visualize the entire structure of your spine. This is helpful in evaluating posture, joint, and disc integrity, vertebral misalignments and ruling out any pathologies, or recent fractures that may be present or contributing to the patient’s condition.

Using these five specific criteria to analyze the biomechanical imbalance in the spine, a specific plan of care can be developed. When the plan of care has been reviewed with the patient, the adjustment process can begin. A specific adjustment can be made based on the above analysis by using a variety of applications.

The most common application is through a hands-on precise adjustment to provide a specific and accurate correction. However, even though hands-on adjustments are the most common and most recognized form of chiropractic adjusting, adjustments can also be performed with low force instrumentation. Both can yield a specific, precise, highly effective adjustment, and is extremely gentle, painless, and safe.

Our chiropractors have had years of experience providing treatment to patients with successful outcomes. We strive for clinical excellence for every patient to receive results that will improve their life.