Gonstead Chiropractic a Specific Biomechanical approach
The Gonstead Method goes far beyond a simple system of back cracking. Rather, it is a scientific method of spinal examination and care. The Gonstead system of analysis includes listening to a thorough case history regarding symptoms, mechanism of injury and asking questions. Next, we visually inspect the entire spine followed by palpation and motion analysis. This often reveals edema (inflammation) and fixation. Finally, we use thermography and x-ray analysis before specific spinal adjustments are provided.
Gonstead procedures are the result of extensive clinical research by Clarence S. Gonstead, founder of the world famous Gonstead Clinic of Chiropractic in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin and his associates. Doctor Gonstead’s 55 years of continuous practice and over four million chiropractic adjustments resulted in what many consider the most complete method of biomechanical analysis available for use by today’s Doctor of Chiropractic.
The Gonstead Concept of chiropractic begins with a basic biomechanical principle of physics. Every engineer, architect and craftsman understands the importance of a proper foundation. For this insures durability and long life. Even a slight change or shift in the foundation can result in a deviation of the structure and its collapse. These misalignments can cause pressure on the discs that separate the vertebrae.
Level Foundation Theory
Dr Gonstead believed that the condition of the disc was the key to the patient’s health problem. Vertebra can become misaligned either from the cumulative effects of several minor episodes or from a single accident. Nature frequently can cope with these jolts to the spinal column without assistance. Sometimes, though, vertebrae shifted from their normal position can be too much for nature to deal with effectively. When there is misalignment of a vertebra, there is uneven pressure on the disc causing it to swell and protrude. (One often hears this referred to as a slipped, herniated, or ruptured disc.)
Chiropractors call this condition SUBLUXATION when it results in the pinching or compressing of the nerves that run through that area. These compressed nerves often become inflamed and impede the proper transmission of impulses to the section of the body controlled by these nerves. A seemingly endless list of ailments and pain may be brought about by these subluxations.
Misaligned vertebrae are easily located particularly in the upper portion of the spinal column. However, less easily located are the subluxations in the sacrum and pelvis. The ability to recognize and correct these misalignments forms an integral part of the Gonstead Method. Dr. Gonstead observed that patients experienced only temporary or limited relief when the foundation was not corrected. He viewed this as unacceptable and set about to find the source of nerve pressure. His aim was correcting the root cause for greater lasting results.
Using these principles as a foundation, Dr. Gonstead embarked upon a course of scientific research coupled with practical experience that spanned half a century. He evolved his method of chiropractic spinal adjusting and advanced the profession. Every chiropractic case presents a different combination of misaligned vertebrae. Following in the footsteps of Dr G, chiropractors trained in his system can achieve the same consistent results and help sick people get well without drugs or surgery.
For more information on the Gonstead System or to find a Gonstead Trained Chiropractor in your area go to www.gonstead.com If you’re ready to see if Gonstead Chiropractic is right for you click the button to book your first visit today.