Within the Chiropractic profession there are many different techniques a Chiropractor can use, the Gonstead method is just one of those techniques.

Dr Clarence Gonstead developed the Gonstead technique through extensive clinical research and observations over 55 years. Having a background in engineering Dr Gonstead used this knowledge to firstly analyse spinal biomechanics, then after designed ways to thoroughly analyse these biomechanics. Now over 100 years later many still say the Gonstead method is the most complete biomechanical analysis used by today’s Chiropractors.

A Gonstead Chiropractor conducts a thorough analysis of your spine using a variety of tools to detect the presence spinal dysfunction known as the vertebral subluxation complex.

History – Your Chiropractor will take a thorough history of your presenting complaint and include your overall health and medical history. This can assist in determining if you are a Chiropractic case.

Visualization – Visualization is a way to cross reference all the other findings. Your chiropractor is an expert in looking for subtle changes in your posture and movement which could indicate any problems.

Instrumentation – The instrument of choice in the Gonstead System is the Nervoscope. The Nervoscope detects uneven distributions of heat along the spine which can be indicative of inflammation and nerve pressure. This instrument is guided down the length of your back and feels like two fingers gliding down each side of your spine.

Static Palpation – This is simply the process of feeling (or palpating) your spine in a stationary (or static) position. Your chiropractor will feel for the presence of swelling (or oedema), tenderness and any abnormal texture or tightness in the muscles and other tissues of your back.

Motion Palpation – This process involves feeling the spine while moving and bending it at various angles. This enables the chiropractor to determine how easily or difficult each segment in your spine moves in different directions.

X-Ray Analysis – Taken when clinically indicated, X-rays enable your doctor to visualise the entire structure of your spine. This is helpful in evaluating posture, joint and disc integrity, vertebral alignment and ruling out any pathologies, or recent fractures that may be present or contributing to the patient’s condition. These radiographs are taken in the standing, weight-bearing position to fully substantiate the examination findings.

When all this information is combined, a trained Gonstead Chiropractor will immediately let you know if your health situation is a Chiropractic case. If your case is a Chiropractic case, the trained Gonstead Chiropractors goal is to utilise the dynamics of the effectual Gonstead specific adjustment to get you back to optimal health as quickly as possible, with no “pre-planned” treatment programs.