Betterton Family Chiropractic
What is Gonstead?
The Gonstead System of chiropractic care was developed by Dr. Clarence S. Gonstead of Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin, beginning in 1923. Over a 55-year career, Dr. Gonstead refined this unique approach into one of the most detailed and precise chiropractic systems in the world.
The Gonstead System emphasizes specificity in both examination and treatment. Rather than addressing the spine generally, Gonstead practitioners focus on identifying and correcting the exact spinal segment involved. By isolating individual inflamed or impinged nerve roots—often the underlying cause of many health disorders—Gonstead chiropractors are able to address the root of the problem. Using hands-only techniques, they relieve this nerve interference, allowing the body to heal itself and restore proper function.
A Gonstead examination is thorough and highly specific. It may include a detailed health history, instrumentation, static palpation, motion palpation, visualization, neurological testing, and, when indicated, full-spine X-rays taken in a standing, weight-bearing position. The need for X-rays is determined during the functional examination. The precise hands-on correction used in the Gonstead System is known as an adjustment.
Instrumentation
One of the tools used during the examination is an instrument called a Temposcope. The Temposcope is gently run along the spine from the base of the neck to the lower back. The Gonstead doctor is assessing for areas of increased heat, which may indicate inflammation of nerves, joints, discs, or the surrounding soft tissues at specific spinal levels.
Static Palpation
A Gonstead doctor uses their hands to passively feel each joint of the spine and extremities. They assess for swelling, tenderness, muscle spasm, and changes in muscle tone or strength. Any variation from normal findings may indicate stress or injury within the body.
Motion Palpation
Using the hands and fingers, the Gonstead doctor evaluates how the joints of the spine and extremities move. Joints are assessed for proper motion and stability. Restricted movement or excessive motion is considered abnormal and may signal a problem area.
Visualization
The Gonstead doctor observes how you walk, move, bend, and twist in specific directions. This allows the doctor to evaluate posture, balance, and overall body mechanics to determine whether they are within normal limits.
Neurological Testing
Specific neurological tests are used to assess how well the nerves and joints are functioning. These tests help determine whether nerve communication is optimal throughout the body.
X-Ray Analysis
AP and lateral full-spine standing X-rays are often taken as part of the Gonstead examination. Young children and pregnant women are not X-rayed unless unusual circumstances require it. These weight-bearing X-rays provide an accurate view of the spine and posture in their natural state. They allow the doctor to evaluate spinal alignment, pelvic positioning, disc spacing, and overall spinal health. The X-rays serve as a blueprint, helping the doctor determine the precise angle and direction needed to correct each individual subluxation.
Adjustment
To precisely correct a subluxated vertebra, the Gonstead doctor uses specific equipment and hands-on techniques designed to deliver an efficient, controlled, and comfortable adjustment.