The five essential components
The Gonstead MethodThe 5 Components of the Gonstead Method
Trilogy Chiropractic has embraced the Gonstead Method as our primary approach to chiropractic care, ensuring that our patients in Lakewood Ranch, FL, receive the most comprehensive, precise, and personalized treatment possible. The Gonstead Technique, developed by Dr. Clarence Gonstead, is distinguished by its meticulous and systematic approach to chiropractic analysis and adjustment, encompassing five essential components:
X-Ray Analysis
The Gonstead Method relies heavily on Full Spine X-Rays, including anterior-posterior (A-P) and lateral views. These X-rays use a 14″ x 36″ film size, capturing the patient’s anatomy from ischium to occiput. Full Spine X-rays offer several advantages over sectional films, such as lower radiation exposure, accurate vertebral count, full spinal contour representation for posture analysis under axial weight-bearing conditions, and the ability to identify problems beyond the chief complaint.
Palpation
Both Static and Motion Palpation are utilized in Gonstead Chiropractic to pinpoint areas of involvement precisely. Static Palpation is the “hands-on” part of the examination, indicating changes in contour, tone, texture, and temperature in the patient. Motion Palpation is used to determine a subluxation and its listing.
Instrumentation
Gonstead Method chiropractors utilize a dual probe instrument, such as the Nervoscope or Delta-T, to obtain a bilateral temperature comparison of the spine and locate areas of inflammation. The readings from these instruments indicate the presence of subluxations, their correction progress, and when correction has been achieved.
Visualization
In the Gonstead System, Visualization begins as soon as the patient enters the office. We carefully observe differences in height between the ears, shoulders, and hips, as well as assess posture and gait. This information is valuable in confirming findings from X-Rays and Palpation.
Case Management
Although never used in a “cookbook” fashion, understanding patient health problems helps us determine where a patient needs to be adjusted. Symptoms can help separate the two parts of the Autonomic Nervous System (Sympathetic and Parasympathetic) and aid us in applying a specific adjustment.
By correlating findings from these five components, Gonstead Method chiropractors can precisely locate areas of subluxation and deliver targeted adjustments for optimal results. As Dr. Gonstead emphasized, three adjustments on the wrong vertebral segment could cause a subluxation; therefore, specificity is paramount.
The Gonstead Method focuses on the dynamics of the intervertebral disc as the underlying cause of subluxations and resulting neurological dysfunction. This approach positions Gonstead doctors as “disc doctors,” specializing in addressing issues at their root cause.
Trilogy Chiropractic has chosen the Gonstead System because it offers the most comprehensive and effective approach to chiropractic care. By combining thorough analysis, precise adjustments, and focusing on the intervertebral disc as the source of subluxation, we can provide our patients with the highest quality of care and the best possible outcomes.
We aim to help patients achieve optimal health and wellness through specific, scientific chiropractic care. The Gonstead System aligns perfectly with this mission, enabling us to deliver personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each individual. We are confident that utilizing this renowned technique will make a profound difference in the lives of those we serve in the Lakewood Ranch community and beyond.
