The Gonstead System
The Gonstead System of chiropractic is a systematic analysis of the spine using five different criteria to locate and identify any joint restrictions in the body called subluxations. Subluxations cause nerve interference or miscommunication within the nervous system. The five step Gonstead system of analysis includes visualization, instrumentation, static palpation, motion palpation, and X-ray analysis. Each step is crucial to accurately determine the primary issues in the spine. This process helps limit the UNNECESSARY findings of any secondary or compensating subluxations that have developed from chronic malposition or primary misalignments in the spine. The Gonstead System was founded by Clarence S. Gonstead and remains the gold standard among all techniques in chiropractic care.
“Find the subluxation. Accept it where you find it. Correct it. Leave it alone.”
Visualization
Visualization utilizes anatomical landmark discrepancies to analyze the posture of the body. A Gonstead chiropractor focuses on these to determine asymmetries which could be contributing to or compensating for problems in the body. Key landmarks in the visualization process includes the occiput, mastoid process, acromion, spine of the scapula, inferior border of the scapula, iliac crest, gluteal folds, and medial and lateral malleolus. Visualization is obtained from both a coronal and sagittal view.
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. The nervoscope doesn’t tell the doctor exactly where the current issue is in the spine, it helps the doctor narrow down the area of the spine that has correlating heat discrepancies.
Static Palpation
This is the process of feeling (or palpating) along the spine in a stationary position. Your chiropractor will be feeling for any abnormal textures such as tightness, edema, or swelling along the spine indicating possible joint restriction. Static palpation is completed with two fingers along the outside of the spine along the spinous process of the vertebrae.
Motion Palpation
This is the art of feeling the spine through different ranges of motion. Motion palpation gives the chiropractor the necessary information to know which angle or direction the joint isn’t moving. Many times the doctor will locate multiple segments throughout the spine that are restricted.
You will notice your chiropractor take two fingers and run them down your spine until he gets to a spinous process. With light pressure your chiropractor will then guide you through specific ranges of motion comparing flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral bending of that segment.
X-Ray Analysis
X-ray films enable your doctor 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. These full-spine radiographs are taken in the standing, weight-bearing position to fully substantiate the examination findings. When necessary, digital X-rays are performed at the office at the end of your first visit.
