Methodology

The Gonstead Chiropractor conducts a thorough examination of your spine using a variety of analysis tools to detect the presence of spinal dysfunction known as Vertebral Subluxation Complex.

History - Your Chiropractor will take a detailed history of your presenting complaint and include your overall health and medical history. This can assist in determining if your condition is a Chiropractic case.

Visualization - Your Chiropractor is an expert in looking for subtle changes in your posture and movement which can be indicate the presence of problems.

Instrumentation - The instrument used by Gonstead Chiropractors is called the Nervoscope. This instrument is guided down either side of your spine and can detect uneven distribution of heat which may be indicative of inflammation and nerve pressure.

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

Motion Palpation - This process involves feeling the spine while moving and bending it. This enables the Chiropractor to determine the ability or inability for each of the vertebrae to move in different directions.

X-Ray Analysis - When clinically indicated an X-Ray may be taken to enable your doctor to visualize the entire structure of your spine. This is helpful in evaluating posture, joint and disc integrity, vertebral alignment as well as ruling out any pathologies or recent fractures that may be present or contributing to the patient's condition. These radiographs are taken in a standing, weight-bearing position.

When all the information is collated, a trained Gonstead Doctor will determine if your health condition is a Chiropractic problem. If not, a referral to the appropriate health provider will be made. If your case is a Chiropractic case, the trained Gonstead practitioner's goal is to deliver a highly skilled and accurate Gonstead adjustment to the right bone to get you back on the road to health as quickly as possible. With no "pre-planned" treatment programs, adequate time between consultations is given for healing and stabilization. One of Dr. Gonsteads most well known quotes was "Find the subluxation, correct it, and then leave it alone".

A great deal of skill and knowledge is required to perform a Gonstead adjustment. Your Gonstead Chiropractor has spent many years developing a proficient level of expertise. As well as the 5 years tertiary study, there are post-graduate seminars, workshops and private study.