The Gonstead Method
The Gonstead Method developed from the work of Dr. Clarence Gonstead. He practiced in Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin from 1923-1978. He focused on specificity and precision in analyzing and adjusting the segments of the spine. While there are hundreds of chiropractic techniques, this Method proves to be difficult for the Doctor to learn, but worthwhile to practice and master. It is the gold standard for adjusting the segments of the spine. It focuses on the segments and the spinal discs without twisting or shearing the spine, unlike many other segment chiropractic techniques. The adjustment, the correction of the spine, can be safely modified for infants, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Dr. John has engaged in significant graduate and post-graduate study in the Gonstead Method.
- The Gonstead Method uses 5 criteria to analyze the segments of the spine on the spinal discs:
- motion palpation, static palpation, visualization, instrumentation, x-ray imaging.
- The 5 criteria are used to find spinal misalignments (spinal subluxations).
- Spinal subluxations affect the movement of the segments of the spine, and the pressure in the spinal discs.
- Uneven pressure on spinal discs can cause them to swell or protrude.
- Swollen spinal discs put physical and chemical pressure on nerve roots and other soft tissue structures. This MAY or MAY NOT cause pain.
- Physical or chemical pressure on nerve roots SPEED UP, SLOW DOWN, or DISTORT the information going up AND down the spinal cord = IMPEDED COMMUNICATION.
- Impeded communication between the brain and body leads to LESS THAN OPTIMAL FUNCTION.
If you would like more information, contact Dr. John at (201) 677-3600
There are several Gonstead Method organizations that provide information to the general public about their history, method, technique, and benefits:
Gonstead Clinical Studies Society – click here to learn more about Gonstead history
Gonstead Metholodology Institute – click here to learn more about the Gonstead Method criteria