When choosing a chiropractic doctor, there are many different factors patients should consider. It’s important to consider the amount of experience the chiropractor has, where the chiropractor received training, what procedures the chiropractor specializes in, and how the chiropractor interacts with patients. It is also important to understand what techniques the chiropractor practices. Many patients don’t realize there are many various chiropractic techniques, and each one of the techniques differ. These chiropractic techniques include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Activator technique
• Advanced biostructural correction (ABC)
• Applied kinesiology
• Diversified technique
• Extremity manipulation/adjustment technique
• Gonstead technique
• Neuromuscular reeducation (NMR)
• Palmer package technique
• Thomas terminal point technique
• Webster technique

While each of these techniques has a history of deep research, they all differ slightly. It’s important for patients to understand which technique is right for their specific needs. This blog post focuses on the specifics of the Gonstead chiropractic technique.

What Is the Gonstead Chiropractic Technique?

The Gonstead chiropractic technique is focused around the idea that the  body has a foundation, upon which every other function revolves. For chiropractors that subscribe to this technique, the foundation of the skeletal system is the pelvic girdle. In other words, when the pelvic girdle (hip bones and lower back bones) are in place, then the rest of the bones will be level and stable as well. On the other hand, when the hips and lower back are off kilter, it’s possible that other bones are off kilter as well; if this is the case,  the patient will experience pain and discomfort.

When the body is out of balance there are a wide range of ailments and problems that arise. Some of these conditions include back pain, neck pain, subluxation, misaligned vertebrae, and spinal problems, to name a few.

The main principle of the Gonestead chiropractic technique is focusing on the ability to both recognize, and correct, any misalignments that stem from a disrupted skeletal foundation.

How Chiropractors Use this Treatment

When following the Gonstead chiropractic technique, chiropractors will address the root of the problem, rather than simply addressing the area of concern. For example, if a patient has a misaligned vertebra, it’s possible to simply get that vertebra adjusted. While this approach may produce temporary relief, it may only produce limited relief. The goal is to correct the source of the problem by adjusting the areas in the pelvic grid that may be causing or contributing to the problem.

Other Treatment Methods

The Gonstead chiropractic treatment method is one of many chiropractic approaches. At Horst Chiropractic, Dr. Nathen Horst examines the patient’s area of concern and applies the best technique for each individual patient. For more information about this particular treatment method, or to schedule a spinal adjustment appointment, contact Horst Chiropractic. Dr. Horst is able to answer questions about the Gonstead chiropractic treatment method, determine if the patient is an appropriate candidate for the technique, and recommend the appropriate chiropractic technique for each patient.