I see you practice a technique called the Gonstead method of chiropractic. What is it and what attracted you to it?

Gonstead technique is named for Clarence Gonstead, a titan of chiropractic development. I’d been adjusted many times when I received my first Gonstead adjustment from Dr. Richard Thornton, a Gonstead chiropractor who’d been practicing for 50 years at that time, and his adjustments were so easy and comfortable, and each one just felt so innately right in my body! My first thought was, “I want to be able to do that!” So I began training in the Gonstead system. I was drawn by the fact that Gonstead has a safe track record throughout history. It’s a relatively gentle technique, and it’s extremely safe. Clarence Gonstead always stressed not twisting, torqueing or forcing the adjustment. Even as a student, I knew I wanted to be able to help newborns and elders, everyone, and I liked that Gonstead is safe and effective for everyone.

So what’s different about Gonstead technique?

Gonstead technique employs a 4-part system of analysis and correction which includes 1. examination of the spine, 2. motion palpation 3. heat scans of the spine to locate nerve pressure, and 4. X-ray to determine exactly where the problem resides, and 5. careful correction of the problem. The adjustments are specific and relatively gentle, done completely by hand. Many chiropractors use instruments like an Activator instead of or in addition to their hands. I understand some people prefer that, but no instrument is as sensitive as the nerves in the human hand, and I like being able to feel and control the adjustment with my hands. Because Gonstead technique is so specific, patients usually get results faster and heal more completely, even with long-standing issues.

You mentioned you take x-rays. Are x-rays always necessary for patients?

I don’t take x-rays of pregnant women, infants or young children, but x-ray is an important part of it because patients often have structural anomalies, injuries, fractures, birth defects, arthritis and degeneration. All that stuff shows up on x-ray, but if you don’t take the picture, you won’t know what’s going on, so I need to know that those things are there in order to correct the problem and not make things worse.

Do all chiropractors take x-rays?

Many do not, and in my opinion, it’s taking a risk. Taking x-rays is like illuminating a dark room. Without them, often times you’re in the dark, guessing, and I won’t guess with your health. I’ve employed the Gonstead method of chiropractic to help patients of all ages heal from a wide variety of physical problems.