Clarence Gonstead and the Gonstead Technique

Clarence Gonstead and the Gonstead Technique

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Clarence Gonstead 

Born July 23, 1898

Willow Lake, South Dakota 

Died October 2, 1978 (aged 80)

Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin 

Resting place Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin 

Alma mater Palmer School of Chiropractic 

Occupation Chiropractor Teacher 

Years active 1923-1978 
 

Early life

Clarence Gonstead was born in Willow Lake, South Dakota on July 23, 1898, the son of Carl and Sarah Gonstead. A few years later, his family moved to a dairy farm in Primrose, Wisconsin. As a boy, Clarence was interested in repairing tractors and early automobiles, something that would come in handy later in life.

At the age of 19, Gonstead was bedridden with rheumatoid arthritis in his left knee so severe he could not even stand to have the bedsheets touch his knee.[1] After exhausting all other medical methods, his aunt sought help from a chiropractor named Dr. J. B. Olson in Madison, WI. After some adjustments, young Clarence could walk again. This inspired Gonstead to become a chiropractor himself, to get sick people get well. He would later enroll in the Palmer School of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa.

Gonstead continued work as an automotive engineer in Madison, WI and later Racine, WI. The job allowed him to save enough money to pay for school but more importantly, it taught him basic mechanical engineering concepts that he would later apply to his chiropractic practice.

While enrolled in the Palmer School of Chiropractic, Dr. Gonstead became a member of the chiropractic fraternity Delta Sigma Chi, a professional fraternity whose expansive membership includes many of the leaders in chiropractic [1]. Gonstead earned a Doctor of Chiropractic degree in 1923 and returned to his native Wisconsin. He would first practice with Dr. Olson, the man who inspired him to become a chiropractor, before establishing a practice in Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin. His younger brother Merton would join his practice in 1929 for a few years before starting his own practice in Monroe, Wisconsin and later Beloit, Wisconsin. He would remain a sole-practitioner for the next twenty years.

Gonstead Technique

Dr. Gonstead's method of chiropractic practice was an extension of his training at the Palmer School of Chiropractic. While Gonstead was a student, Dr. Palmer began promoting the Neurocalometer (NCM), a chiropractic invention of Dossa Evins, DC [2] to find and monitor subluxations in the spine in addition to using X-ray to determine the vertebral misalignment. In practice, Dr. Gonstead assisted in various efforts to improve the quality of these two instruments.

For the NCM, it started in 1940's when Dr. Gonstead became a consultant for Electronic Development Laboratories (EDL), Inc. EDL made the original Nervoscope, a competitor device to the Palmer endorsed NCM. Over the years, Dr. Gonstead helped the company define the device's sensitivity parameters and function. He also worked with various X-ray companies to optimize full-spine 14x36 X-ray exposure, primarily the use of split screens to account for varying patient density on the lateral film.[3]

Dr. Gonstead is recognized for applying basic mechanical principles first learned as an auto mechanic to analyzing the spine by using weight-bearing X-ray films. The early chiropractic profession, along with the medical profession, marveled over the X-ray invention. Chiropractors were particularly interested in using the machine to find the subluxation but without a definite answer, chiropractors became split on its value and clinical application. That was not the case for Dr. Gonstead. He recognized that a number of conditions displayed consistent spinal patterns that violated basic mechanical engineering principles. As these ideas matured, they became known as the Level Foundation principle and the Gonstead Disc Concept.

The Level Foundation principle states that any deviation of the spine by a particular segment away from vertical straight is an area of potential misalignment; any deviation of the spine by a particular segment that returns the spine to vertical straight is an area of compensation. The Gonstead Disc Concept attempted to redefine the chiropractic term subluxation. The prevailing hypothesis as taught by D.D and B. J. Palmer was that the subluxation was the result of a vertebral bone causing nerve pressure. According to the Gonstead Disc Concept, the intervertebral disc, the spongy material between the vertebral bones, is the primary culprit of nerve pressure.[4]

Along with developing his own technique in chiropractic, Dr. Gonstead is recognized for his motto: "Find the subluxation, accept it where you find it, correct it, then leave it alone." Following the Gonstead Disc Concept, the adjustment's line-of-drive follows the disc plane line. The result is a distinctive cavitation that characterizes Gonstead style adjustments from more rotational vectored adjustments common with osteopathic manipulation and chiropractic's Diversified technique. To optimize disc plane line adjusting vectors, Dr. Gonstead had local cabinet makers make his own adjusting tables, later called the Gonstead Set. He also worked with chiropractic table manufacturer Zenith in designing other pieces.[5] In summary, his method consists of five evaluative criteria (visualization, instrumentation, static palpation, motion palpation, and X-ray analysis[6][7]

Due to Dr. Gonstead's clinical success and his ability to attract patients from 2 states away, a few chiropractors got together asked Dr. Gonstead to teach them what he was doing. This eventually became the Gonstead Seminar. Dr. Gonstead's seminar program was popular among chiropractors, but it took on greater significance when it helped reorient the failing Palmer School School of Chiropractic. Starting in the early 1930s after Gonstead's graduation, the school narrowed its scope of adjustment by teaching Upper Cervical Specific, also known as Hole-In-One (HIO) which focused on C1-C2. For nearly thirty years, graduates of PSC were taught only the upper cervical adjustment, with little education in full-spine adjustment. 

When B.J. Palmer died in 1961, B.J.'s son and successor at PSC David D. Palmer invoked a number of educational changes. One of them included changing the school's curriculum to full-spine chiropractic. To assist in the change, the school worked with Dr. Gonstead and his staff to begin teaching the material at PSC in 1963.[8]

Reputation

Word of Dr. Gonstead's talent spread quickly in Wisconsin. Dr. Gonstead's first office was one of the first chiropractic offices that was not a home office. It was located above the bank building in downtown Mount Horeb.[9] In 1939, Dr. Gonstead built the first Gonstead Chiropractic Clinic in downtown Mount Horeb. Dr. Gonstead worked six and half days a week, adjusting 80-100 patients a day on average.[1] Later in 1964, he opened the second Gonstead Clinic of Chiropractic just outside of Mt. Horeb. The modern facility with Norwegian motifs was 29,000 square feet (2,700 m2), with a reception area for 110 patients, 11 adjusting rooms, a complete chemistry laboratory, research facilities, and seminar rooms. By then, the clinic was caring for 300 and 400 patients per day. The next year, 1965, a full-service motel was constructed next to the clinic to accommodate out of town patients and chiropractors attending his seminar. Limousine service was established to shuttle patients from nearby Madison's airport to the motel.

Colleagues began visiting Dr. Gonstead to observe his methods beginning in the late 1940s. In 1954, a formal program started that led to an organized seminar series. Over the next few years, a group of professional teachers helped to organize a formal teaching system leading to an ongoing seminar program that offers classes across the country.[8]

Later life

During his career, Dr. Gonstead worked 6.5 days per week for 54 years of his professional life and is estimated to have treated two million patients.[10] In 1974, Dr. Gonstead sold the clinic and Gonstead Seminars to Drs. Alex and Doug Cox. He died on October 2, 1978, at the age of 80. His clinic continues operation under the ownership of the non-profit C.S. Gonstead Chiropractic Foundation.[11]

References
1.^ a b http://www.gonstead.com/index.php?content_type=general_content&content=3

2.^ Moore J (1995). "The neurocalometer: watershed in the evolution of a new profession.". Chiropr Hist 15 (2): 51–4

3.^ Amman, M (2007) "The Machines and Tools of Clarence Gonstead, DC." Chiropr Hist 27 (2): 55-58.

4.^ Herbst, RW. Gonstead Chiropractic Science and Art. Sci-Chi Publications. 1980

5.^ Amman, M (2007) "The Machines and Tools of Clarence Gonstead, DC." Chiropr Hist 27 (2):55-58.

6.^ R. Cooperstein and B. Gleberzon. Technique Systems in Chiropractic. Elvesier. pp. 164-165

7.^ The Gonstead System

8.^ a b Amman, M (2008) "A Profession Seeking Clinical Competency." Chiropr Hist 28 (2): 81-91

9.^ C.S. Gonstead and the Gonstead Clinic

10.^ Chiropractic is a science so long as it is specific

11.^ C.S. Gonstead Chiropractic Foundation

[edit] Other sourcesAdams, Barry (February 14, 2007). "Karakahl on the Block". The Wisconsin State Journal (Madison, WI).http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-30453489_ITM. 
[edit] Related readingHerbst, RW. Gonstead Chiropractic Science and Art. Sci-Chi Publications. 1980
Plaugher G (ed). Textbook of Clinical Chiropractic. Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins. 1993
Anrig C, Plaugher G (eds). Pediatric Chiropractic. Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins. 1997
[edit] External linksGonstead Clinical Studies Society official website
The History of Clarence S. Gonstead, D.C.
[hide]v ·d ·eChiropractic (ICD-10-PCS 9) 
 

 
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Here at Roman Family Chiropractic we utilize the exact same system that Dr. Gonstead taught and used.

Back, Neck and Headache Relief Clinic

The Basic Principles of Gonstead 

Chiropractic


The Gonstead Concept of chiropractic begins with a basic biomechanical principle of physics. Every engineer, architect, builder and carpenter knows the importance of a proper foundation in constructing a building, for this insures durability and long life. Changes or shifts in the foundation can cause a great amount of deviation in the top part of the structure and, perhaps, ultimately, its collapse.

Our body’s foundation is formed by the pelvic girdle. When this bony structure consisting of hip bones and the lower bones of the back is level, there will be maximum balance and stability in the spinal column. When the pelvic girdle or any of the vertebrae (bones making up the spinal column) become tilted or rotated out of their proper position, dramatic changes may occur in the body.

Misalignments can cause pressure on the discs that separate the vertebrae. The condition of the disc is the key to the patient’s health problem in many cases. Vertebra can become misaligned either from the cumulative effects of several minor episodes or from a single accident. Nature frequently is able to cope with these jolts to the spinal column without assistance. But, sometimes vertebrae tilted or rotated out of their normal position can be too much for nature to deal with effectively.

We need to understand that the discs are really pads between the vertebrae and consist of a spongy substance surrounded by fibers of cartilage. When there is misalignment of a vertebra, there is uneven pressure on the disc causing it to swell and protrude. This condition is often referred to as a slipped, herniated or ruptured disc.

Chiropractors call this condition a SUBLUXATION when it results in the pinching or compressing of the nerves that run through that particular area. These compressed nerves often become inflamed and impede the proper transmission of impulses to the section of the body controlled by these nerves. A seemingly endless list of ailments and pain may be brought about by these subluxations. Examples are: Low Back Pain, Neck Pain and Headaches.

Generally, misaligned vertebrae in the spine are easily recognized, particularly those in the upper portion of the vertebral column. However, less easily found and often overlooked are misalignments in the foundation or lower portions of the spine.


The Gonstead practitioner specializes in recognizing and correcting these misalignments. For example: When the lower portion of the spinal column has misaligned vertebra, the body tries to keep itself and its skeleton upright and straight. Often it compensates by causing a vertebra above to become misaligned. 

If just the top misaligned vertebra was adjusted, in cases where additional vertebrae are misaligned, only limited relief could result. This would not be getting to the source of the trouble. For complete and lasting results, all of the misaligned vertebrae must be identified and then a program can be initiated to restore them to their normal position. Every chiropractic case presents a different combination of misaligned vertebrae. 

Roman Chiropractic offers pain relief care, corrective care and maintenance care. Pain relief usually takes 6-8 visits. Corrective care can take up to 20-24 visits depending on the severity of the case. Regular maintenance is recommended for all patients.

Excerpted from www.Gonstead.com

Back, Neck and Headache Relief Clinic

Next Free Spinal Screening: Ketchum YMCA in the lobby: February 14, 2012 10:30 a.m. - p.m. If you are in the downtown Los Angeles area, stop on by! 

Why should you choose a 

Gonstead Chiropractor? 

 The Gonstead Chiropractor goes beyond what many chiropractors consider a spinal assessment by conducting a thorough analysis of your spine using five criteria to detect the presence of the vertebral subluxation complex. 

Visualization – Visualization is a way to cross reference all the other findings. Your chiropractor is an expert in looking for subtle changes in your posture and movement which could indicate any problems. 

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 caused by a pinched nerve  This instrument is guided down the length of your back and feels like two fingers gliding down each side of your spine. 

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

Motion Palpation – This is our way of analyzing the health and motion of the disc. This enables the chiropractor to determine how flexible each segment in your spine moves in different directions. 

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. 

excerpted from www.gonstead.com