What is the Gonstead Method?

Our very own Dr. Victor Sage is trained in the groundbreaking approach to chiropractic known as the Gonstead Method. If you are looking for a Gonstead chiropractor in Newtown Square, PA, look no further. But what is the Gonstead Method and how did it come to be?

Clarence S. Gonstead, a trailblazer in the chiropractic field, was the founder of the Gonstead System of chiropractic. With a background in chiropractic and foundations in mechanical engineering, Clarence S. Gonstead created the ‘foundation principle’, based on studying the spinal system in a more detailed way. He believed the twisting and rotation of the spine in most chiropractic practice was harmful to the patient with many potentially harmful consequences. To avoid these consequences, Gonstead decided to develop his very own system.

Gonstead used his experience in mechanical engineering and chiropractic to develop new chiropractic equipment to facilitate his technique. His analysis included x-ray analysis, instrumentation, static palpation, motion palpation, and visualization to find the exact location of a vertebral subluxation. Gonstead’s principle was “find the subluxation, accept it where you find it, correct it, and leave it alone.” Essentially, he was saying ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’

The Gonstead System of Chiropractic remains the ultimate ‘hands-on’ spinal adjustment technique and is still one of the foremost chiropractic techniques today. After Dr. Gonstead’s death in 1978, his method of chiropractic continued on in his legacy.

Today, Gonstead specialists are taught the lessons and utilization of this procedure and case management system. Past the eight years of chiropractic and school training ordinarily expected to become a Chiropractor, followed by national and state board examinations to be a licensed Chiropractor, the Gonstead practitioner has spent additional time attending Gonstead Seminars to help perfect their application of chiropractic within the Gonstead System.