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An Introduction to the Art and Science of Chiropractic Technique
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Students beginning their chiropractic studies can look forward to learning a wide range of techniques with which to locate, analyze and correct vertebral subluxations. In addition to understanding the difference between terms like Gonstead and Toggle Recoil, D.C.s-to-be will develop a deep appreciation for the precise art and science of the chiropractic adjustment needed to establish successful careers.
Read on for an introduction to chiropractic technique with insights from Sherman College’s Dr. Ron R. Castellucci, chair of the Chiropractic Technique Department.
Doctors of Chiropractic Use Diversified Technique
“Many chiropractors mistakenly believe Diversified technique to be an assortment of non-specified manual adjustment techniques with no origin,” says Dr. Castellucci. “On the contrary,” he explains, “Diversified technique has its roots with BJ Palmer as he was experimenting with various methods of adjusting the spine.”
Diversified technique is as old as the practice itself (although it was later modified and refined by Dr. Otto Reinert of Logan College). It involves short, specific, powerful thrusts delivered by hand that helps realign the spine. It is one of the most widely used chiropractic techniques today.
Gonstead Technique Helps Chiropractors Correct Subluxations
The Gonstead Technique was first developed by the famous doctor of chiropractic, Dr. Clarence Gonstead, who was a student and contemporary of B.J. Palmer. During the 1920s, Gonstead established one of the most successful chiropractic practices in history. Working long hours, he saw as many as 300 to 400 patients a day.
During the course of his extraordinary and prolific chiropractic career, Gonstead developed his own technique. Named in his honor, the Gonstead technique emphasizes the importance of the spine’s fundamental alignment. Dr. Gonstead noticed that misalignments caused the body to compensate along other points of the spine He developed the concept of “primary” vs “secondary” subluxations, which are analyzed and corrected differently.
As a pioneer and innovator, Dr. Gonstead also developed the Hi-Lo and knee-chest tables to help facilitate specific adjustments. “Chiropractors adjust a patient seated in a special chair or lying on his or her side because of the contributions of Clarence Gonstead” Dr. Castellucci explains.
Chiropractors use Toggle Recoil to Align the Bones of the Neck
“Toggle Recoil, developed by B.J. Palmer, is one of the original techniques in the chiropractic profession,” says Dr. Castellucci. It was a technique taught in early chiropractic colleges, and because of its effectiveness, is still an enduring part of chiropractic education today.
“The focus of toggle recoil,” Castellucci explains, “is the upper cervical spine, specifically the atlas and axis (1st and 2nd bones in the neck). The construct is that everything in the body is controlled by the brain via nerves that pass through the spine; yet, all of these nerves must exit the skull passing through the atlas and axis. If these two bones are misaligned (subluxated), the entire nervous system will be interfered with and the entire body adversely affected.”
Chiropractors Use Analytical Procedures to Identify Subluxations
Before using any of these techniques a chiropractor must first evaluate the patient carefully to determine which technique will be most beneficial. Dr. Castellucci explains that “the analysis of a subluxation involves a health history, palpation evaluation, thermography study, leg checks, and often, x-rays.” This thorough process of assessment involves many different tools for identifying misalignments.
Chiropractors become proficient to use their hands to feel any potential subluxations along a patient’s spine. This is known as a palpation examination.
Another method chiropractors use to identify subluxations is thermography. Thermography shows which parts of a patient’s nervous system and surrounding soft tissue emit the most heat. Any inflamed areas will be highlighted, confirming the presence of a vertebral subluxation. Doctors of chiropractic also use x-rays when necessary.
But, Dr. Castellucci emphasizes, “perhaps the most important part of the analysis is the post check. This is intended to assess whether or not the correction was made through the spinal adjustment.”
Interested in learning more about chiropractic technique and the Sherman College training program? Why not book a tour of our campus and talk to our professors in person!
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