Why Be Specific

In the world of manipulative medicine there has been a debate going on about the need to be specific. Some feel that all that needs to be done is a generalized manipulation to increase global ROM. This is very different when compared to a specific adjustment. In our office we follow the guidelines below.

1] First and foremost we want to find the primary vertebral segment that is involved. This is done through static palpation looking for point tenderness, pitting edema, muscle spasm. Then motion palpation is used to look for the altered biomechanics and fixation. Instrumentation is used that stimulates and then checks the neurological response of the involved segment.

2] We want to get an accurate count of that vertebra adjusted. This is imperative to ensure we are making the same correction over time.

3] Specific chiropractic adjustments depend on the correct line of drive and torque. Through palpation and weight bearing x-ray, we determine the safest and easiest way to adjust a segment into a neutral weight bearing position.

By following the above steps we try to adjust the primary problem or subluxation and not the compensations. Global manipulation of fixations will not correct the underlining mechanical deficiency. Correcting the cause will. Most times the primary problem is one or two vertebra.

Being specific and getting a good correction is our goal. Through the use of the Gonstead system we strive to find and correct the problem as quickly as possible.
If you would like more information on the Gonstead system or specific chiropractic please call.


Sincerely,
Scott Conklin DC