Dr. Cheryl and Robert Schmitt are well versed in many different
chiropractic techniques. What most people don't realize is that there
are well over 50 common chiropractic techniq
ues. Unlike some
professions, chiropractic is unique in that the technique the doctor
uses can vary due to the doctor and clients preference. During their
education, both Dr. Cheryl and Dr. Robert Schmitt were introduced and
trained in over a dozen different techniques. Over the course
of their education, both doctors found the Gonstead technique to be the
best fit and they found this technique to give them the best results
with clients. In fact, many doctors believe that the Gonstead technique
is "the most complete method of biomechanical analysis available for
use by today's doctors of chiropractic."
The Gonstead
technique includes 5 criteria for the detection and correction of the
vertebral subluxation. This analysis is highly specific and thorough.
The 5 criteria include:
- Visualization:
Visualization is the acknowledgment of subtle postural changes and
disruptions in gait of movement of a client. Visualization is used in
conjunction with the other criteria and used as a cross-reference tool.
- Instrumentation:
The instrument used by a Gonstead practitioner is the nervoscope or
temposcope. This instrument detects imbalances and unevenness in
temperature readings along the spinal column. These readings can be
indicative of inflammation and improper nerve function.
- Static palpation: This
is simply the process of feeling the spine in a stationary position.
The doctor is feeling for such things as edema, muscle spasm,
tenderness along the spine and abnormal texture in the supporting
muscles and tissues around the spine.
- Motion palpation: Motion palpation is the analysis of the quality of motion in the spine as the patient bends and moves in different directions.
- X-ray analysis:
x-ray findings help the doctor to visualize the structure of the spine
and allow the doctor to evaluate for malformations, fractures, disc
health, postural issues and vertebral misalignments that could be
contributing to the patients neurological and overall health. Full
spine radiographs are taken in the doctors office
in a standing or
weight-bearing position to fully substantiate the examination findings.
We realize that not every patient will respond to one specific technique and we are flexible in
our approach to caring for our clients. We do, however, find that
approximately 90% of our clients respond well and prefer this technique.
In
addition to this, Dr. Robert Schmitt uses soft-tissue techniques
specifically for the well-being and treatment of his athletes. This is
done mostly in conjunction with his Gonstead analysis and care but
occasionally as a stand alone treatment.
Dr. Cheryl Schmitt
also specializes in the care of pregnancy, infants and children. In
caring for these individuals, she utilizes cranial-sacral techniques in
many cases and frequently performs the Webster Technique to her
expecting mothers. She also utilizes neuro-sensory training methods
specifically when working with children and individuals with
neuro-sensory disorders such as ADHD, autism, tactile sensory issues,
etc. Chiropractic care can be safely and effectively incorporated in
the care of all children and during pregnancy using the correct
technique and care.
For more information on the Gonstead technique, please visit www.gonstead.com
For more information on care during pregnancy, infancy and childhood, please visit
www.icpa4kids.org.