Why the Gonstead method?

The SMT group was treated with the Gonstead method, with high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts “directed to spinal biomechanical dysfunction (full spine approach) as diagnosed by standard chiropractic tests at each individual treatment session.” They did not say what those standard chiropractic tests were. According to skeptical chiropractor Sam Homola, those “standard chiropractic tests” are not reliable, and they are meant to diagnose mythical “subluxations.” Why Gonstead? Homola commented, “I cannot imagine why a scientific study would rely upon an entrepreneurial chiropractic treatment method rather than upon generic spinal manipulation.”

The authors did not reveal what parts of the spine were manipulated. Gonstead includes adjustments of the cervical spine, and any benefits of neck manipulation (placebo or otherwise) must be balanced against possible risk of a rare but catastrophic complication: stroke or death.