August 25, 2026 · 2 min
How to Read Your Own Spinal X-Ray: A Patient's Guide to Gonstead Analysis
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When you see your own spinal X-ray for the first time, it can look like a black-and-white puzzle. Gonstead analysis is built to make it readable — not just to the doctor, but to you.
The process involves drawing specific lines and measurements directly onto the film: a line across the base of the pelvis to check for unlevelness, lines through vertebral bodies to check rotation and tilt, and measurements of disc space to see whether it's even from side to side or has started to narrow on one side. These aren't subjective impressions — they're standardized measurements with defined normal ranges.
During your visit, we walk through these findings with you on the actual film: here's where the pelvis sits, here's the segment that's rotated, here's the disc space that's narrowing on one side. The goal is that you leave understanding what was found and why it matters for your care — not just being told a diagnosis.
This kind of walkthrough isn't universal across chiropractic offices. Some approaches don't use X-ray at all; others use it primarily to rule out red flags rather than to guide the specifics of the adjustment. Reviewing the film with the patient, line by line, is a distinct part of how Gonstead visits work.
Read more: full-spine X-ray analysis, your first visit.
Frequently asked questions
Will you actually show me my X-ray, or just tell me the results?
You'll see the actual film, with the specific lines and measurements pointed out directly on the image.
What does an 'unlevel pelvis' on X-ray mean?
It means one side of the pelvis sits higher than the other on the standing film — a finding that can relate to how the rest of the spine has compensated above it.
Do I need a referral to get an X-ray here?
No referral is needed. X-rays are taken on-site when clinically indicated as part of your Gonstead exam.
[Book An Appointment](https://mainestreamhealthco.janeapp.com/) — Mainestream Health Co., 15 Main Street, Gray, ME. Call or text (207) 317-6770.
