Subluxation

What is Subluxation?

subluxationVertebral Subluxation Complex, referred to as Subluxation, describes a less than complete dislocation of a vertebral joint with nervous system interference. There are five aspects of a subluxation:

  1. Spinal Kinesiopatholgy — which means the bones of the spine are out of normal position and have lost normal motion. Turning and bending are restricted.
  2. Neuropathophysiology — nervous system function is impaired when nerve tissue is pinched, stretched or otherwise damaged by the improper spinal function. Symptoms may show up in other parts of the body.
  3. Myopathology — Muscles that support the spine weaken, atrophy, tighten and/or spasm. Scar tissue can affect muscles, necessitating repeated spinal adjustments.
  4. Histopathology — Soft tissue becomes warm, swollen and inflamed with increased blood or lymph. Discs bulge, herniate, tear or degenerate.
  5. Pathophysiology — this may include bone spurs and other abnormal bony growths, fusion of malfunctioning joints, decay, scarring and long-term nerve dysfunction; all of which can have a detrimental effect on other bodily systems.

What Causes Subluxation?

In general, subluxation can be a result of trauma or of long-term stresses on the spine from a variety of causes.

Common causes of subluxation include, but are not limited to:

  • Automobile accidents
  • Improper lifting
  • Misuse of drugs or alcohol
  • Emotional stress
  • Chemical imbalances
  • Long periods of sitting
  • Structural anomalies
  • Postural distortions

Subluxation can lead to localized as well as referred pain and a range of sometimes seemingly unrelated symptoms that can have a negative impact on the sufferer’s quality of life. The good news is that proper diagnosis and treatment can provide significant improvement.

Chiropractic Treatment Helps the Spine Regain its Proper Function

Chiropractic adjustments gently reposition the subluxated spinal bones into their correct alignment so that pressure on the nerves is relieved. The number and frequency of adjustments varies from one patient to another, depending on which section of the spine is involved and how badly the vertebrae are subluxated.

In addition, a care program may include exercise and nutrition recommendations, and other conservative methods of care as appropriate to help each individual achieve optimal musculo-skeletal health.