What is a Subluxation (also known as Spinal Dysfunction)?
According to Wikipedia, A "Vertebral subluxation is a term that is commonly used by some chiropractors (specifically, "straight chiropractors") to describe signs and symptoms of the spinal column. Those chiropractors who assert this concept also add a visceral component to the definition. Chiropractors maintain that a vertebral subluxation complex is a dysfunctional biomechanical spinal segment (lesion) the same as medical doctors do, but additionally assert that the dysfunction actively alters neurological function, which in turn, is believed to lead to neuromusculoskeletal and visceral disorders. The WHO acknowledges this difference between the medical and chiropractic definitions of a subluxation. Medical doctors only refer to "significant structural displacements" as subluxations, whereas chiropractors suggest that a dysfunctional segment, whether displaced significantly or not, should be referred to as a subluxation.[1] This difference has been noted in the proceedings of the chiropractic profession's Mercy Center Consensus Conference: "The chiropractic profession refers to this concept as a "subluxation". This use of the word subluxation should not be confused with the term's precise anatomic usage which considers only the anatomical relationships."
Dr. Hecht defines subluxation as a vertebra or group of vertebrae that become misaligned or move out of its normal position causing an alteration of the normal movement pattern (biomechanics) of the joint(s). Subluxations can be caused by a wide range of issues ranging from a minor slip or bump to a car accident or any sudden trauma. When a vertebra is subluxated, the inflammatory process begins and puts pressure on the spinal nerves which in turn send aberrant signals to the muscles often causing them to shorten or go into spasm or a state of hypertonicity. This pressure will continue to build unless the joint dysfunction is corrected and cause compensatory changes in the adjacent joints and muscle tissues. The subluxation then interrupts the natural pathways that sned and receive messages from the brain for normal function.
As time goes by and a subluxation remains untreated, the spine and surrounding tissues such as the vertebral joints and discs can begin to degenerate. This degeneration becomes more difficult to reverse as time goes by as the surrounding muscles, nerves and bones begin to compensate to the new shape. These changes/accommodations will start in as little as 48 hours. If left untreated, the body will continue to compensate to perform normal daily functions. Eventually, a patient will have a small, often nagging pain, that may develop into sharper pain or pain into an extremity. It is very important that spinal corrections are made as soon after an injury as possible.
Chiropractic Acupuncture Massage Personal Training Spinal Rehabilitation Custom Orthotics Nutrition
