Subluxation is a term used in the chiropractic field to describe what happens when one of the vertebrae in your spine moves out of position. The word "subluxation" is derived from the Latin words meaning somewhat or slightly (sub) and to dislocate (luxate). When this happens, the misaligned vertebra creates pressure and stress on the spinal nerves, blood vessels, and surrounding muscles. This pressure and stress can cause an imbalance in the body's normal processes as the nerves in the spinal column extend to the entire body and its organs. As time goes on and the uncorrected subluxation settles, the damage to the nerve gets progressively worse different stages of subluxation degeneration set in.
A subluxation, or the Vertebral Subluxation
Complex, is a serious condition identified by
its five parts:
Abnormal motion or position of spinal bones:
(Spinal Kinesiopathology) The bones of the spine
have lost their normal motion and position. This
can restrict your ability to turn and bend. It sets
in motion the other four components.
Abnormal nervous system function:
(Neuropathophysiology) Improper spinal function
can choke, stretch, or irritate delicate nerve tissue.
The resulting nervous system dysfunction can cause
symptoms elsewhere in the body.
Abnormal muscle function:
(Myopathology) Muscles supporting the spine can
weaken, atrophy, or become tight and go into spasm.
The resulting scar tissue can change muscle tone,
requiring repeated spinal adjustments.
Abnormal soft tissue function:
(Histopathology) A rise in temperature from an
increase in blood or lymph supply can result in
swelling and inflammation. Discs can bulge,
herniate, tear, or degenerate. Other soft tissues
may suffer permanent damage.
Abnormal function of the spine and body:
(Pathophysiology) Bone spurs and other abnormal
bony growths attempt to fuse malfunctioning spinal
joints. This spinal decay, scar tissue, and long-term
nerve dysfunction can cause other systems of the
body to fail.
Regular visits to a licensed chiropractor can help to reduce the effects of subluxation and may be necessary maintain good health and physical fitness.
