Chiropractic Adjustments

As chiropractic professionals we have extensive training in diagnosing and treating spinal subluxations. The word “subluxation” comes from the Latin “luxare” (to dislocate) and “sub” (somewhat or slightly) and literally means ‘slight dislocation.’ In the 1800s, the term subluxation summed up the systematic changes that took place throughout the body when a bone is out of alignment. Today, chiropractors will usually use the term ‘vertebral subluxation complex’ or ‘VSC’ to more accurately reflect the neurological, structural and functional changes that are all components of the spinal subluxation.

An adjustment is a quick thrust applied to a vertebra in order to correct its position, movement or both. This thrust is often followed by a “cracking” sound. That sound is the release of gas that occurs with the adjustment of the vertebra. On occasion one may experience minor discomfort, more frequently one experiences relief. When “cracking” does not occur, that is often a sign of tension but the adjustment is still beneficial. Frequent adjustments are essential to maintain good health and avoid dealing with pain.

There are five separate components that contribute to vertebral subluxation complex (VSC). By understanding more about these components, you can better understand how your body functions.

1. Bone Component

This is when the vertebra doesn't move properly, usually because it is either out of position or degenerating. If the vertebra cannot move as it should, the spaces between the bones that the nerves pass through can become narrowed. This narrowing can cause irritating pain or restriction of movement of the nerve, also known as an impingement. This component is referred to as kinesiopathology.

2. Nervous Component

The brain sends messages throughout the body by way of the nervous system. The slightest amount of pressure on the nerves can cause a malfunction in these messages, resulting in pain or restricted movement or both. This impingement can also lead to other conditions such as the failure of proper organ function. This component is also known as neuropathology.

3. Muscular Component

The nerves control the muscles, which in turn hold the vertebra in place. Therefore, the muscles are an important part of VSC. The impinged nerve can cause muscle spasms. When the muscle goes into a spasm, the vertebra gets pulled even farther out of place. The cycle begins all over again as the irritated nerve gets aggravated even further. It is easy to understand why treatment is needed to stop this painful cycle. This component is called myopathology.

4. Soft Tissue Component

The pressure on the nerves combined with the misaligned vertebra affects all of the surrounding tendons, ligaments, blood supply and tissues. These tissues become either stretched out or scarred and this can result in permanent damage including restricted movement and permanent instability. These changes may take place at the area of the VSC or they may take place at the other end of the affected nerve. This component is commonly known as histopathology.

5. Chemical Component

VSC can result in real changes in the body's chemistry. Often, these chemical changes will result in an increase in inflammation in the already painful area of the VSC. This fifth component is also referred to as biochemical abnormalities, VSC is progressive if left untreated and can lead to a myriad of health problems.

Scientific research supports the fact that subluxation has a great detrimental impact on the body’s overall health. The only way to maintain true good health is to have a healthy nervous system that is free from VSC. Chiropractors are the only health professionals trained in the detection, location and treatment of vertebral subluxation complex. Chiropractic medicine can eliminate VSC and all of the resulting problems it can cause.