What is a Subluxation?

A subluxation is a vertebra (spinal segment) or group of vertebrae (posture) that loses its proper position in the spine, which alters the normal curves of the spine when viewed from the side and deviates from straight when viewed from the front. 

Ligaments, which hold vertebrae together, shorten around the misalignment and adapt to the abnormal shape of the spine (ie. abnormal posture). 

Muscles, which move bones, spasm and cause pain in an attempt to prevent further misalignment of the bones (ie. abnormal posture).

 Discs, the cartilage pad between vertebrae, begin to degenerate and thin because of abnormal stresses and strains which is an additional source of pain.  

Furthermore, when a misalignment is present for a long period of time, the vertebrae undergo arthritic changes do to the abnormal stress and strains of a prolonged abnormal posture.

Chiropractic Biophysics Doctors address each component of this process with a comprehensive, corrective care approach consisting of specific mirror image postural adjustments, mirror image postural exercises, and mirror image extension traction.

In addition to the traditional orthopedic, neurologic, and chiropractic exams, a patient's X-rays are analyzed for proper alignment and curvature and are compared to the published normal values of the Harrison Normal Spinal model. The degree to which the patient's spine deviates from this model generally determines length of their treatment. Specific factors that determine treatment length include:

• Patient's age,

• Phase of spinal degeneration (how long the problem has been present, which is determined by the presence bone spurs (osteoarthritis...picture below)

• Treatment compliance. 

• General health of the patient and lifestyle activities. 

Since people respond differently and compliance is an unknown variable at the start of treatment, the time it takes to correct the spine varies. The minimum time frame for most cases is two to three months.    At the end of a corrective care phase, a final re-exam is done with post x-rays and may include computerized postural exam to determine the percentage of spinal correction.  At this time, the patient, if happy with their correction, can progress and maintain their correction by way of maintenance adjustments or continue corrective care procedures if warranted....the choice is always up to the patient.