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What Is A Vertebral Subluxation?

Vertebral Subluxation is not the name of a new rock group. It's not one of the "Big Three" automaker's latest cars. And it's not a sublime new spa treatment. A vertebral subluxation is an area in the spine where movement is restricted or bones (vertebrae) are out of alignment. This may mean that a vertebral bone is slightly "out of place" or that a section of several vertebrae are misaligned. In addition, a vertebral subluxation refers to a region in the spine that lacks normal movement or simply isn't functioning properly (this is why vertebral subluxations are sometimes referred to as vertebral dysfunctions or spinal dysfunctions). As a holistic health-care practitioner, Dr. Christiana addresses a wide array of factors that influence patients' well being, including nutrition, exercise and stress. However, spinal health is the foundation of chiropractic's revolutionary approach to achieving optimal wellness. Specifically, Dr. Christiana seeks to identify, correct and prevent these dysfunctional areas of the spine known as vertebral subluxations. Although this condition is widespread, many individuals know little - or nothing - about the toll it may be exacting on their health. Read on to learn about vertebral subluxations and how to keep yourself and your family free of this common health challenge. Start With the Spine In order to fully comprehend what a vertebral subluxation is, it is helpful to have a basic understanding of spinal anatomy. The spine is comprised of individual bones known as vertebrae: seven in the neck (cervical vertebrae), twelve in the upper back (throracic vertebrae) and five in the lower back (lumbar vertebrae). At the foundation of the spine lay the hip bones (one sacrum and two iliac bones). The coccyx ("tail bone") forms the tip of the sacrum. Fluid-filled pillows called intervertebral discs separate vertebrae. These bundles of connective tissue facilitate motion, cushion surrounding vertebrae and prevent vertebrae from rubbing against each other (ouch!). The vertebrae, all of which contain hollow spaces in the center, are stacked one on top of the other. The hollow spaces align, forming a protective bony column. This column houses the confluence of nervous tissue called the spinal cord. Nerves that supply (or innervate) almost every structure in the body - from the heart to the muscle that moves the little toe - emerge from the spinal cord. Musculoskeletal Maladies Scientific research has linked vertebral subluxations with a myriad of disorders. Most frequently, they are associated with maladies involving muscles and bones (musculoskeletal disorders). Musculoskeletal disorders include back pain, neck pain, sports injuries, jaw problems (temporal mandibular dysfunction), whiplash injury, sciatica, headaches and joint pain. It's no wonder that vertebral subluxations trigger musculoskeletal pain. After all, vertebrae are attached to muscles and other bones via tendons and ligaments. One glance at an anatomical diagram of the back and neck shows that, in one way or another, all the muscles and bones in this region are connected. A misaligned vertebra disrupts the intricate dance between muscles and bones. This disruption creates a state of imbalance - in turn exerting stress on connecting structures and producing discomfort. Subluxations: Slow Traffic Ahead Although eliminating vertebral subluxations is an extremely effective strategy for ending back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders, doctors of chiropractic are much more than "back doctors." Scientific studies show that vertebral subluxations may also playa role in a vast spectrum of ailments (see side box). What's the connection between the spine and disease? Although more research is needed before a firm link is established, the prevailing theory is as follows: Because nerves traveling back and forth to the spinal cord emerge between vertebrae, vertebral subluxations may affect the messages sent by these nerves to the structures they innervate, including the organs. For example, nerves course from the spinal cord in the upper neck to the ear. Vertebral subluxations of the upper neck are often detected in children with ear infections. What's more, research reveals that the correction of vertebral subluxations alleviates ear infection (J Manip Physiol Ther 1996; 19: 169- 77). Investigators speculate that vertebral subluxation may alter nerve flow to structures in the ear, causing them to function in a way that predisposes the ear to infection. Subluxation Sleuths How do doctors of chiropractic identify vertebral subluxations? They begin with a health history and wellness assessment. A history of physical trauma, deskwork, repetitive movement, involvement in sports, inactivity or high stress levels tend to increase the risk of vertebral subluxation. Patients also receive a physical examination, including specific orthopedic and neurologic tests. In addition, doctors of chiropractic consider patients' posture and alignment. A skewed posture suggests that a vertebra - or section of vertebrae - is misaligned. Chiropractors also examine patients' backs in search of movement restrictions or misalignments that may indicate the presence of spinal dysfunction. A patient's symptoms - such as pain, soreness and stiffness - may also suggest that he or she has a vertebral subluxation. (Note: pain may not appear until after a subluxation has existed for a period of time.) Stamp Out Subluxations Before They Do Harm To correct vertebral subluxations, doctors of chiropractic apply a gentle force to the spine called a chiropractic adjustment. These maneuvers restore movement and alignment to dysfunctional vertebra. When it comes to promoting optimal health, chiropractors know that prevention is key. Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, chiropractors listen to patients and work to identify the underlying factors instigating their health problems. This means providing nutritional recommendations, giving ergonomic advice, suggesting stressreduction strategies and encouraging patients to engage in regular exercise. It also means correcting vertebral subluxations before they have a chance to do harm. This is accomplished through regular chiropractic checkups. Just as regular dental checkups help keep your teeth free of cavities, regular chiropractic checkups can keep your spine subluxation-free. Don't wait until vertebral subluxations affect your health. Schedule an appointment for a chiropractic evaluation today!

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