Understanding subluxation, and the effect time plays on a subluxated spine.

Subluxation

The graphic to the left represents one type of subluxation. Subluxation is "a complex of functional and/or structural and/or pathological articular changes that compromise neural integrity"(1). When a subluxation occurs it causes nerve interference in some portion of the body affected by those nerves. The subluxation causes changes to the structure as well as the nerves. These changes get progressively worse as time is allowed to work on the subluxated area of the spine. These changes take the form of ongoing degeneration known as "subluxation degeneration". By understanding the type and amount of changes, it is possible to reasonably estimate the time subluxations have been present in a spine. Having this information is useful in understanding the time and effort needed for correction.

Near Normal

This x-ray images are this page are views of the right side of a neck. The picture to the right is a near normal spine. Compare this view with the ones you will see below on this page. Notice the normal forward curve of the neck. This curve helps absorb shock. The disc spaces between the bones in the neck are thick and even. The front portions (right on the x-ray) of each of the vertebrae are fairly square with well defined borders. These are characteristics of a normal neck. Normal vertebrae in other parts of the spine also have similar characteristics to what we see here. When subluxations occur and are left uncorrected, ongoing changes occur, damaging the structure and function of the spine resulting in nerve damage and the associated problems caused from improper nerve supply.

Phase One Subluxation Degeneration

Phase One Subluxation Degeneration is seen in subluxations that have been present for up to twenty years. This phase is characterized with a loss or change in the normal curve in the spine. On the example to the left you can see that the normal forward curve of the neck is lost and has even has developed a reverse curve. The disc spaces are also showing a slight change in shape. One good point is that the bodies of each of the vertebrae still exhibits clean clear borders. Segmental motion may be abnormal but overall motion is probably not affected. Chiropractic reconstructive care for a phase one can take from 6 to 18 months. More than 80% of people with Phase One Subluxation Degeneration have no pain. If left untreated, phase one subluxation degeneration continues to progress until it eventually reaches the next phase.

Phase Two Subluxation Degeneration

The image to the right is an example of phase two subluxation degeneration, which is normally seen in subluxations that have been present between 20 and 40 years. This phase has some of the same characteristics of the previous phase including a loss of normal curvature and position as well as an alteration in segmental motion. Spines with phase two subluxation degeneration many times show a reduction in the range of motion in that area. X-rays of a phase two begin to show calcium changes or buildup at certain levels of the spine. These changes are sometimes called by many names including spurs and arthritis. Disc spaces between the affected vertebrae are narrower and may appear to be flattening out. Although most people with Phase Two Subluxation Degeneration may not exhibit any symptoms, some may start to feel stiff or achy. Again, if Phase Two Subluxation Degeneration is left uncorrected it continues to advance to the next phase.

Phase Three Subluxation Degeneration

Phase Three Subluxation Degeneration is caused by subluxations that have been continuing for 40 to 65 years. All of the characteristics of the previous phases are found, only more pronounced. The curvatures are abnormal and the disc spaces are greatly reduced. Calcium changes on the spine are abundant. Typically, a person in phase three will have a restricted range of motion and exhibit symptoms of some kind. The vertebrae show obvious changes in shape. Calcium projections, also known as "spurs or lipping", can be readily seen on the x-ray. In many instances, the body adapts to the presence of calcium; chiropractic care may not eliminate or reduce the calcium changes. Positive results from chiropractic treatments may only be measured in functional improvements. As before, if left unchecked, the degeneration slowly advances into the next phase.

Phase Four Subluxation Degeneration

The x-ray image to the right is a typical example of phase four subluxation degeneration, which is seen with ongoing subluxations that have been left uncorrected for over sixty five years. Phase four is a serios condition that will negatively impact longevity and quality of life. The massive amount of neurological damage caused by years of subluxation take a serious toll on a person's health status. X-rays in phase four show serious and severe structural changes. Vertebrae exhibit substantial calcium changes, disc spaces appear blurred and nearly non-existent, and the bones themselves appear to be fused together. In this phase a person's range of motion will be severely restricted. Aditionally, a number of other health issues will likely be experienced. Correction may not be possible in phase four, but care can be directed to some reduction in the effects of subluxation with the goal of improvement in the quality of life remaining. Persons in phase four subluxation degeneration have a serious situation both structurally and neurologically, but are certainly not beyond hope. Many people in phase four report significant improvements in symptoms, conditions, mobility and quality of life after prorper chiropractic care.

It should be noted that the above are general overiews and not hard rules. Every person's specific situation is different. Degeneration occurs at different rates in different people and each person heals at their own rate. The further progressed the subluxation degeneration is in your spine, the more complex and time consuming your treatmetn and recovery will be. Early treatment to stop and prevent the advancement of subluxation degeneration is always best. Of course, if you're not currently under chiropractic care, there's no better time to start than now!

Notes:

1 Association of Chiropractic Colleges