Vertebral subluxation: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 16:13, 9 February 2025

Concept in chiropractic

Vertebral subluxation is a term used by some chiropractors to describe a purported misalignment of the spine that is claimed to affect nervous system function and general health. The concept is controversial and not widely accepted in the medical community.

History

The concept of vertebral subluxation originated with Daniel David Palmer, the founder of chiropractic, in the late 19th century. Palmer believed that misalignments of the spine could interfere with the body's innate ability to heal itself. This idea became a central tenet of chiropractic philosophy.

Definition

In chiropractic, a vertebral subluxation is defined as a complex of functional and/or structural and/or pathological articular changes that compromise neural integrity and may influence organ system function and general health. However, the definition and significance of vertebral subluxations vary among chiropractors.

Scientific Evidence

The existence of vertebral subluxations as a cause of disease is not supported by scientific evidence. Most medical professionals regard the concept as pseudoscientific. Studies have not demonstrated that spinal adjustments can cure or prevent disease, although some patients report relief from back pain and other musculoskeletal issues.

Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractors who adhere to the vertebral subluxation theory often use spinal manipulation or adjustments to correct these subluxations. The goal is to restore proper alignment and improve nervous system function. Techniques vary, but they generally involve applying controlled force to the spine.

Criticism and Controversy

The concept of vertebral subluxation has been criticized for lacking empirical support and for being used to justify unnecessary treatments. Critics argue that the focus on subluxations detracts from evidence-based practices in chiropractic care. Some chiropractors have moved away from the subluxation model, focusing instead on musculoskeletal health and pain management.

Related pages

References

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-'''Vertebral Subluxation''' is a term used in the [[chiropractic]] field to describe a condition where one or more of the bones of the [[spine]] (vertebrae) move out of position and create pressure on, or irritate spinal nerves. Spinal nerves are the nerves that come out from between each of the bones in your spine. This pressure or irritation on the nerves then causes those nerves to malfunction and interfere with the signals traveling over those nerves.
+{{Short description|Concept in chiropractic}}
+{{Chiropractic}}
+[[File:Kiropraktisk ledd-korreksjon av rygg.jpg|thumb|A chiropractor performing a spinal adjustment]]
+'''Vertebral subluxation''' is a term used by some [[chiropractors]] to describe a purported misalignment of the [[spine]] that is claimed to affect [[nervous system]] function and general health. The concept is controversial and not widely accepted in the medical community.
+==History==
+The concept of vertebral subluxation originated with [[Daniel David Palmer]], the founder of chiropractic, in the late 19th century. Palmer believed that misalignments of the spine could interfere with the body's innate ability to heal itself. This idea became a central tenet of chiropractic philosophy.
 ==Definition==
-The [[World Health Organization]] (WHO) defines a vertebral subluxation as a significant structural displacement, which can be seen with static imaging techniques such as X-rays. This displacement, or misalignment, can lead to impairment of function and the body's ability to maintain its health.
+In chiropractic, a vertebral subluxation is defined as a complex of functional and/or structural and/or pathological articular changes that compromise neural integrity and may influence organ system function and general health. However, the definition and significance of vertebral subluxations vary among chiropractors.
-==Causes==
+==Scientific Evidence==
-Vertebral subluxation can be caused by a wide range of issues ranging from a minor slip or bump to a car accident or any sudden trauma. When the vertebrae are displaced or become stuck in an abnormal position, the individual may experience pain and discomfort, decreased mobility, or many other symptoms.
+The existence of vertebral subluxations as a cause of disease is not supported by scientific evidence. Most medical professionals regard the concept as pseudoscientific. Studies have not demonstrated that spinal adjustments can cure or prevent disease, although some patients report relief from back pain and other musculoskeletal issues.
-==Symptoms==
+==Chiropractic Treatment==
-Symptoms of vertebral subluxation can vary greatly depending on the location and severity of the subluxation. Some common symptoms include:
+Chiropractors who adhere to the vertebral subluxation theory often use [[spinal manipulation]] or adjustments to correct these subluxations. The goal is to restore proper alignment and improve nervous system function. Techniques vary, but they generally involve applying controlled force to the spine.
-* [[Back pain]]
+==Criticism and Controversy==
-* [[Neck pain]]
+The concept of vertebral subluxation has been criticized for lacking empirical support and for being used to justify unnecessary treatments. Critics argue that the focus on subluxations detracts from evidence-based practices in chiropractic care. Some chiropractors have moved away from the subluxation model, focusing instead on musculoskeletal health and pain management.
-* [[Headache]]
-* Dizziness
-* Balance problems
-* Reduced mobility
-* Numbness or tingling in the limbs
-==Treatment==
+==Related pages==
-Treatment for vertebral subluxation typically involves spinal adjustment or manipulation. This is a type of manual therapy where a chiropractor uses their hands or a device to apply a controlled force to a joint of the spine. The goal of this treatment is to improve physical function and reduce the subluxation, thereby alleviating pain and other symptoms.
+* [[Chiropractic]]
+* [[Spinal manipulation]]
+* [[Alternative medicine]]
-==See Also==
+==References==
-* [[Chiropractic]]
+{{Reflist}}
-* [[Spine]]
-* [[Back pain]]
-* [[Neck pain]]
-* [[Headache]]
-[[Category:Medical terms]]
 [[Category:Chiropractic]]
-[[Category:Spine]]
+[[Category:Pseudoscience]]
-{{stub}}