Vertebral Subluxation Complex - Details

Let us briefly look at some of the factors which play a role in three of the top Basic levels. A brief anatomic explanation will be provided when deemed necessary. A more in-depth analysis of the relevant anatomy will occur in a future Module of this course.

Kinesiologic Component

In addition to the vertebral joints, structures such as Ligaments, Joint Capsules and Muscle-Tendon systems are included. In addition, it must be understood that the Vertebral Column is a dynamic structure. Restrictions in movement in at one level of the spine may lead to spinal abnormalities (compensatory changes) in other portions of the spine. No disorder of a single major component of a motion segment can exist without affecting first the function of the other components of the same unit and then the functions of other levels of the spine (#1 p. 154).

The basic unit of spinal mobility is the motion segment previously described. Functionally this may be considered a three-joint complex acting as one. A typical motion segment consists of 2 adjacent vertebrae joined by an Intervertebral Disc (IVD), 2 posterior joints with their capsules and several intrinsic ligaments. Motion segments which do not fit this model would include the first 2 Cervical Spinal motion segments and the Sacro-Iliac joints, to mention a few.

We have already discussed the 6 Ranges of Motion (ROM) of the spine. Chiropractic evaluative procedures are often directed at determining specific intersegmental motion or positional abnormalities and correcting these through specific adjustive procedures directed to those segments. Therefore, the concept of Joint Play has been developed, referring to a springiness in the joint when it is taken to tension, during palpation. Joint play, evaluated through a diagnostic procedure referred to as Motion Palpation, represents the elastic barrier of resistance to joint motion. Further, more complex motion, such as regional or gross ROM, gait and dynamic posture, all fall into the domain of the kinesiologic component and within the purview of chiropractic.

Research is also beginning to validate Chiropractic's theories about spinal movement, specifically, that restricted motion of the Manipulable subluxation is central to spinal degeneration. "From the scientific literature, it is clear that all situations that lead to immobilization cause some degree of degenerative change in the musculoskeletal system, and early mobilization, traction, and continuous passive motion overcome these harmful effect. (#1 p. 154) Chiropractic treatment, through the use of manipulation/adjustments, to a previously immobilized (fixed) joint can lead to normal joint function and physiology. The extent of AND time for maximal recover are dependent o the duration of immobilization of the joint. Obviously, not all clinical cases are amenable to full recovery for a variety of reasons. (Original Chiropractic theory would point back to the concept of Innate Intelligence at this point, stating that the amount of recovery through Chiropractic Care would be 100% of the person's Innate.)