Subluxation

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 due 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 six 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.

WHY TRACTION???

What is traction and why do we do it?
Remember back to the day that I explained to you the results of your x-rays. I showed you the line corresponding to the position of your spine, and compared it to the line that represented where your spine should be. The only way to return the normal curves to your spine is to perform this procedure along with your adjustments. This has been proven both clinically in doctor’s offices and through scientific research projects.

Traction is not easy, but as with most things that are really valuable it is definitely worth the effort. The purpose of extension/compression traction is to put a sustained force into the spine (focused directly on the spinal ligaments) over a period of time to cause them to gradually stretch towards the normal spinal position.

Why is traction necessary?
The subluxated (abnormal) spinal position involves the adaptive changes of the ligaments, muscles, and in long standing cases, even the vertebral bones. It is necessary to apply a force over time to stretch the ligaments back to their normal position. Due to the fact that ligaments stretch rather slowly the traction force must be introduce gradually. Also, because it does take some time for your body to get used to the new healthy position, we must proceed so as to work within your tolerance.

What can you expect to feel while in traction?
Extension/Compression Traction should never be more than uncomfortable. In other words, it should not hurt. When you are able, based on your tolerance, you may ask the staff for more tension to allow for faster changes to your spine. Usually this will be when you get to the maximum traction time in the office of twenty minutes. Some common sensations experienced during traction are: pressure in the neck or mid-back, difficulty swallowing, the sensation of mild “pins and needles” feeling in your fingers like when your “arm falls asleep” and then is waking up again. A few people report feeling mild nausea immediately following traction. These sensations are not unusual, but they certainly are not “normal”, and you should inform the staff or the doctor if you do experience any of these symptoms.  It is normal to feel some mild to moderate soreness the day following traction. This will be minimized if you utilize ice as instructed by the staff. If you are not clear about this practice ask for clarification immediately.

When will I be able to stop traction?
Remember, you chose to restore your spine to as near normal as possible. Congratulations on a very wise choice. Your health is dependent upon many factors; having your structure as normal as possible to allow for normal function is an essential part or a healthy lifestyle. We will reexamine and re-x-ray your spine to determine your progress. Each case is different, and has its own special requirements. Because many people have had their subluxation (abnormal spinal position) for some time, often many years, traction and adjustment may be necessary to maintain progress once maximum correction has been achieved. You may ask the Doctor for the specifics of your case.

Again, congratulations on choosing the best possible care for your body.

How is home traction different than traction in the office?
The use of the Dakota Traction Unit is as a supplement to the traction you perform in the office. Once your spine is a near normal as possible, the use of the home traction unit is helpful in maintaining the improved position of your spine, and the flexibility of your muscles in between adjustments and in office traction. Remember, traction at home should never be more than uncomfortable either. In fact, the goal for home traction should be to increase your time to up to 20 minutes per day, before you increase the tension of the harness. Time is more important than intensity in this case.