Subluxation is an incomplete or partial dislocation of a spinal joint. The subluxation interferes with nerves running along the joint and affect joint motion and cause symptoms. A moderate dislocation of any joint will usually need chiropractic therapy to help relocate or reduce the subluxation, although some patients will report the joint relocating by itself.

Most subluxations are diagnosed by x rays of the spine. In a few cases, the x rays may not reveal a subluxation and the chiropractor will make a diagnosis based on his physical examination. If it is a "significant structural displacement, and therefore visible on x rays, specific spinal adjustments can help improve mind/body communications.

Subluxations are generally associated with the daily stresses and strains of daily living. Exercises, gardening, lifting, improper sleeping, trauma and falls are all causes of subluxations. In children subluxations may be congenital or acquired during childbirth. There is some evidence that emotional stress and poor diet may also be associated with subluxations.

One can have subluxation and not even know about it. Many subluxations in the early stages have no symptoms and thus there are no warning signs. Subluxations are generally identified on physical examination by the doctor and x rays.

The symptoms depend on where in the spine the subluxation occurs. Generally, the individual will complain of headaches, stiff neck, shoulder pain, numbness or tingling in the arms or legs, difficulty sleeping and anxiety. Minor degrees of subluxation have no symptoms but moderate or severe degrees of subluxation always presents with symptoms.

Once a subluxation has occurred, it is best to follow up with a chiropractor and have regular treatments. In addition, regular exercise, proper diet and a good daily living are essential for prevention of recurrence.

The correction of subluxations is an art which requires skilled adjustments to the spine. For those who have had acute problems, the subluxations can be easily corrected. For those with recurrent and chronic subluxations, frequent adjustments and manipulations will be required. As the subluxation is corrected, the nervous system resumes its normal function and also helps in the healing process.

In some mild cases subluxations resolve on their own. The many physical features of daily life routine sometimes help to correct the subluxations. However, in the majority of cases, subluxations do not resolve until the individual undergoes proper therapy/treatment.

Chiropractic adjustment is a technique of applying a specific force to a vertebra that is subluxated or out of place. The Chiropractor identifies the location of the subluxation, determines the exact direction and the best way to correct the positioning. The adjustment itself is a movement of the spine that is done either by hand, an instrument or with a special table. The manipulations are generally done in a rapid fashion. The adjustment assists the vertebra back into the normal alignment and helps restore normal motion to a joint. These manipulations help relieve the pressure on the nerves.

The number of adjustments depends on the patient, the severity of his condition and the goals of the treatment. As the treatments progress, the majority of patients will start to feel better in a week or two. As the patient progresses, the manipulations are done once monthly. In chronic cases, complete healing may take months or even years. Further appointments are made to ensure that the spine is healing with no complications. Routine follow up visits can help detect and resolve new problems before they become serious.

Chiropractic treatment is generally a safe modality of treatment for subluxations. Like all treatments, the individual must be thoroughly examined before starting any treatment. The safety of chiropractic adjustments is much higher than surgery and the frequent consumption of pain medications. Before starting any kind of treatment, the Chiropractor will explain the procedures and reveal any potential risks involved in undergoing treatment.

Generally yes, the chiropractor will fully examine you and assess your spine. The site of the surgery ands its surrounding area will be carefully manipulated to avoid any complications.

When properly done chiropractic manipulations are safe and painless. Chiropractors do not have the authority to prescribe pain medications. In some cases, ice may be applied to the joints to diminish whether pain may occur.

Some patients experience almost instant relief. Others may take several weeks or months. Those individuals who have delayed seeking help often take time to see any benefits of the treatment. However, it is suggested that all patients have regular follow up to ensure that relapse has not occurred.

Of course. When developing a care plan, your chiropractic doctor considers the unique circumstances of each patient. There are many ways to adjust the spine. The method selected will be best suited to your age, size and condition.

Some of the chiropractor manipulative treatments are not covered by medical insurance companies. Before you decide to embark on chiropractic therapy, discuss in detail the costs and the number of visits that you may require. Most chiropractors do demand up front payment. In the event that there is no Chiropractic coverage, discuss a payment plan to meet your financial and treatment needs.