The Vertebral Subluxation Complex, briefly defined, refers to the hindrance of optimal nervous system function due to physical, biochemical, or psychological stressors (refer to the Causes section below). In chiropractic care, the terms vertebral subluxation, vertebral subluxation complex (VSC), or simply subluxation are central. Although alternative terms like spinal misalignment or dysfunction, fixation, facet syndrome, or manipulable lesion have been used, they fall short in capturing the true essence, complexity, and global health ramifications of the vertebral subluxation.

Essentially, a vertebral subluxation occurs when spinal joints fail to move properly, or spinal bones become misaligned, causing interference with nerve messages between the brain and the body. This interference can impact movement patterns, muscle balance, and even the function of organs and associated chemicals and hormones. It's noteworthy that most subluxations don't necessarily induce pain, as the majority of nerves involved aren't nociceptive or pain-sensing.

Research continues to reveal the diverse and significant effects that subluxations can have on overall health and function. The World Health Organization (WHO) now recognizes it in the latest international classification of diseases as M 99.1 Subluxation complex (vertebral).

Chiropractors, highly trained healthcare professionals, specialize in analyzing and correcting vertebral subluxations. While other manual care providers may employ similar techniques to assist the body in functioning better, they typically lack specific training in the subluxation complex.

Causes of Vertebral Subluxation:

Subluxations, characterized by spinal and nervous system dysfunction, can result from stressors or forces that the body struggles to adapt to. These stressors encompass physical factors (macro and micro-traumas), chemical factors (neurotoxins, substances like alcohol, tobacco, etc.), and emotional tensions (chronic stress, family conflict, etc.). A combination of these factors can lead to joint function and neurological integration alterations, with physical causes being apparent but not necessarily the most prevalent.

Effects of Vertebral Subluxation:

Nervous system interference (vertebral subluxations) can trigger health problems extending beyond headaches and back pain. Symptoms arising from this interference may appear unrelated to the spine, such as digestive or respiratory issues, infertility, incontinence, concentration difficulties, mood swings, and disrupted sleep patterns.

While not asserting that all disease or dysfunction stems solely from subluxation, it is emphasized that subluxations consistently diminish the body's innate ability to function optimally. The chiropractor's primary role is not to treat symptoms but to enhance nervous system function, enabling the entire body to perform at its best. Athletes increasingly incorporate chiropractic care into their training for injury recovery, prevention, and peak performance, and many individuals experience improved well-being even without obvious illness.

Effects of the Vertebral Subluxation Complex on the nervous system include segmental and global alterations, such as compressive lesions that impede nerve signals, facilitative lesions that overstimulate nerve signals, and dysafferentation, which involves altered input affecting various aspects of homeostatic integration. Dr. James L. Chestnut's work provides a detailed summary of scientific literature on chiropractic and the neurological pathways affected by vertebral subluxation.

The act of addressing subluxations is termed as an adjustment. Chiropractic adjustments, though sometimes referred to as manipulations, may not be synonymous (despite the potential use of that term by some chiropractors). These adjustments encompass a spectrum, spanning from the traditional dynamic thrust to gentler forces and contacts, utilizing instruments and assisted tables as well.

By employing a precise force in the correct direction and timing, alterations in the position and movement of spinal bones can be achieved. Gradually, this process aids in rectifying abnormal structural and neural patterns. Typically, the duration for complete correction is influenced by how long the subluxation pattern has been present.

The selection of specific techniques is contingent upon factors such as age, condition, and individual comfort levels. Chiropractors affiliated with the NZCA are extensively trained professionals with a repertoire of techniques catering to individuals ranging from newborns to the elderly.

In the hands of a qualified chiropractor, adjustments pose considerably lower risks compared to pain medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, and various routine activities.