What Are Subluxations?
When a misalignment exists in the pelvis or spine, the deviation higher up the spine is usually much greater. These misalignments and resulting stresses in the spine are absorbed by the discs that separate each vertebra. This abnormal stress on the disc causes the disc to become distorted over time which leads to inflammation, break down and even a herniated disc (slipped disc).
Distorted nerve communications can be an underlying cause of many health problems.
Distorted discs interfere with the nerve roots that exit at that level of the spine. It can cause either direct pressure on the nerve or create inflammatory changes which can cause chemical irritation to the nerve.
When a misalignment causes interference with the normal nerve flow, we call it subluxation. Addressing subluxations could have far reaching benefits beyond back pain.
The nervous system regulates and controls every cell, tissue, organ and system of the body.
What Causes Subluxations?
Physical Stress
Physical stress on the body comes in many forms.
The way we sit, or the fact that we sit at all, causes stress on the human frame.
The way we bend, the activities we take part in or do.
A builder or decorator who needs to bend down repetitively or spends an extended time in a flexed position, creates physical stress on various joints but especially the low back.
But… so would a person who sits all day at a desk. They would also put their back in a flexed position for extended periods. When most people sit, they release their muscles letting the pelvic and lumbar ligament structures take the load off. This places immense stress upon the discs and splays the pelvis.
Chemical Stress
There is a theory in chiropractic that chemical stress can also cause subluxations.
It is well known that chemical stress, both man made and naturally occurring, can place the body under immense stress.
Allergies to certain foods such as nuts, pollen, diary, bee stings, wheat, etc. are all forms of chemical stress.
When a stress is placed on the body, it undergoes a change neurologically.
It goes into survival mode.
Sometimes it just overreacts.
This type of stress, undergone repetitively, is believed to result in subluxations.
Emotional Stress
The same survival mechanism is triggered when undergoing emotional stress. The body goes into a state where it perceives danger or immense discomfort resulting in the release of a chemical known as cortisol. Cortisol prepares the body for fight or flight.
The body expects possible trauma and prepares…
The blood thickens in case we bleed. Sugar is released and made ready to burn as fuel. Some non-essential functions shut down including parts of the cortex involved in clear thinking even digestion is put on hold. When we are chronically in this state, the health implications are far and wide affecting many different body systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Chiropractors only reduce subluxations, or do they do any other therapy?
Most chiropractors have extensive training in other modalities. Dr Nothling studied in the USA where it is required to also pass a physiotherapy section of the National Board examinations. They are trained in physiotherapeutic approaches used in rehabilitation and treatment using ultrasound, electrical therapy, exercise therapy, etc.
DR Nothling is also trained in dry needling, medical acupuncture, myofascial release and massage. He also uses Grastin soft tissue technique which is designed for treating muscle, tendon and ligament injury.
Do Chiropractors only treat the spine?
No, Chiropractors treat shoulders, hips, feet, knees, hands, wrists, elbows along with muscle aches and pains.