Dr. Rick's Health Tip of the Month

February 2000

Get Your Spine Checked for the Vertebral Subluxation Complex

By Rick Allen, DC

What is the vertebral subluxation complex? What are three basic causes of subluxations? What are the effects of subluxations? Why should I be checked for a subluxation by a chiropractor?

The vertebral subluxation complex (VSC) explains abnormal spinal function. You might think of early VSC as the cause of spinal decay, much like a small cavity sets the stage for dental decay. The vertebral subluxation complex is the underlying cause of many health problems and is recognized by its five component parts:

• Spinal Kinesiopathology - abnormal motion or position of spinal bones
• Neuropathophysiology - abnormal nervous system function
• Myopathology - abnormal muscle function
• Histopathology - abnormal soft tissue function
• Pathophysiology - abnormal function of the spine and body.

There are three basic causes of subluxations:

• Physical trauma, like a car accident, the birth process, slipping and falling, or sitting for long periods of time.
• Emotional stress, such as worry, fear or anger.
• Environmental toxins, pollution, chemical imbalances, alcohol and drugs.

Which one or combination of these three do you think may have caused subluxations in your spine?

Because the VSC affects the function of your nervous system, it affects every cell, tissue, organ and system of your body. You may say that "my neck is stiff" or "my back is out," thinking only of the function of muscles and bones. In reality, nervous system impairment can increase your susceptibility to disease and ill health. Clearly, the VSC may be one of the most common, yet overlooked sources of health problems.

The detection, reduction, and prevention of the VSC is the unique domain of the Doctor of Chiropractic. If you suspect that you, or someone you know, may be suffering from subluxation, contact a chiropractor near you. If you are in the greater Portland, Oregon metropolitan area, I would be happy to examine your spine and, if subluxations are present, outline a treatment plan.

Dr. Rick Allen is a chiropractor, massage therapist and dance student in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Rick welcomes your questions and suggestions for future articles. However, he cannot make specific diagnoses or treatment recommendations unless you visit him in person. He can be reached by phone: 503-257-1324, mail: 221 NE 78th Avenue, Portland, OR 97213, e-mail or World Wide Web: www.CascadeWellnessClinic.com

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