What Is Vertebral Subluxation?
“Vertebral subluxation is the condition of a vertebra that has lost its proper juxtaposition with the one above or the one below, or both; to an extent less than a luxation; which impinges nerves and interferes with the transmission of mental impulses.”
Chiropractic is a distinct health care profession built on the philosophy, science, and art of correcting vertebral subluxation. Let’s break down this definition into two essential components:
1. Loss of Proper Position (Juxtaposition)
The spine is made up of 24 vertebrae stacked and stabilized by ligaments and muscles, designed to provide both protection and movement. These vertebrae are arranged to ensure just the right amount of mobility while still protecting the spinal cord.
Subluxation occurs when a vertebra shifts out of its normal alignment—but not to the degree of full dislocation (luxation). This misalignment alone isn’t what makes it problematic—it’s what happens next that matters most.
2. Nerve Interference and Impaired Mental Impulses
The primary concern of vertebral subluxation is how it impacts the neurological system. Chiropractors recognize that mental impulses—electrical nerve messages—are the body’s way of coordinating function. These impulses carry vital information from the brain through the spine to every cell, tissue, and organ.
Mental impulses must travel efficiently. The nerves function like insulated electrical cables, designed to transmit messages at speeds up to 275 mph. If tension builds in the spine due to misalignment, the impulse can be altered, weakened, or misdirected.
Think of it like tuning a guitar string too tight—it changes the vibration, which changes the sound. Similarly, too much tension along the nerve pathway can distort the signal.
Why This Matters
Your body is constantly sending and receiving trillions of messages every second to maintain balance and health. This process is governed by your body’s innate intelligence—its inherent recuperative power. For optimal performance, these mental impulses must remain free of interference.
Being subluxation-free allows your body to function at its highest potential, coordinating healing, adaptation, and well-being without disruption.
