Degeneration

What is Subluxation Degeneration?

Subluxation degeneration is how the body responds to improperly functioning spinal joints. With early detection, appropriate chiropractic care has been shown to slow, stop, or even reverse the early stages of this process. Ask your doctor to design a program of preventive care for you.

Usually subluxation degeneration is seen as the misalignment and malfunction of the spine. Normal spinal motion, curves, and disc spacing are altered. Because the body is so adaptable, this early phase can exist without the warning of pain or other symptoms. If left uncorrected, the degeneration continues.

Recognized on X-ray views of the spine by visible bone spurs and rough edges of the vertebrae. Soft tissues, such as discs and ligaments, degenerate from the lack of normal joint movement. Again, pain or other symptoms may not be present.

A lifetime of neglect may cause the eventual fusion of the malfunctioning joints. Atrophy, permanent nerve damage, and soft tissue degeneration are prevalent. Reduced mobility and impaired nervous system function can diminish one's quality of life.

Subluxation degeneration is a process.

Regardless of a person's age, when spinal damage goes uncorrected, the body deposits calcium on the surface of adjacent bones that aren't moving properly.

If neglected long enough, this splinting effect can result in complete fusion. This worsening process is called subluxation degeneration and can occur thoughout the spine. Researchers recognize several phases of spinal decay (see figures).