The Term "Subluxation"

What is a subluxation?

The term subluxation is already over one hundred years old. Attempts to redifine¹ the word are constantly being made. Here is our explanation of subluxation, in layman's terms:

Vertebrae can slip out of their natural position making their location relative to the vertebrae above and below them no longer ideal. Given that nerves branch out laterally from the spinal column – out of the openings between vertebrae – a displacement of bone naturally leads to an irritated spinal nerve. The displacement of bone exerts pressure, directly or indirectly, on the spinal cord or the spinal cord membrane. Thus, the central nervous system is affected.

How does a subluxation occur?

The body's interaction with its environment can cause a subluxation. It's easy to understand that trauma (accidents or excessive force) is a major cause of subluxations. Subluxations can even occur at birth, mainly in the cervical spine.

In modern everyday life, physical and mental strains also play a role. Sitting all day, often with bad posture, or rigidly fixated on a computer screen for hours can cause a subluxation. Lack of exercise and mental stress are other possible causes.

What kind of impact can a subluxation have?

There is evidence to suggest that a segmental dysfunction in the nervous system can also impact the organs that are supplied by the affected nerves². Additionally, local ailments such as back pain or limited mobility appear almost regularly.