The term subluxation means "minor misalignment," however the affects on the human body, as a result of a spinal misalignment, can be far from minor. In the simplest of terms, a misalignment is when one or more vertebrae (bones in your spine) either move out of line, or loose their ability to function properly, and creates a pressure on, or irritation to, spinal nerves. Spinal nerves are the nerves that come out from the vertebrae in your spine. Spinal dysfunction, irritating the nerves, can cause interference with the signals traveling through them - leading to numerous health related problems.

Chiropractic doctors commonly recognizefive categories of components present in the Vertebral Subluxation Complex (VSC), which is also known as Vertebral Segmental Dysfunction.  

• Spinal Kinesiopathology - is where the bones of the spine become stuck, don't move enough, or move too much.
• Neuropathophysiology (abnormal nervous system function) - nerves can become overexcited and hyperactive. Due to the way the spine is engineered, abnormal spinal function can irritate, pinch, rub or choke the delicate tissue of the spinal cord and nerve roots.
• Myopathology (Abnormal Muscle Function) - is when over-developed muscles on one side of the spine cause individual vertebrae to rotate and lose proper function. When muscle function declines, muscles that support the spine respond in different ways, the spine can weaken or even atrophy.
• Histiopathology (Abnormal soft tissue function) - inflammation and swelling due to injured disc accompany the accumulation of blood and lymph - causing a rise in temperature.
• Pathophysiology - when there is a trauma to a joint, one of the ways your body responds is the stabilization of the area by forming new bone! With time, calcium deposits build up, eventually as abnormal bony growth. This arthritic 'splinting' of bones is nature's attempt to stabilize the injured joint.

Due to the intricacies of the nervous system, more research is being conducted in the areas of hormonal involvement, aging, immune system response, even genetic consequences. The Vertebra Segmental Dysfunction Complex may be one of the most regular yetoverlooked source of health problems.

Chiropractic doctors are trained in identifying and treating spinal biomechanical dysfunction.  This is done through treatment specifically designed to restore, or improve function, which can employ specific treatment to the spine, exercise, lifestyle changes and diet.  In some instances, the chiropractic doctor may use natural medicines, as well as over the counter medicines, to assist in the healing process.  Chiropractic doctors are the only professionals who undergo years of training to be the experts at correcting this type spinal health problem.