Understanding Subluxation Degeneration

On these pages, you'll learn more about subluxation degeneration. While this general information is accurate, be aware that every person is dynamic and individual. People move through the phases in different ways and heal at different rates. However, it is certain that the further along your spine may be with subluxation degeneration, the more strenuous and time consuming your road to improvement will be. For this reason it is advisable to give it your attention early to stop and prevent further degeneration. If you're not under chiropractic care yet, the best time to start is now.

What is Subluxation Degeneration?

A subluxation is a partial dislocation of a joint (a complete dislocation is a luxation). The photo shows an example. When a subluxation occurs, it causes nerve interference in the area of the body affected by those nerves, along with changes to the body's structure. These changes worsen over time if not corrected, a condition known as "subluxation degeneration." By examining the type and degree of degeneration, it is possible to estimate how long the damaging subluxations have been present. This information is useful in estimating the time and effort needed for correction.

Near Normal

This is an X-ray side view of the neck of a "near normal" spine. Compare this spine with the ones below on this page. Notice the normal forward curve of the neck. This curve helps absorb shock. Notice how each of the disc spaces between C2 (second bone in neck) and C7 are thick and even. Also notice how the front portions (right on the X-ray) of each of the vertebrae (called the "body" of the vertebrae) are essentially square with clear and well defined borders.

This depicts what is normal for the vertebrae in the neck. Normal vertebrae in other parts of the spine have similar characteristics.

Phase One

Phase One subluxation degeneration is seen in subluxations that have been present for up to twenty years. This phase is characterized by a loss or change in the normal curve of the spine. In the illustration, you can see that the normal forward (lordotic) curve is lost. This spine even has developed a reverse curve in the neck. The disc spaces have begun to exhibit a slight change in shape.

One good point is that the bodies of each of the vertebrae (the square part in front) still exhibit clean clear borders. Segmental motion may be abnormal but overall motion is probably not affected. Chiropractic reconstructive care for Phase One subluxation degeneration can take from 6 to 18 months. More than 80% of people with Phase One have no pain. Therefore, many do not know correction is needed. If left uncorrected, Phase One continues to progress with time until it eventually reaches the next phase.

Phase Two

Phase Two subluxation degeneration is normally seen in subluxations that have been present between 20 and 40 years. Like Phase One, this phase includes a loss of normal curvature and position as well as an alteration in segmental motion. In addition, spines with Phase Two subluxation degeneration often show a reduction in the patient's range of motion in that area.

X-rays of a Phase Two show calcium changes or buildup at certain levels of the spine. These changes are called by many names, including spurs and arthritis. Disc spaces between the affected vertebrae are noticeably narrower and may appear to be flattening out. Although most people with Phase Two subluxation degeneration may not exhibit any symptoms, some may start to feel stiff or achy. Chiropractic reconstructive care for patients in Phase Two ranges from 1.5 years to 2.5 years. Again, if Phase Two is left uncorrected, it slowly advances to the next phase.

Phase Three

Phase Three Subluxation Degeneration is caused by subluxations that have been uncorrected for between 40 and 65 years. This phase has all of the attributes of the previous phases, only more pronounced. The curvatures are abnormal, the disc spaces are vastly decreased and changed. Calcium buildup on the spine is abundant in this phase.

Normally, people in Phase Three have a restricted range of motion and probably exhibit symptoms of some kind. In Phase Three the vertebrae show obvious changes and mutations in shape. Projections made of calcium, sometimes referred to as spurs or lipping, can be readily seen on an X-ray. Chiropractic reconstructive care for patients in Phase Three ranges from 2.5 years to 3.5 years. This does not mean that at the end of this time any or all of the calcium changes will be gone. In many instances the body adapts to the presence of the calcium and positive changes can only be measured from a functional standpoint. As before, if Phase Three subluxation degeneration is left unchecked it slowly advances onward into the next phase.

Phase Four

Phase Four subluxation degeneration is seen with subluxations that have been uncorrected for over sixty five years. Phase Four is a serious condition that will negatively affect the patients longevity and quality of life. The massive amount of neurological damage caused by years of subluxation are probably taking a serious toll on this person's overall wellbeing.

X-rays in Phase Four show serious severe structural alterations. Vertebrae exhibit massive calcium changes, disc spaces appear blurred, and the bones themselves appear fused. In this scenario the patient will have a severe restriction of motion in addition to a number of other health issues. Reconstruction may not be possible in Phase Four, but care can be directed to some reduction in subluxation with the goal of improvement in the quality of life remaining.

Patients in Phase Four subluxation degeneration have a serious situation both structurally and neurologically, but they are certainly not beyond hope. Many patients in Phase Four report significant improvements in symptoms, conditions, mobility and quality of life.

There is always cause for hope and possibility for improvement. Call Dr. Burns Today at (303) 694-9759 to schedule an appointment for assessment. You'll be glad you did.