The neglected muscular system: its role in the pathogenesis of the subluxation complex

Article Abstract:

Chiropractic practice is often focused on the bones and joints of the body without adequate consideration that these structures are a part of the greater musculoskeletal system. Clearly, the vertebral joints operate in concert with the other components of the musculoskeletal system, which is required for locomotion. Early in the history of chiropractic, misaligned vertebrae were considered the usual cause of neurologic pathology; therapeutic realignment of the vertebrae would result in a cure. Current chiropractic thought is that dysfunctional joints and associated movements underlie much neurologic disease; therapy is now designed to improve the movement of vertebral joints. Thus the chiropractic notion of misaligned or ''subluxed'' vertebrae has evolved to a concept of a ''subluxation complex''. Neurological difficulties now require an examination of spinal restriction coupled with an analysis of inflammation, biochemical abnormalities, and disturbances of muscular functioning. The nervous system is involved in the mediation of the function of various body parts, and a ''harmonious'' function of the nervous system is required for health. The original chiropractic concept of specific nerve compression as the underlying cause of many diseases has become a theory of disturbed reflex receptors in a dysfunctional tissue region. This indicates that in addition to spinal joints being involved in the disease process, dysfunctional muscle groups can also be a potential source of disease (because of distorted sensory input into the central nervous system). Similarly, the role of the muscular system in the production of the subluxation syndrome is frequently disregarded by many chiropractors. Any of four specific nerve receptors which monitor muscle, tendon, mechanical deformation, and joint conditions may be involved in such sensory input. Seven areas of structural muscular dysfunction are specifically identified and explained. It is vitally important that the muscular etiology of dysfunction be assessed and included in the diagnostic approach of the chiropractor. While the subluxation complex is an essential element in chiropractic thought, it is important that the entire locomotive system be included in the chiropractic examination process, which in turn will reduce the number of patients who fail to be helped by chiropractic therapy. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

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Comparing symmetry

Article Abstract:

One of the most fundamental issues of chiropractic medicine is the assessment of the musculoskeletal effects of muscle imbalance, and the design of therapeutic interventions to achieve balance. Muscle imbalance starts with the condition of joint ligaments and their altered tension. The longer that ligaments are placed under biomechanical forces which exceed the normal range, the greater is their loss of strength and inherent elastic quality. Ligamentous imbalance leads to pathology at the joint, which in turn may lead to erosion of joint structures. Similarly, changes in the joint capsule, such as laxity, can lead to the generation of disturbed neurologic functioning including changes of joint sense or proprioception, which may produce pain and spasm. Ligamentous laxity results from many conditions including injury, changes in the skeleton, and muscle imbalance. One area of interest is the ratio of the muscular strength of the opposing muscles that work the knee (quadricept to hamstring ratio), and its relationship to knee injury. One recent research study demonstrated a high correlation between a ratio below 60 percent and knee injuries in athletes. Other sports-related injuries can also be linked to similar muscular imbalances across joints. The causes of such muscular imbalances are numerous, and in some cases come from unequal muscular work-outs or athletic efforts made by the individual during practice and competition. Genetic make-up is also involved in such imbalances. Testing for imbalance is best done on a sophisticated instrument (Cybex) which isolates muscle activity and records muscle strength; however, simpler techniques (isometric testing) can also be used effectively to make this diagnosis. Treatment is often difficult and may require ingenuity. Understanding that symmetry of the body is important places chiropractic physicians in a good position to diagnose and treat such problems. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

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Chiropractic management of bronchial asthma: a literature review

Article Abstract:

Asthma, from the Greek ''I grasp for breath'', has been recognized for thousands of years. Even today, traditional medicine has only had some recent success in the management of acute asthma, and has little to offer for relieving the chronic problem. The osteopathic and chiropractic literature suggests that these disciplines have had some limited success in the treatment of asthmatics, although one recent trial failed to show that chiropractic adjustments were effective. This paper reviews the chiropractic protocol for the examination and treatment of a patient with asthma. A thorough patient and family history, including age of onset, timing and frequency of attacks, and medication used, is taken. Examination of the chest and abdomen is essential, and some recommend that careful review of the liver, pancreas, kidneys and intestines be included because they are frequently involved in the disease process. Although the history and physical examination are usually sufficient to make a diagnosis of asthma, various laboratory tests including blood tests, pulmonary function tests, and allergy tests may be helpful. Chiropractic therapy is usually begun on a three-times-a-week basis and reduced to twice or once a week with progress. Five chiropractic manipulations are usually required before the patient begins to note some improvement. Manipulations are usually focused on the upper cervical (neck) vertebrae. Manipulation of the abdomen, diaphragm and ribs may also be included. Nutritional therapies including supplementation with vitamins B, C and E are also frequently used. In addition, the patient is instructed to get adequate rest; avoid wheat, milk, eggs, and cheese; maintain elimination; drink sufficient fluids; and participate in breathing exercises. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Care and treatment, Asthma

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